SmartLynx Airlines Latvia has announced it is shutting down, leaving staff claiming they have gone unpaid and some reporting they have been stranded overseas following the carrier’s bankruptcy filing.
In a statement, the airline said: “Today, we are sharing news that is difficult for all of us at SmartLynx Airlines. As of today, we will be ceasing our commercial operations.
“This decision comes after a thorough assessment of our situation and long-term outlook, and it was not taken lightly. We started as a small Latvian airline with big dreams, and over 33 years grew into an international family known for resilience, adaptability, and a spirit that never backed down.
“SmartLynx has always been built by its people – passionate professionals from all corners of the world who took on every challenge with determination.
“Together, we filled the last three decades with moments that won’t be forgotten: days and nights in the skies, flights all over the world, new bases opening, new teams forming, and lots of special stories.
“These moments, created by thousands of dedicated colleagues over three decades, are the true legacy of SmartLynx. To our teams, partners, clients, and friends – thank you.
“Thank you for believing in us, flying with us, and growing with us. Your trust and support have meant everything. SmartLynx may be closing its operations, but the spirit we built together will always fly.”
Employees have taken to social media alleging they have not received their salaries for weeks. Several crew members say they were left in Vietnam without repatriation after the airline ceased operations, forcing some to fund their own journeys home.
The collapse follows a turbulent month for the ACMI and charter specialist:
-
22 October 2025: ASG Group, owned by Lithuanian businessman Gediminas Žiemelis, sold SmartLynx Airlines Latvia.
-
28 October 2025: The airline filed for creditor protection.
-
24 November 2025: The company confirmed it would shut down operations entirely.
According to publicly available information, SmartLynx Latvia leaves behind an estimated €240 million in total debt and around €500,000 in unpaid taxes owed to the Latvian state.