The state-of-the-art facility is set to become the largest dedicated air cargo handling centre in the Baltics. It will feature direct access to the apron, making cargo import, export, and transit processes quick and easy.
Kaspars Briškens, Minister of Transport of the Republic of Latvia, said: “The Baltic Cargo Hub marks an important milestone for Latvia's aviation sector, strengthening our position on the regional airfreight and logistics map. This state-of-the-art facility not only exemplifies our commitment to enhancing Latvia's logistics capabilities but also reinforces our strategic vision of leveraging aviation as a catalyst for economic growth and international trade.
Through initiatives like these, we are not just expanding our infrastructure but are also building bridges that connect Latvian businesses to the world, fostering innovation, and improving our nation’s competitiveness.”
Baltic Cargo Hub is designed to have full special cargo handling capabilities with dedicated temperature-controlled rooms for pharmaceuticals and perishables, premises for dangerous goods, live animals and valuable shipments. It will be equipped with cutting-edge, semi-automatic cargo handling equipment, including a mail sorter. The hub's design also features a customs checkpoint.
With an area of 6,895m2, the hub will dedicate approximately 5,000m2 to cargo handling facilities and around 2,000m2 for office spaces. The project advocates for a sustainably built environment, as verified by BREEAM certification.
In addition to construction specialist UPB Nams, the project also involved architects OZOLA & BULA, Lödige Systems, and BeCon Project.
Laila Odiņa, chairperson of the board of RIX Riga Airport, said: “Our national airline, airBaltic, is currently the largest aviation cargo and mail carrier at Riga Airport. We are confident that the new cargo handling centre will optimise and enhance cargo service processes, providing additional benefits to both the airline and its customers.”
The project is expected to take 12 months.
