The Supervisory Board of airBaltic, Latvia’s leading airline, has named Erno Hildén as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Hildén will officially step into the role on December 1, 2025. He brings a wealth of expertise to guide the airline into its next chapter of growth.
Introducing New CEO Erno Hildén
Hildén, a Finnish national, boasts over 25 years of experience in the aviation and finance sectors. Until June 2025, he served as Executive Vice President and Group Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at SAS Scandinavian Airlines.
During his tenure, Hildén played a pivotal role in the airline’s transformation and successful capital-raising efforts. His leadership was instrumental in navigating complex challenges and strengthening the company’s financial foundation.
Before SAS, Hildén held senior positions at Saudi Arabian Airlines Group and Finnair Plc. Here, he served as Group CFO, Chief Operating Officer (COO), and a member of the Executive Board.
His extensive background equips him to lead airBaltic with a strong blend of strategic and operational know-how.
Leadership Perspectives
Andrejs Martinovs, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, was pleased to announce the appointment. “Following a rigorous selection process, guided by a dedicated nomination committee and an independent recruitment partner, we evaluated several highly qualified candidates.”
“Erno Hildén stood out as the ideal choice to lead airBaltic forward. His deep expertise in aviation and finance will be invaluable as we pursue our business goals and prepare for the next phase of growth. The Supervisory Board is eager to collaborate with him and the Executive Board to drive success.”
Hildén shared his excitement about the opportunity. “I’m honored by the trust the Supervisory Board has placed in me. Leading airBaltic is a privilege, and I’m committed to ensuring continuity while supporting the Executive Board.”
“Together with the team, I’ll focus on maintaining operational stability and advancing the airline’s long-term objectives. I look forward to applying my global aviation and financial experience to help airBaltic thrive in its next stage of development.”
Until Hildén assumes the CEO role, airBaltic will continue under the steady leadership of Interim CEO Pauls Cālītis, who also serves as COO and a member of the Executive Board.
After December 1, Cālītis will remain in his COO role, ensuring a smooth transition and ongoing stability for the airline.
Conclusion
airBaltic operates an extensive network, serving over 130 routes from its hubs in Riga, Tallinn, Vilnius, Tampere, and seasonally from Gran Canaria.
The airline connects passengers to destinations across Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and the Caucasus region.
With a focus on efficiency and customer satisfaction, airBaltic continues to strengthen its position as a key player in the aviation industry.
Hildén’s appointment signals a promising future for airBaltic as it builds on its achievements and pursues ambitious growth plans.
His proven track record in leading complex transformations and fostering financial resilience will be critical as the airline navigates an evolving global market.
The airBaltic team and its stakeholders now eagerly await the positive impact of Hildén’s leadership starting this December.
