# Riga International Airport (RIX) > Riga, LV · 11 km (7 mi) west of central Riga Web: https://airport.flights/airport/rix JSON: https://airport.flights/api/airport/rix.json ## Facts - **IATA**: RIX - **ICAO**: EVRA - **Timezone**: Europe/Riga - **Runways**: 2 - **Terminals**: 1 - **Passengers**: 7.4M/yr - **Hub for**: airBaltic - **Official site**: https://www.riga-airport.com ## Overview ## Welcome Riga International Airport (RIX) is not your typical hub; it thrives on its compactness rather than its scale. Nestled just 11 km west of central Riga, this airport is the largest in the Baltic States. What makes RIX unique is its singular terminal setup, mixing utility with a touch of local charm, serving as Latvia’s main aviation gateway. Unlike sprawling airport complexes, Riga's only terminal allows travelers to navigate a straightforward, smaller space without sacrificing essential services. Public-side services, such as eateries, surprisingly make it a destination even for those just making a stopover or greeting new arrivals. ## At a glance Handling approximately 7.4 million passengers annually, RIX is a hub for airBaltic and services airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air. With two runways and 20 gates, it efficiently manages traffic through its single-terminal layout. While the terminal’s footprint may not host world-spanning dining and shopping options, its strategic services cater efficiently to the needs of travelers. ## Terminals & layout RIX functions with a single well-organized terminal housing all airline services, check-in counters, and gates within one structure. This means travelers benefit from shorter distances between services, easing the transfer process. Known operators like airBaltic make the process smooth from check-in to boarding, minimizing wait times. Importantly, the public-side area hosts three eateries, providing spots beyond the typical waiting zones in other similar-sized terminals. ## Getting to and from the city Located 11 km from Riga's city center, RIX ensures simple access through various means. Licensed taxis and Bolt rideshare apps provide flexible, quick transfers with fares visible on car doors or in-app. If planning ahead, prepaid taxi vouchers are available at a fixed rate of €33.50. The proximity keeps taxi rides brief and affordable, making rideshare a solid default unless carrying substantial luggage. Public transport, though not extensive, complements these options effectively for everyday schedules. ## Traveller essentials While larger airports offer broader choices, RIX focuses on essentials efficiently. An on-site outpatient clinic is a significant feature for those needing medical attention before a flight. The airport's operational map details parking arrangements and electric-car charging slots, highlighting the ease of access for diverse traveler needs. There’s also a carsharing zone, enhancing the range of mobility solutions at the visitor’s disposal. ## Dining & shopping highlights For dining, RIX keeps it simple with three eateries accessible before security, catering to visitors waiting landside for flights or arrivals, which exceeds expectations for an airport of its size. The focus remains practical over luxurious, with food outlets being more about convenience and satisfaction over variety. Solutions for shopping are minimal, aligning with the airport’s compact, no-fuss ethos. ## Lounges Though choices are limited, the VIP lounge at RIX offers an escape for those seeking tranquility or privacy. This recently refurbished space welcomes not only premium passengers, but also guests holding certain credit cards or those willing to avail paid entry. While it’s a standout premium option, its accessibility widens, serving more than just the elite traveler demographic. ## Insider tips - **Insider:** Arrive early or meet travelers at the public-side eateries; they surpass typical single-terminal anticipation zones but arrive prepared as options are limited. - **Quiet:** For a calmer wait, head to the VIP lounge. It's available to fee-paying guests and those with the right card privileges, providing a respite from busier areas. - **Money:** Prepaid taxi vouchers cost €33.50 and offer a predictable fare structure. Consider them for seamless city commutes. - **Time:** The airport's single-terminal design means less walking, but planning whether you'll need public eateries or specific lounge access can save time at arrival. - **Local:** Situated close to central Riga, the short taxi rides provide a straightforward journey, leveraging the airport's proximity to the city. - **Avoid:** Peak times can mean concentrated queues due to the compact layout. Arrive with extra time to navigate check-in and security smoothly. - **Quiet:** The on-site VIP lounge offers peace away from the hustle. Prioritize this if you value tranquility for work or relaxation pre-flight. ## Terminals (1) - **1** — 20 gates · airBaltic, Ryanair, Wizz Air, Norwegian Air Shuttle Compact terminal allows easy navigation on foot. ## Ground transport (5) - **Bolt** — Rideshare · Varies · Displayed in the app Pick-up point is in the short-term parking P1. - **Prepaid Taxi Voucher** — Taxi · €33.50 Available at the Visitor Center in the arrivals hall. - **Licensed Taxis** — Taxi · Varies · Tariffs displayed on vehicle doors Available at the airport terminal exit. - **Licensed Airport Taxis** — Taxi · Varies by operator Available at the airport's carriageway. - **Pre-paid Taxi Vouchers** — Taxi · 33.50 euros Available for purchase at the Visitor Center. ## Insider tips - _Insider_: Arrive early or meet travelers at the public-side eateries; they surpass typical single-terminal anticipation zones but arrive prepared as options are limited. - _Quiet_: For a calmer wait, head to the VIP lounge. It's available to fee-paying guests and those with the right card privileges, providing a respite from busier areas. - _Money_: Prepaid taxi vouchers cost €33.50 and offer a predictable fare structure. Consider them for seamless city commutes. - _Time_: The airport's single-terminal design means less walking, but planning whether you'll need public eateries or specific lounge access can save time at arrival. - _Local_: Situated close to central Riga, the short taxi rides provide a straightforward journey, leveraging the airport's proximity to the city. - _Avoid_: Peak times can mean concentrated queues due to the compact layout. Arrive with extra time to navigate check-in and security smoothly. - _Quiet_: The on-site VIP lounge offers peace away from the hustle. Prioritize this if you value tranquility for work or relaxation pre-flight.