LOT Polish Airlines has signed its largest-ever aircraft acquisition agreement, committing to purchase 40 Airbus A220 aircraft with options for 44 more, in a deal valued at approximately 4 billion zloty (€900 million). The announcement was made Monday during the opening day of the 2025 Paris Air Show.
The historic order marks the first time the Polish flag carrier has selected Airbus jets for its fleet and represents a strategic step in modernizing LOT’s regional operations. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the summer of 2027.
The deal includes 20 A220-100 and 20 A220-300 aircraft. The smaller A220-100 accommodates 108 to 133 passengers, while the larger -300 variant seats between 130 and 160. All models will be equipped with Pratt & Whitney PW1500G engines, designed to increase fuel efficiency and reduce noise and emissions.
“This is the largest order in the history of LOT Polish Airlines,” said Prime Minister Donald Tusk during the announcement in Paris. “It opens a new chapter in the development of the company and Polish aviation.”
LOT’s CEO Michał Fijoł emphasized that the decision followed a competitive process between Airbus and Brazilian manufacturer Embraer, whose jets currently dominate LOT’s regional fleet. “We chose Airbus because they wanted us more,” Fijoł said, referencing the intense bidding that preceded the contract.
The purchase also carries symbolic weight, strengthening Franco-Polish ties amid broader European cooperation initiatives. The announcement comes just weeks after Poland and France signed a bilateral agreement on defense and energy collaboration.
“The timing of this agreement reflects deepening relations between Warsaw and Paris,” said Tomasz Pasikowski, an aviation analyst at Warsaw-based consultancy Avionica. “Beyond the commercial terms, it signals a political alignment on infrastructure and innovation.”
LOT’s current fleet numbers around 87 aircraft, including Boeing 787 Dreamliners, 737s, and Embraer E-Jets. The A220s will gradually replace aging Embraer 170, 175, 190, and 195 models. The airline’s strategic plan projects an expanded fleet of up to 110 aircraft by 2028, incorporating not only the new A220s but also Boeing 737 MAX 8s and additional long-haul aircraft.
This move introduces a new manufacturer into LOT’s fleet, diversifying a lineup that has traditionally relied on Boeing and Embraer. The decision may entail logistical adjustments, including new maintenance systems and crew training programs, but experts say the long-term benefits could outweigh the challenges.
“LOT is embracing a more versatile fleet structure,” said Paweł Szymański, editor of Polish Aviation Review. “Introducing Airbus allows for operational flexibility and reduces dependency on any single supplier. It’s a significant shift, both technically and culturally, for the airline.”
The A220s’ extended range — up to 6,700 kilometers — will also enhance LOT’s capacity for new regional routes within Europe and into adjacent regions. Fijoł confirmed the new jets will primarily operate from Warsaw Chopin Airport, with future deployment planned for the Central Communication Port (CPK), a major transport hub under development west of the capital.
The CPK project, envisioned as a central node for rail and air travel in Central Europe, is expected to be completed by the early 2030s. LOT’s investment in new-generation regional aircraft aligns with the government’s vision for the airport to become a key European transit point.
While Airbus has pledged to support LOT with technical assistance, the airline will still need to establish new training and maintenance infrastructure. Industry analysts note that integrating a new aircraft type can be costly and time-consuming, though the A220’s track record of fuel efficiency and passenger comfort offers potential long-term returns.
For Airbus, the deal represents a significant market breakthrough in Central and Eastern Europe. The A220 has been increasingly adopted by European carriers seeking efficient short- and medium-haul solutions.
“The A220 is well suited to LOT’s needs,” said Airbus Sales Director Philippe Lesieur. “We’re proud to support LOT’s future with aircraft that combine modern technology, environmental performance, and passenger comfort.”
The agreement includes options to purchase up to 44 additional A220 aircraft, which could bring the total order to 84 if fully exercised. According to LOT, the final decision on these options will depend on market conditions and operational requirements over the next few years.
LOT’s transformation is notable given its near-bankruptcy in 2013. Back then, the airline required a government bailout and underwent significant restructuring. Today’s multi-billion-zloty investment marks a remarkable turnaround and signals confidence in the carrier’s long-term strategy.
With the first A220 deliveries set for 2027 and a fleet expansion plan in place, LOT is positioning itself as a competitive player in the European market. The coming years will test the airline’s ability to integrate new technology while capitalizing on Poland’s evolving aviation infrastructure.
