What's Happening?
LOT Polish Airlines is set to expand its Central Asia network by launching flights between Warsaw and Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city and commercial hub. The Polish flag carrier will operate four flights per week
during the summer season and three weekly flights in winter, utilizing Boeing 737-8 aircraft. This new route, commencing on May 31, 2026, marks LOT's second destination in Kazakhstan, complementing its existing service to Astana, and its third in Central Asia alongside Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The decision to add Almaty was initially planned for 2020 but was delayed due to the pandemic. Demand data indicates a growing potential for the new route, with 11,950 two-way passengers traveling between Warsaw and Almaty in 2024, a 19.7% increase from the previous year.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of LOT Polish Airlines into Almaty is significant for several reasons. Kazakhstan is the largest economy in Central Asia and a key trading partner for Poland, making it an attractive destination for business expansion. Bilateral trade between Poland and Kazakhstan reached $1.12 billion in 2024, with more than 140 Polish companies operating in Kazakhstan. The new route is expected to enhance connectivity and facilitate business opportunities between the two countries. Additionally, LOT's strategic move to increase capacity and offer nonstop connections reinforces its position as a leading carrier in the region, potentially boosting tourism and economic ties.
What's Next?
With the addition of Almaty, LOT Polish Airlines will double its capacity to almost 3,000 weekly seats in summer 2026, strengthening its market presence. The airline anticipates strong feeder demand to support the new service, similar to its existing Astana route. As the largest economy in Central Asia, Kazakhstan offers significant opportunities for Polish businesses, and the new route is expected to further stimulate bilateral trade and investment. LOT's expansion strategy may lead to increased competition in the region, prompting other airlines to enhance their offerings.
Beyond the Headlines
The expansion into Almaty by LOT Polish Airlines highlights the growing importance of Central Asia as a strategic region for international airlines. The move reflects broader trends in global aviation, where carriers are increasingly seeking to tap into emerging markets with high growth potential. The development of new routes not only facilitates business and tourism but also fosters cultural exchange and strengthens diplomatic relations between countries.
