Yes strict cabin baggage check
Yes airBaltic is pretty strict with the carry on situation. Since I only had a backpack and a large suitcase, I did not have any problems especially I had to check my large suitcase anyway.
I witnessed some issues with a passenger in front of me regarding check in bags at London Gatwick. So there is no way to get around it especially airBaltic Y fares are fairly cheap these days.
Carfield