In a historic move for European aviation, Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) has signed a letter of intent with Polish Airports (PPL) to cooperate in the construction of Poland’s largest infrastructure project – a new central airport set to become a regional and global hub. He travels. This partnership brings together two major players in Polish aviation, combining experience and resources to deliver a state-of-the-art facility. The project reflects successful models in countries such as Sweden (Swedavia) and France (Airports 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 construction and management of the airport. PPL, operator of Warsaw Chopin Airport and a major player in Polish airport infrastructure, will own up to 49%. This collaboration ensures that the project remains rooted in national expertise while aligning with international best practices.
A strategic investment in Poland’s future
The decision to engage Polish Airports (PPL) as a minority investor underscores the commitment to using local resources to achieve ambitious infrastructure goals. The agreement also represents a major milestone for CPK Capital Group, which is tasked with planning, developing and managing the central airport project in Poland.
Project financing
The estimated cost of construction of the airport is PLN 44.7 billion, with 30-40% direct financing by shareholders of CPK.Lotnisko. The remaining costs will be covered by issuing bonds and other debt instruments. PPL has committed up to PLN 9 billion, while CPK will allocate PLN 9.125 billion for the construction of the airport.
The deal to formalize the partnership is scheduled to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2025, and preparatory work – including the drafting of investment agreements and operational plans – is scheduled to take place over the next year.
The new airport is designed to serve as a modern multimodal transportation hub. The first phase, scheduled for completion in 2032, will include two parallel runways and the capacity to handle 34 million passengers annually. The multimodal terminal will integrate air and ground areas with the high-speed rail station and bus station, ensuring seamless connections for passengers. Improvements in surrounding transport infrastructure, such as the high-speed railway “Y” linking two major Polish cities, Warsaw and Łódź and the expansion of the A2 motorway, will enhance accessibility.
“I am pleased that thanks to the joint capital commitment between PPL and CPK, the integration of the investment process and the effective achievement of CPK program objectives will be achieved, from leveraging know-how and technologies to the final commissioning and operation of CPK Airport Management,” said Dr. Philip Czarnecki, CEO of CPK.
“The capital participation of Polish Airports in CPK.Lotnisko will allow it to continue its role as a key enterprise in the Polish aviation market, linked to almost a century of Polish aviation tradition. We have the skilled staff and knowledge necessary to meet the challenges,” said Andrzej Elko, CEO of PPL. associated with the construction of CPK Airport, especially during the launch and operation phases.”
Poland’s ambitious aviation future
The construction of CPK Airport represents a bold step in positioning Poland as a central aviation hub for Europe. By combining Polish expertise and innovative infrastructure design, the project will enhance connectivity and support the growth of Poland’s aviation industry, ensuring that 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 strengthens its position while aligning with the broader objectives of CPK’s program to modernize Poland’s transport infrastructure.