After the reconstruction of Riga International Airport, which will cost about LVL 81 million, the airport's infrastructure will be vastly improved and capacity will be increased, as the airport will be able to serve even more planes. At the same time, during times of inclement weather, there will be less frequent situations where planes have to be rerouted to other airports, according to a press conference today acquainting the public with the construction job at the airport.
Transport Minister Anrijs Matiss emphasized that this is an important stage in the airport's reconstruction. It ensures the possibility of the airport's expansion and safer services during times of heavy snow and poor visibility. At the same time, planes will be able to maneuver faster on the runway, which will lessen the time it takes for take off. At the same time, the reconstruction will bring about an increase in number of flights.
Meanwhile, Riga International Airport Chairman Aldis Murnieks informed that after the completion of the project, the airport will be able to service 45 planes per hour, compared to the current capacity of 30 planes per hour. At the same time, he added that the airport will still not be able to receive ''Airbus - 380'' planes, but that this is not the goal of the project. The main thing, according to Murnieks, will be improved safety and capacity, as the airport will be able to handle all other types of airplanes.
Both Matiss and Murnieks admitted that relations and the discussion atmosphere with ''airBaltic'' has improved and become more constructive. They point out that this is very important, taking into account that the airline has a 63 percent market share at the airport. Both also emphasized that the airport would be completely different without ''airBaltic'', adding that no other airline would be capable of replacing it, as foreign airline's wish to have their headquarters in their respective countries.
In order to attract new airlines and open new destinations, talks with potential clients are taking place constantly. There has been increased interest from foreign airlines after the government's decision on discounts for new airlines wishing to begin operating at the airport, as well as those opening new routes. This will also allow airlines to offer their passengers more competitive prices.
The airport's reconstruction project is scheduled to be completed by mid-2015.
Development of the infrastructure of the Riga Airport is co-financed by the European Union. The total cost of the project amounts to LVL 81 million. The project is co-financed from the Cohesion Fund in the amount of LVL 41,114,034 and the state budget in the amount of LVL 8,255,847. The remaining funding is furnished by the airport.
The aim of the project is to improve air traffic security standards, increase the airport's capacity, as well as improve environmental conditions.
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