LOT Polish Airlines and Avram Iancu Cluj International Airport marked a major milestone in 2025, celebrating the airport’s two millionth passenger and highlighting its growing role in the Romania Air Transport Network. On January 14, 2025, the airport and airline announced a sharp increase in direct flights between Cluj-Napoca and Warsaw, showing strong demand and the airport’s expanding importance for both regional and international travel.
The latest schedule changes mean that, starting with the winter 2025 season, LOT Polish Airlines now offers five flights per week between Cluj-Napoca and Warsaw. With the arrival of summer, this number rose to daily flights, and from June 23, 2025, the frequency increased even further to nine flights per week. This move directly responds to the rising number of travelers using the route, which connects passengers from Romania to dozens of destinations across Europe, North America, and Asia through Warsaw.
Passenger Growth and Regional Impact
Cluj International Airport’s passenger numbers have shown steady growth over recent years. In 2023, the airport handled 3.24 million passengers, making it the second-busiest airport in Romania after Bucharest Henri Coandă. This growth is driven by expanded partnerships with airlines like LOT Polish Airlines, increased flight frequencies, and the airport’s strategic location in Transylvania. The airport’s leadership, including Board Chairman Viorel Federiga, has emphasized that these developments confirm Cluj’s role as a key economic engine for the region and the leading regional airport in the country.
Digital Innovation and Booking Ease
In May 2025, the ITH Group, which owns popular travel portals like Vola.ro, announced a new partnership with LOT Polish Airlines. This partnership uses the IATA New Distribution Capability (NDC) standard, allowing travel agencies and travelers in Romania, Poland, and Bulgaria to access LOT’s flights directly through digital platforms. This means travelers can find better fares, more services, and a smoother booking experience. According to Dawid Karas, Deputy Director of Sales for Agencies & Head of NDC at LOT Polish Airlines, this partnership is a key step in expanding LOT’s modern distribution strategy in Central Europe.
Daniel Truica, Founder and CEO of the ITH Group, said that working with LOT Polish Airlines shows their commitment to building a modern, digital, and customer-focused way for people to book flights. This digital integration is expected to further boost LOT’s presence in the region and make it easier for Romanian travelers to plan their journeys.
Key Benefits for Travelers and the Community
The increased flight frequencies and digital booking options bring several practical benefits:
- More flexibility: With up to nine flights per week, travelers can choose from more departure times, making it easier to fit flights into their schedules.
- Better connections: The Cluj–Warsaw route serves as a gateway to many global destinations, helping both business and leisure travelers reach cities across Europe, North America, and Asia.
- Easier booking: The integration of LOT Polish Airlines flights into major online travel platforms means travelers can compare prices, find deals, and book extra services all in one place.
- Improved airport services: Avram Iancu Airport offers modern terminals, efficient ground transportation, and a range of passenger services, supporting its role as a regional hub.
Official Statements and Industry Perspectives
Viorel Federiga, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Cluj International Airport, has said that the airport’s efforts to increase regional connectivity are paying off, with new flight frequencies helping to strengthen its leadership among Romanian regional airports. Aviation industry experts agree, noting that these developments position Cluj as a critical gateway for both regional and international air travel.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the airport’s continued investment in infrastructure and partnerships with major carriers like LOT Polish Airlines are seen as key drivers of economic growth and international integration for the region.
How to Access Services and Support
Travelers using LOT Polish Airlines at Cluj-Napoca can access a dedicated office for help with ticketing, baggage, travel insurance, and special services. The office is located at Strada Traian Vuia 149-151, Cluj-Napoca 400397, Romania. For assistance, passengers can call +40 264 307 500 or email [email protected]. More information about flights, schedules, and services is available on the official LOT Polish Airlines website.
The airport itself is easy to reach by public transport, with trolleybus lines 5 and 8 and express line A1E connecting the airport to the city center. By car, the drive from downtown Cluj-Napoca takes about 20 minutes, making it convenient for both local and visiting travelers.
Background and Historical Growth
Avram Iancu Cluj International Airport has grown rapidly since the 1990s. Once a small domestic airport, it has become a major international hub with modern facilities that can handle millions of passengers each year. Its location in Transylvania, close to major road networks, has helped it become a leading regional airport and a key part of the Romania Air Transport Network.
Looking Ahead: Future Growth and Opportunities
The ongoing increase in flight frequencies and the digital integration of LOT Polish Airlines flights suggest that passenger numbers and route offerings will continue to grow through 2025 and beyond. Airport and airline officials expect further expansion of services and improved connectivity, with Cluj set to strengthen its role as a major player in Romania’s air transport network.
For travelers, this means more choices, better connections, and easier access to destinations around the world. For the region, it means more business opportunities, tourism growth, and stronger ties with international markets.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Check schedules regularly: With flight frequencies changing seasonally, travelers should check the latest schedules on the LOT Polish Airlines website or the airport’s official site.
- Book early for best fares: Increased demand can lead to higher prices, so booking early can help secure better deals.
- Use digital platforms: Take advantage of the new digital booking options to compare fares and find the best travel services.
- Plan ground transport: Consider public transport options or arrange a taxi for a smooth trip to and from the airport.
Official Resources
For more information about flights, passenger services, and airport facilities, visit the official Avram Iancu Cluj International Airport website. For LOT Polish Airlines bookings and support, go to LOT’s official site.
In summary, the partnership between LOT Polish Airlines and Avram Iancu Cluj International Airport, along with digital innovations and rising passenger numbers, has reinforced the airport’s vital role in the Romania Air Transport Network. These developments promise continued growth, better services, and greater international connectivity for travelers and the wider community.
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