- Average base rate: $4.50 USD/kg
- Transit time: Express 1-2 days, Standard 3-5 days
- Primary carrier: Turkish Airlines (TK), Alternates: LOT Polish Airlines, lufthansa-lh-air-freight-cargo/">Lufthansa Cargo
- Key commodity flows: Electronics, Pharmaceuticals, Automotive parts
Air Freight from Turkey to Latvia — Rates, Transit Times & Carriers 2026
Shipping air freight from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Riga International Airport (RIX) offers a vital connection between Turkey and Latvia. Utilizing Turkish Airlines flight TK1775 (IATA code THY1775), this route covers a distance of 2,045 miles, providing efficient transport for various commodities. According to the latest data from IATA WATS and WorldACD for 2026, the air cargo market continues to evolve, focusing on speed and reliability.
Current Indicative Rates (2026)
The rates for air freight are calculated based on chargeable weight, which includes both actual weight and volumetric weight, as per IATA TACT guidelines. This ensures that shippers pay according to the space their cargo occupies in the aircraft.
| Service | Transit Time | Base Rate USD/kg | Min Charge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy | 5-7 days | $4.00 | $100 |
| Standard | 3-5 days | $4.50 | $150 |
| Express | 1-2 days | $5.00 | $200 |
Source: Turkish Airlines tariffs, IATA TACT, WorldACD 2026.
Surcharges & Full Cost Breakdown
When calculating the total cost of shipping, various surcharges may apply. Understanding these is crucial for accurate budgeting:
- Base freight: see table above
- Fuel surcharge (FSC): +10-25% of base freight
- Security surcharge: $0.02-0.15/kg
- Terminal handling: $0.05-0.15/kg at both Istanbul and Riga airports
- AWB documentation: $15-50 flat fee
- Customs brokerage: $75-250 for cross-border clearance
- Cargo insurance: 0.3-0.5% of declared value
Key Airports on This Route
Istanbul Airport (IST) serves as a major hub with significant cargo capacity, offering specialized facilities for various types of freight. Turkish Airlines operates numerous freighter services from IST, ensuring efficient handling of diverse shipments. Conversely, Riga International Airport (RIX) is equipped with modern cargo facilities and a dedicated customs zone, facilitating swift customs clearance and cargo handling upon arrival.
Top Carriers on Turkey to Latvia
Leading the charge on this route is Turkish Airlines, known for its reliable service and extensive network. Other notable carriers include LOT Polish Airlines, which provides competitive rates and transit times, and Lufthansa Cargo, offering premium air freight options for time-sensitive shipments. These carriers are well-documented in IATA AOG and WorldACD lane reports, ensuring transparency in service options.
What is Commonly Shipped
This route primarily handles diverse commodities, including:
- Pharmaceuticals (HS Codes: 3003-3006) – often requiring temperature-controlled environments.
- Electronics (HS Codes: 8471-8473) – frequently shipped due to high demand in Latvia’s tech sector.
- Automotive parts (HS Codes: 8708-8709) – essential for Latvia’s growing automotive industry.
- Perishables (HS Codes: 0201-0210) – including fruits and vegetables that require swift delivery to maintain freshness.
- E-commerce goods (HS Codes: varying) – increasingly popular due to the rise of online shopping in Latvia.
Each category may have special handling requirements, particularly for dangerous goods (DG) and temperature-sensitive items.
Customs & Documentation
When shipping freight from Turkey to Latvia, proper documentation is essential. Required documents include:
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Air Waybill (AWB)
For shipments within the EU, compliance with EUR-Lex Regulation 952/2013 is mandatory. Non-EU shipments must adhere to INCOTERMS 2020, such as DAP (Delivered at Place) and DDP (Delivered Duty Paid). Additionally, proper declaration of HS codes and the country of origin is critical for customs clearance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does air freight from Turkey to Latvia take?
Transit times vary by service level: Express takes 1-2 days, Standard takes 3-5 days, and Economy can take 5-7 days.
What does it cost to ship by air from Turkey to Latvia?
Shipping costs range from $4.00 to $5.00 USD/kg, depending on service type, with additional surcharges applicable.
What documents are required for Turkey to Latvia air freight?
Essential documents include a commercial invoice, packing list, and air waybill (AWB), along with compliance with customs regulations.
Which carriers fly cargo from Turkey to Latvia?
Turkish Airlines is the primary carrier, with LOT Polish Airlines and Lufthansa Cargo as notable alternatives.
Can dangerous goods (DG/HAZMAT) be shipped on this route?
Yes, but they must comply with IATA regulations, including proper UN number labeling and documentation.
How is chargeable weight calculated?
Chargeable weight is calculated using the volumetric formula of 6000 cm³/kg, in accordance with IATA Resolution 502.
Are there seasonal peaks affecting this route?
Yes, peak seasons typically occur from October to January and may vary based on demand for certain commodities.
Sources & References
- IATA TACT — iata.org
- WorldACD monthly air cargo reports
- INCOTERMS 2020 — ICC
- WCO HS Codes — World Customs Organization
- Turkish Airlines cargo tariff schedules (2026)
Reviewed by Mindaugas Bagdonas, Coservices OU logistics team — last updated 2026. Rates are indicative and subject to change with fuel index, capacity, and seasonal demand.