LOT Launches Direct Flights from Gdańsk to Istanbul

For Gdańsk Airport, this is a significant development. For many years, a direct connection to Istanbul remained out of reach, despite being one of the most sought-after destinations. A bilateral air agreement between Poland and Turkey had restricted LOT and Turkish Airlines to operate flights to Istanbul only from Warsaw and Kraków. Now, with Gdańsk added to the list, it is clear that changes in the interpretation or renegotiation of the agreement have created new opportunities.

The launch of this connection also aligns with LOT’s broader strategic shift. Facing capacity constraints at Warsaw Chopin Airport, the carrier has been actively expanding its operations at regional airports. By offering more point-to-point routes from cities like Gdańsk, LOT is responding to growing demand among passengers who seek convenient, direct travel options without the need to transfer through the capital.

A similar scenario unfolded when the route between Kraków and Istanbul was introduced. Turkish Airlines initially intended to operate flights from Katowice, but due to legal limitations, the airline ultimately moved the service to Kraków and entered into cooperation with LOT. The Polish carrier subsequently announced its own flights on the same route. This arrangement allowed both airlines to maintain compliance with existing regulations while still expanding their presence in southern Poland.

The decision to launch the Gdańsk–Istanbul route sends a clear message: LOT recognizes the importance and potential of regional airports and is ready to invest in their growth. Further developments of this kind can be expected, with new connections possibly emerging from Poznań, Katowice, or Wrocław. For passengers, this means greater convenience and a wider range of travel options. For Gdańsk, it marks a step forward in strengthening its role as a key player in Poland’s aviation network.