Latvian airline airBaltic will introduce mandatory COVID-19 vaccination for its entire staff as of Nov. 15, 2021. As vaccination rates grow across the world, the airline sees that as the fastest way out of the pandemic.
Martin Gauss, chief executive officer of airBaltic, said, “We will go for 100% mandatory vaccination of all our staff by Nov. 15. We are proud that already 87% of our employees are vaccinated or immune against COVID-19. airBaltic has a 5-star COVID-19 safety rating, and we aim to continue to provide the safest flying experience not only for our passengers but also for our employees.”
This decision will also ensure undisrupted operations as an increasing number of countries require proof of vaccination for air crews. As of Nov. 15, if the employee is unable to present the relevant COVID-19 or recovery certificate, the staff member will be suspended from work without pay.
Overall, airBaltic currently employs 1,366 people, including 200 pilots and 342 cabin crew. airBaltic was among the first companies in Latvia to implement state-provided COVID-19 vaccination at the workplace.
