Polish aviation sees growth in Poznań while LOT cuts routes due to fuel costs

Poznań-Ławica Airport has reported significant growth in passenger traffic, surpassing 500,000 travelers in July. Between January and July 2026, the airport handled 2,373,210 passengers, a 3% increase compared to the same period in 2025. This growth was largely driven by low-cost carriers, which saw a 9% year-on-year increase in July, and charter flights, which rose by 4%. Antalya, Turkey, remains the most popular summer destination from Poznań.

In contrast, the national carrier LOT Polish Airlines is facing financial pressures due to rising aviation fuel costs. According to Infrastructure Minister Piotr Malepszak, fuel now accounts for approximately 40% of LOT's total expenses, up from a standard 25%. This spike is attributed to geopolitical instability and the crisis in the Middle East. Consequently, LOT is adjusting its winter schedule by suspending several routes, including early closures for flights to Skopje, Sarajevo, and Podgorica, to maintain cost discipline and liquidity.