Riga Aviation Forum 2026: Europe’s leading aviation decision makers to convene in Riga

Riga Aviation Forum (RAF), the largest Baltics’ flagship high‑level aviation business conference, will take place on 10 September 2026 in Riga, Latvia as a gathering point for Europe’s aviation leaders, policymakers, industry innovators, and academic experts. Since its establishment in 2016, RAF has evolved into one of the region’s most influential platforms for strategic dialogue, policy development, and cross‑sector collaboration within the aviation industry.

A strategic platform for Baltic and Nothern European aviation

RAF brings together stakeholders from across the aviation ecosystem – airlines, airports, manufacturers, regulators, technology companies, and research institutions – to examine the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of aviation in the Baltic region. The Forum provides a unique environment where Baltic aviation leaders outline long‑term development priorities, while global industry players present solutions designed to enhance operational efficiency, competitiveness, and sustainability.

Over the past decade, RAF has become a cornerstone event for the region, enabling decision‑makers to align on strategic goals, share insights, and accelerate innovation. The Forum’s discussions consistently influence regional aviation policy, infrastructure planning, and investment strategies. 

Focus on innovations,tourism, efficiency, talent acquisition and climate‑neutral aviation

The 2026 edition of RAF will place particular emphasis on the transition toward sustainable and climate‑neutral aviation. As the industry faces increasing regulatory pressure, evolving passenger expectations, and rapid technological change, RAF will highlight the solutions that can support the Baltic region’s leadership in next‑generation aviation.

Key discussion areas will include:

• Baltic Aviation Strategy – long‑term competitiveness, infrastructure development, and regional connectivity
• Sustainable Aviation –  SAF adoption, fleet modernization, and climate‑neutral pathways
• Innovation & Efficiency –  digitalization, automation, AI‑driven operations, and next‑gen air traffic management
• Industry Collaboration – strengthening partnerships across Europe and the Baltics

Voices from the Industry

Zigmars Vesfals, Chief Executive Officer at Aviation Association of Latvia, commented :“Riga Aviation Forum has become a vital platform for shaping the future of aviation in the Baltics. The Forum brings together leaders who understand that sustainable growth requires both, strategic vision and technological innovation. RAF is where these conversations begin, and where real solutions take shape.”

Another industry representative added: “The Baltics are uniquely positioned to become a testbed for climate‑neutral aviation. RAF enables us to align on priorities, share expertise, and accelerate the adoption of technologies that will define the next era of air transport.”

A comprehensive program for 2026

RAF 2026 will feature:

• High‑level keynote speeches from European aviation leaders
• Strategic panel discussions with Baltic policymakers and industry executives
• Direct video stream to Finland, a parallel video session with Tampere Aviation Forum
• Expert sessions on sustainability, digital transformation, and operational efficiency
• Academic contributions from aviation scholars and research institutions
• Networking events designed to foster collaboration and partnership development

The Forum’s agenda is curated to ensure that participants gain actionable insights, build strategic connections, and contribute to shaping the future of aviation in the Baltic region.

More information on the forum is availabe on its homepage: https://raf.aero/ 

Strengthening Latvia’s role as a regional aviation hub

By hosting RAF, Riga continues to reinforce its position as a dynamic aviation hub and a center for innovation in Northern Europe. The Forum supports Latvia’s ambition to lead regional aviation development, attract investment, and promote sustainable transformation across the sector.