Poland’s flag carrier LOT Polish Airlines has drawn attention as the leading candidate in the bid to acquire Smartwings, the largest airline in the Czech Republic. The potential acquisition is viewed as a critical move for regional aviation dominance ahead of Poland’s massive Central Communication Port (CPK) aviation complex, scheduled to open in 2032.
According to Dziennik Gazeta Prawna, LOT currently ranks first in the bidding competition for Smartwings, which is a subsidiary of Czech Airlines.
Low Chances of Antitrust Approval for Rivals
The remaining two bidders are Germany’s Discovery Airlines and the German-Turkish joint venture SunExpress. However, due to both companies’ ownership ties to Lufthansa, it is noted that obtaining the necessary competition approval from the European Union could be difficult. This situation further strengthens LOT’s position.
CPK: Poland’s Regional Aviation Vision
Poland is rapidly advancing its CPK project, which is intended to become one of Europe’s largest transport hubs with integrated air–rail–road connections. Set to begin operations in 2032, CPK aims to reshape travel infrastructure in Central Europe.
The potential acquisition of Smartwings is considered to support LOT’s ambition to become the region’s leading airline player.
Deal Could Be Finalised by the End of 2025
While LOT and the Polish Ministry of Infrastructure declined to comment officially, ministry sources told Dziennik Gazeta Prawna that the agreement could be concluded by the end of 2025. The financial size of the acquisition has not yet been disclosed.
Record Financial Performance from LOT
LOT closed 2024 with the strongest financial results in its history. The airline reported:
- 9.93 billion zloty (€2.35 billion) in revenue,
- 688.5 million zloty (€162.7 million) net profit,
- A record-breaking 10.7 million passengers.
