In a landmark move for European aviation, Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) has signed a Letter of Intent with Polish Airports (PPL) to collaborate on the construction of Poland’s largest infrastructure project—a new central airport set to become a hub for regional and global travel. This partnership unites two key players in Polish aviation, combining expertise and resources to deliver a state-of-the-art facility. The project mirrors successful models in countries such as Sweden (Swedavia) and France (Aéroports de Paris – ADP), further integrating Poland into the European and global aviation network.

The new airport will be built using Polish capital, with CPK retaining a majority stake of at least 51% in CPK.Lotnisko (CPK. Airport) – the subsidiary responsible for the airport’s construction and management. PPL, the operator of Warsaw Chopin Airport and a major player in Polish airport infrastructure, will hold up to 49%. This collaboration ensures the project remains rooted in national expertise while aligning with international best practices.
A strategic investment in Poland’s future

The decision to involve Polish Airports (PPL) as a minority investor underscores a commitment to using domestic resources to achieve ambitious infrastructure goals. The agreement also marks a significant milestone for the CPK Capital Group, tasked with the planning, development, and management of Poland’s central airport project.

Financing the project

The estimated construction cost of the airport is PLN 44.7 billion, with 30-40% financed directly by the shareholders of CPK.Lotnisko. The remaining costs will be covered through bond issuance and other debt instruments. PPL has committed up to PLN 9 billion, while CPK will allocate PLN 9.125 billion to the airport’s construction.

The transaction formalising the partnership is set to be finalised in Q4 2025, with preparatory work—including the drafting of investment agreements and operational plans—scheduled to take place over the next year.

The new airport is designed to serve as a modern intermodal transport hub. Phase one, set for completion in 2032, will include two parallel runways and the capacity to handle 34 million passengers annually. An intermodal terminal will integrate airside and landside zones with a high-speed railway station and a bus terminal, ensuring seamless connections for passengers. Enhancements to the surrounding transport infrastructure, such as the high-speed rail line “Y” linking two major Polish cities, Warsaw and Łódź and the expansion of the A2 motorway, will further bolster accessibility.

“I am pleased that thanks to the joint capital commitment of PPL and CPK, the integration of the investment process and the achievement of the goals of the CPK Programme will be effectively realised, from leveraging know-how and technologies to the eventual commissioning and operational management of the CPK airport,” said Dr. Filip Czernicki, CEO of CPK.

“The capital involvement of Polish Airports in CPK.Lotnisko will allow it to continue its role as a key institution in the Polish aviation market, linked to nearly a century of Polish aviation tradition. We have the skilled staff and knowledge necessary to meet the challenges associated with the construction of the CPK airport, especially during the launch and operational phases,” stated Andrzej Ilków, CEO of PPL.

Poland’s ambitious aviation future

The construction of the CPK airport represents a bold step in positioning Poland as a central aviation hub for Europe. By combining Polish expertise with innovative infrastructure design, the project will enhance connectivity, support the growth of Poland’s aviation industry, and ensure the country plays a leading role in the region’s economic development.

Polish Airports (PPL) already operates Warsaw Chopin Airport and several regional airports, making it a pivotal player in the national aviation ecosystem. Its partnership with CPK further strengthens its position while aligning with the broader goals of the CPK Programme to modernise Poland’s transport infrastructure.

The post Poland’s Central Airport to transform European connectivity appeared first on Air Cargo Week.