With prudent management, the capacities of Chopin and Modlin airports can grow, according to KO MP Maciej Lasek, who has been named as a potential plenipotentiary government official for the CPK. He emphasized the need to find a viable path to sustain Radom airport as well.
During an appearance on Radio Zet, Maciej Lasek, the KO MP and former head of the State Commission for the Investigation of Aircraft Accidents from 2012 to 2016, confirmed he had discussions with the Prime Minister about possibly succeeding Marcin Horała in the CPK project and serving as the government’s airport plenipotentiary. When asked about the timing, Lasek said the decision would be made by the Prime Minister, and that further discussions would follow once the appointment is signed.
Asked for a timeframe, he suggested patience, noting the decision could come soon.
He expressed support for making CPK investments more realistic, indicating he did not believe the project would launch in 2028. He projected a timeline closer to 2032 or perhaps 2035.
On sustainable planning for the network, Lasek argued for a thoughtful approach that weighs highways and rail together. He questioned where travelers would transfer between road and rail if new road corridors were built without parallel rail connections. A thorough analysis was seen as essential, likely taking several months, rather than a quick, abrupt rollout.
In his view, capacity improvements at Chopin and Modlin could lift annual passenger numbers to around 30 million. He suggested that with effective management the two-airport system could reach up to 40 million passengers, comprising Okęcie and an expanded Modlin alongside a modernized Chopin Airport.
Okęcie currently handles about 22 million passengers; with modernization, capacity could rise to around 27 or 28 million. Modlin, he noted, has been restricted in recent years, but it harbors potential to accommodate 10 million passengers or more.
Additionally, Lasek affirmed his support for preserving Radom airport, noting that even in the longer term profitability may remain elusive and that a viable strategy will be necessary to manage this asset effectively.
Looking ahead, he proposed envisioning a single, central airport that could replace the current setup while maintaining reasonable conditions. The plan would keep Chopin available for residents and ensure strong transport connections with Modlin, creating a balanced regional network.
CPK project
The Central Communication Port is envisioned as a major transfer hub linking Warsaw and Łódź, integrating air, rail, and road transport. The plan includes constructing an airport about 37 kilometers west of Warsaw on roughly 3,000 hectares and developing rail connections that would enable rapid travel between Warsaw and Poland’s largest cities, often within two and a half hours. The CPK is owned entirely by the Ministry of Finance.
Initial plans called for the airport to begin with two parallel runways and infrastructure capable of handling 40 million passengers in 2028, with the General Plan allowing future modular expansion.
While public discussion continues around this project and its milestones, experts emphasize the importance of thorough feasibility work, stakeholder alignment, and clear phasing that minimizes disruption to current air traffic and local communities. [citation: wPolityce]
The topic continues to be a focal point in national discussions about Poland’s aviation and transport strategy, with government officials weighing the best path forward for sustainable growth and regional accessibility. [citation: government briefings]
End of excerpt. Further context is provided by national coverage and policy analyses. [citation: national outlets]