With deep respect, we commemorate Ivars Alfrēds Gaveika, the first Director of the Transport Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau, who passed away on 31 January 2026.
Ivars Alfrēds Gaveika was an outstanding aviation professional with more than forty years of experience in civil aviation, flight safety, and accident investigation. He began his professional career as a pilot and aircraft captain, later becoming a flight instructor and a highly qualified aviation safety expert at both national and international levels.
Since 2000, he devoted his energy and expertise to the establishment of the Transport Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau and served as its first Head. His vision, competence, and strong sense of responsibility laid the foundation for the Bureau’s independent, professional, and internationally recognized work. He continuously enhanced his professional knowledge by obtaining specialized education at leading aviation safety institutions in Europe and the United States of America.
As a leader, he was distinguished by his calm demeanor, precision, and genuine respect for his colleagues. His contribution to transport safety in Latvia, as well as to the establishment and development of the Bureau, is lasting. The memory of Ivars Alfrēds Gaveika will remain in the history of our organization and in the hearts of his colleagues.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, relatives, and all those who had the honor of working with him.