Transport Minister Juras Taminskas downplayed Ryanair’s warning that it might halt expansion in Lithuania this winter if Vilnius Airport does not lower its fees. He noted that flights are continuing as normal and that Ryanair has suspended routes in other countries, which shows that Lithuania remains competitive【825347905494992†L130-L139】. Airport fees were set in 2023 and will not change next year, providing businesses with stability【825347905494992†L142-L147】.

Taminskas said passenger numbers at Lithuanian airports are rising and other airlines, including Latvia’s airBaltic, are expanding operations【825347905494992†L153-L155】. Preparations are underway for Lithuania’s presidency of the EU Council in 2027, and the goal is to ensure at least two daily flights between Vilnius and Brussels【825347905494992†L157-L162】. Ryanair Chief Financial Officer Jason McGuinness earlier urged Lithuanian airports to cut fees, arguing that high charges hinder growth, but the airline still sees opportunities to expand in Lithuania【825347905494992†L164-L168】. Lithuanian Airports CEO Simonas Bartkus described Ryanair’s remarks as typical of the airline’s negotiation tactics【825347905494992†L170-L172】.