British Airways’ has flown its first flight in more than 15 years from London Heathrow to Latvia which touched down at Riga International Airport (RIX). The inaugural service received a warm local welcome as it taxied to stand, with traditional drummers greeting customers as they stepped off the aircraft.

This winter, British Airways will operate three times a week between its home at Heathrow (Terminal 5) and the Latvian capital, with flights departing on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Flights are operated by a mix of A320 and A321 aircraft, with return fares available from 85 EUR/ 73 GPB or 1 EUR + 23,500 Avios, British Airways’ loyalty club currency. On board the 2 hours 50-minute flight, customers can enjoy the airline’s quintessentially British product and service, and Executive Club members can earn and redeem miles on their flights. Neil Chernoff, British Airways’ Director of Network and Alliances said: “We’re excited to further strengthen our connections between London and the Baltics and be back in Latvia after such a long time. Riga is a destination we know our customers will love, and we look forward to welcoming leisure and business travellers and those visiting family and friends on board the new service.”

Liene Freivalde, Riga Airport’s Director of Aviation Services and Business Development said: "British Airways has always been a hugely popular carrier in the Baltics, so this return is warmly welcomed. A direct connection to Heathrow Airport is a fantastic addition to Riga Airport's network and we know it’s already been very positively received by corporate customers in particular. British Airways’ flight from Riga to Heathrow opens up more destinations globally, which is a significant benefit for Baltic passengers." The airline previously operated flights to Riga from 1997 to 2007.