LOT Polish Airlines unveils ambitious strategy with fleet expansion & Dreamliner upgrades, ET TravelWorld

Polish flag-carrier LOT Polish Airlines has set its sights on significant expansion, unveiling a comprehensive strategy extending until 2028. This ambitious roadmap outlines pivotal enhancements, including a fleet upgrade, an expanded route network, and a substantial cabin transformation for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner long-haul fleet. Furthermore, the airline is set to broaden its US offerings through a newly established codeshare agreement with Jetblue Airways, effective from the end of October 2023.

LOT Polish Airlines has set the target of increasing its fleet size by approximately 50 per cent by 2028, scaling up from the current 75 aircraft to 110. Alongside this substantial fleet expansion, the airline aims to see a remarkable surge in passenger numbers, projecting around a 70 per cent growth. This translates to an estimated 16.9 million passengers in 2028, compared to the expected 10.3 million for 2023.

Expanding route network
To match this fleet expansion and growing passenger demand, LOT Polish Airlines plans to introduce nearly 20 new destinations to its scheduled flight network, spanning both medium and long-haul routes. In addition to these expansions, the airline said it is dedicated to investing in airport facilities to enhance the passenger experience. This commitment includes remodeling and refreshing the LOT Polonez Business Lounge at its global hub in Warsaw, as well as the establishment of a new LOT Polish Airlines lounge at Terminal 5 in Chicago O’Hare International Airport.

Boeing 787 Dreamliner upgrades
On its long-haul routes, LOT Polish Airlines exclusively deploys Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. The airline is set to undergo a comprehensive retrofit of these aircraft across all cabins. Inspired by Polish landscapes, the airline mentioned that the future interiors are designed to reflect modernity, Polish hospitality, and the airline’s nearly 95 years of history.

New Recaro seats will be introduced in LOT Business Class, LOT Premium Economy Class, and LOT Economy Class aboard the Dreamliner fleet. In LOT Business Class, a 1-2-1 configuration will provide direct aisle access for each passenger. Notable amenities will include doors at the seats to ensure privacy and additional storage space for personal items. Passengers in LOT Premium Economy Class can expect more space and ergonomic seating, while those in LOT Economy Class will benefit from increased legroom and more comfortable seat upholstery.

LOT Polish Airlines said it is also enhancing the onboard entertainment options for its Boeing 787 Dreamliners. These widebody aircraft will feature Wi-Fi connectivity, and every seat will be equipped with a 4K screen. Passengers will be able to use their own Bluetooth headphones, and USB-C ports for charging mobile devices will be available at every seat. Power outlets can be found in both premium classes, with wireless charging options available in LOT Business Class.The airline anticipates the operation of the first retrofitted Boeing Dreamliners in 2026.

Codeshare with Jetblue
LOT Polish Airlines has also entered into a new codeshare partnership with Jetblue Airways, effective from October 30, 2023. This collaboration opens up additional options for passengers from Europe or India traveling via Warsaw to various destinations in the United States. Travellers can now enjoy enhanced connectivity to cities like Boston, Orlando, Detroit, Las Vegas, and Atlanta.

Michał Fijoł, CEO of LOT Polish Airlines, expressed his excitement about the new strategy, stating, “The new corporate strategy is a promise for upcoming decades. Global air traffic is evolving rapidly. We want to be one of the leaders of this evolution and prepare LOT Polish Airlines optimally for the second century of the company’s history.”