Key Takeaways
• airBaltic launched direct Vilnius-Prague flights May 22, 2025, operating twice weekly until September 27, 2025.
• The Airbus A220-300 seats 148 passengers, offering eco-friendly, 1 hour 45 minutes nonstop flights from €59.
• About 20,000 passengers annually benefit from restored direct connection, saving time and reducing travel costs.
On May 22, 2025, airBaltic officially launched direct, nonstop flights between Vilnius, Lithuania 🇱🇹, and Prague, Czech Republic 🇨🇿, restoring a long-missing link between these two European capitals. This new route, operated with the modern Airbus A220-300, marks a significant development for travelers, businesses, and the broader region. The service is scheduled as a summer seasonal route, running twice weekly on Thursdays and Saturdays until September 27, 2025. The launch is part of airBaltic’s ongoing strategy to strengthen its Central European presence and improve regional connectivity.
Why the Vilnius-Prague Route Matters
For more than a decade, there was no direct air connection between Vilnius and Prague. Travelers had to rely on connecting flights, often facing longer travel times, higher costs, and less convenience. According to airBaltic, about 20,000 passengers each year previously depended on these less direct options. The new direct service not only saves time but also makes travel more affordable and accessible for both leisure and business travelers.
Mantas Vrubliauskas, airBaltic’s Vice President of Network Management, highlighted the importance of this new route: “The launch of direct flights between Vilnius and Prague restores a long-unserved route, making travel significantly easier for the approximately 20,000 passengers annually who previously relied on connecting flights.” This move is expected to benefit a wide range of stakeholders, from tourists and businesspeople to local economies and airports.
Key Details of the New Service
Here’s what travelers need to know about the new airBaltic Vilnius-Prague flights:
- Route: Vilnius Airport (VNO) – Prague Airport (PRG)
- Frequency: Twice weekly (Thursdays and Saturdays)
- Season: May 22, 2025 – September 27, 2025
- Aircraft: Airbus A220-300, seating 148 passengers
- Flight Duration: About 1 hour and 45 minutes
– Fares: One-way economy fares start from €59 (as of recent searches) - Booking: Available through airBaltic’s official website and partner travel agencies
This direct route is one of 16 summer destinations now offered by airBaltic from Vilnius, reflecting the airline’s commitment to expanding its Lithuanian network.
How to Book and Travel: Step-by-Step Guide
Booking a seat on the new Vilnius-Prague route is straightforward. Here’s a simple step-by-step process for travelers:
- Search and Book: Visit airBaltic’s official website or use a trusted travel agency to search for flights between Vilnius and Prague.
- Select Dates: Choose from available flights on Thursdays and Saturdays between May 22 and September 27, 2025.
- Choose Fare: Pick between Economy or Business Class. Business Class offers premium seating, curated meals, and complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi.
- Complete Booking: Enter passenger details, select any additional services (like checked baggage or seat selection), and pay for your ticket.
- Check-in: Use airBaltic’s online check-in service via their website or mobile app.
- Travel: Arrive at the airport, check in your luggage if needed, and board the Airbus A220-300 for a direct, comfortable journey.
Tip: Booking early can help secure the lowest fares, especially during the busy summer season.
The Aircraft: Airbus A220-300
The Airbus A220-300 is a modern, fuel-efficient aircraft designed for short and medium-haul flights. It seats 148 passengers and is known for its quiet engines, spacious cabin, and large windows. The aircraft’s advanced technology helps reduce fuel consumption and emissions, supporting airBaltic’s commitment to sustainability.
- Comfort: Wider seats and more legroom compared to older models
- Efficiency: Lower fuel use and fewer emissions
- Onboard Experience: Quiet cabin, large overhead bins, and modern lighting
Using the Airbus A220-300 for the Vilnius-Prague flights not only improves passenger comfort but also aligns with the European Union’s environmental goals for greener air travel.
Who Benefits from the New Route?
Passengers
The most immediate benefit goes to travelers. With the new direct flights, passengers can:
- Save Time: Avoid long layovers and connecting flights
- Lower Costs: Direct flights often mean cheaper total fares
- Greater Convenience: More predictable schedules and less travel stress
For example, a Lithuanian student studying in Prague can now fly home for the weekend without spending hours in transit. Similarly, Czech business travelers can attend meetings in Vilnius and return the same day.
Airports
Both Vilnius and Prague airports expect to see increased passenger numbers and improved international profiles. Jaroslav Filip, Director of Air Traffic at Prague Airport, noted the significance of restoring this direct connection after a decade. Prague Airport anticipates nearly 15,000 passengers will use the new route in its first year.
Regional Economies
Local businesses, hotels, and tourism operators in both Lithuania and the Czech Republic are likely to benefit from increased visitor numbers. The direct link makes it easier for tourists to explore both countries and for companies to build cross-border partnerships.
Tourism and Business
Tourism boards in both countries expect the new route to boost visitor flows and support cultural exchange. Business travelers will find it easier to attend meetings, conferences, and trade events, strengthening economic ties between the two capitals.
Policy and Regional Impact
The launch of the Vilnius-Prague flights supports the European Commission’s Transport Strategy, which aims to improve connections between EU capitals using sustainable and modern transport solutions. By offering a direct, fuel-efficient service, airBaltic is helping to meet these goals.
- Regional Connectivity: Easier travel between Lithuania and the Czech Republic
- Sustainability: Lower emissions thanks to the Airbus A220-300
- Economic Growth: More business and tourism activity in both countries
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, direct air links like this one are crucial for supporting the free movement of people and goods within the European Union, making it easier for citizens to work, study, and travel across borders.
Historical Background: A Decade Without Direct Flights
The last direct connection between Vilnius and Prague was discontinued over ten years ago. Since then, travelers have had to rely on connecting flights, often through major hubs like Warsaw, Frankfurt, or Vienna. This added hours to travel times and increased costs.
airBaltic has been a key player in Lithuania’s aviation sector for over 20 years. The airline’s decision to restore the Vilnius-Prague route is part of a broader expansion, with 16 direct summer routes now offered from Vilnius. This reflects growing demand for direct connections between Central and Eastern Europe.
Official Statements and Stakeholder Perspectives
airBaltic
Mantas Vrubliauskas, VP Network Management, emphasized the route’s importance for both leisure and business travel, as well as its contribution to regional tourism and economic growth. He pointed out that the new service makes travel much easier for the thousands of passengers who previously had no direct option.
Thomas Ramdahl, Senior Vice President at airBaltic, expressed gratitude for the partnership with Prague Airport and excitement about offering more convenient travel options for Czech passengers.
Prague Airport
Jaroslav Filip, Director of Air Traffic, highlighted the significance of restoring this direct connection after a decade, noting the anticipated passenger numbers and the value for Czech travelers.
Tourism Boards and Local Businesses
Regional tourism authorities expect increased visitor flows and easier access for both business and leisure travelers, supporting broader economic and cultural objectives.
Booking Scenarios: Examples for Travelers
Scenario 1: Lithuanian Family Vacation
A family in Vilnius wants to visit Prague for a summer holiday. With the new direct flights, they can book tickets for a Thursday departure, spend a long weekend exploring Prague’s historic sites, and return on Saturday. The direct flight means less time in airports and more time enjoying their trip.
Scenario 2: Czech Business Traveler
A business executive in Prague needs to attend a conference in Vilnius. With the new airBaltic service, she can fly out Thursday morning, attend meetings, and return home Saturday, all without the hassle of connecting flights.
Scenario 3: Student Exchange
A university student from Lithuania is studying in Prague for a semester. The direct flight allows him to visit family during the summer break, making the journey faster and more affordable.
Environmental Considerations
The use of the Airbus A220-300 for this route is a deliberate choice to support environmental goals. The aircraft is known for its fuel efficiency and lower emissions compared to older models. This aligns with the European Union’s push for greener transportation and helps airBaltic reduce its carbon footprint.
- Lower Emissions: The A220-300 uses less fuel per passenger
- Modern Technology: Advanced engines and lightweight materials
- Sustainability: Supports EU climate targets for the aviation sector
Future Outlook: What’s Next for airBaltic and the Route?
Potential for Extension
While the current schedule is seasonal, running from May to September 2025, strong demand could lead to an extension or increased frequency in future seasons. Both airBaltic and Prague Airport will monitor passenger numbers and feedback to decide on future plans.
Fleet Naming Controversy
airBaltic had planned to name its Airbus A220-300 fleet after cities, including the Estonian village of Kunda. This sparked viral interest in the Czech Republic, but the plan has been delayed, with no confirmed timeline for applying the city decals.
Further Expansion
airBaltic continues to evaluate new routes and increased frequencies based on market demand and strategic priorities. The airline’s growing network from Vilnius demonstrates its commitment to serving the needs of Lithuanian travelers and connecting the Baltic region with the rest of Europe.
Practical Guidance for Travelers
- Book Early: Summer is a busy travel season, so secure your tickets as soon as possible.
- Check Visa Requirements: While Lithuania and the Czech Republic are both in the Schengen Area, travelers from outside the EU should review official Schengen visa requirements.
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance for added peace of mind.
- Airport Information: For details on airport facilities, visit Vilnius Airport and Prague Airport.
Official Resources
- airBaltic Official Website: www.airbaltic.com
- Prague Airport: www.prg.aero
- Vilnius Airport: www.vno.lt
- Schengen Visa Information: European Commission – Schengen Visa
For booking, schedules, and customer service, visit airBaltic’s website or contact their customer support team.
Conclusion: A Win for Travelers and the Region
The launch of direct airBaltic flights between Vilnius and Prague is more than just a new travel option—it’s a boost for regional connectivity, economic growth, and sustainable aviation. By restoring a long-missing link, airBaltic is making it easier for thousands of people to travel, do business, and explore new cultures. With affordable fares, a modern aircraft, and strong support from both airports, the Vilnius-Prague route is set to become a popular choice for summer travelers in 2025 and beyond.
Travelers are encouraged to take advantage of this convenient new service, whether for business, leisure, or visiting family and friends. As airBaltic continues to expand its network, more direct connections like this one will help bring Europe closer together—one flight at a time.
Learn Today
airBaltic → Latvian airline operating flights in the Baltic region, connecting Lithuania and Central Europe.
Airbus A220-300 → Modern, fuel-efficient aircraft seating 148 passengers, designed for short to medium-haul flights.
Direct Flight → A flight between two destinations without intermediate stops or layovers.
Seasonal Route → An airline route operating during specific months, often summer or winter, based on demand.
Schengen Area → A zone of 26 European countries allowing free movement without passport controls.
This Article in a Nutshell
airBaltic’s new direct Vilnius-Prague flights start May 22, 2025, restoring a decade-long missing link. Twice-weekly Airbus A220-300 flights improve regional connectivity, saving time and cost for 20,000 passengers yearly with eco-friendly, affordable travel options during the summer season from May to September 2025.
— By VisaVerge.com
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