Key Takeaways
• Polish aviation warns EU to support airports, airlines against rising SAF costs and regulatory challenges.
• LOT expects SAF expenses of €40 million in 2025, €100 million by 2030, urging EU subsidies.
• EU Commission reviewing state aid rules and aviation strategy, decisions expected by end of 2025.
On May 21, 2025, the heart of European aviation beat in Brussels as leaders from across the continent gathered for the New Gates, New Heights: Driving EU Competitiveness Through Aviation conference. Organized under the Polish Presidency of the EU Council, this event brought together Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK), LOT Polish Airlines, and Business & Science Poland. Their message was clear: the Polish aviation industry, along with its European partners, is calling for urgent European Union action to protect the future of European airports and airlines. Without strong policy support, they warn, Europe risks losing its place as a global leader in aviation.
Why Is the Polish Aviation Industry Sounding the Alarm?
The Polish aviation industry, led by CPK and LOT Polish Airlines, is worried that European airports and airlines are facing growing pressure from several directions. High costs for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), strict environmental rules, and tough competition from non-EU airlines are making it harder for European carriers to compete. If these problems are not addressed, the entire sector could lose jobs, economic growth, and vital air connections.
Key reasons for the urgent call to action:
- Rising costs for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)
- Stricter environmental regulations in Europe compared to other regions
- Unequal competition with non-EU airlines
- Financial struggles for regional airports
- Need for more investment in new, cleaner technologies
What Does the Industry Want from the EU?
1. Recognize Aviation as a Strategic Sector
The Polish aviation industry wants the European Commission to officially recognize aviation as a key part of the European economy. This means treating airports and airlines as essential for jobs, trade, and connections between countries. By doing this, aviation would get more attention and support in future EU policies.
2. Include Aviation in Major EU Strategies
Industry leaders are asking for aviation to be included in the EU’s Clean Industrial Deal and Sustainable Transport Investment Plan. These are big plans for making Europe’s industries greener and more competitive. Including aviation would help airports and airlines get funding and support for new projects, especially those that help the environment.
3. Financial Support for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
Sustainable aviation fuel is made from renewable sources and produces less pollution than regular jet fuel. However, it is much more expensive. LOT Polish Airlines expects its SAF costs to reach €40 million in 2025 and €100 million by 2030. The industry is asking for:
- Direct financial support for SAF production
- Exemption from fuel taxes for SAF
- A virtual SAF certification trading system (a way for airlines to buy and sell SAF credits)
These steps would help airlines afford the switch to cleaner fuel without losing money or raising ticket prices too much.
4. Equal Rules for All Airlines
European airlines must follow strict environmental rules, but many non-EU airlines do not. This makes it harder for European carriers to compete. The industry wants the EU to create rules that make sure all airlines, no matter where they are from, face similar costs and requirements.
5. State Aid for Regional Airports
Many smaller airports in Europe are struggling to survive. They are important for connecting smaller cities and regions, but they often do not make enough money to cover their costs. The group ACI EUROPE is calling for the EU to extend its State Aid Guidelines. This would allow regional airports to get financial help from their governments, especially for projects that reduce pollution.
Recent and Pending Policy Changes
Review of State Aid Guidelines
The European Commission is reviewing its 2014 Aviation State Aid Guidelines. Many in the industry, especially in Poland, want these rules updated so that regional airports can get more help. They also want the rules to support investments in cleaner technology.
Destination 2050 Roadmap
The European aviation sector has created a plan called the Destination 2050 roadmap. This plan shows how the industry can reach “net zero” emissions by 2050. It calls for a €2.4 trillion investment in new technology, cleaner fuels, and better infrastructure. The industry is urging the EU to follow the roadmap’s recommendations.
The Economic Importance of Aviation in Europe
Aviation is a major part of the European economy. According to the latest data:
- Supports 15 million jobs across Europe
- Generates €1.2 trillion in economic activity
- Accounts for 4.6% of European GDP (2023 data)
In Poland alone:
- Directly employs 54,800 people
- Contributes $3.6 billion to the national economy
- Supports 288,400 jobs
- Adds $15.3 billion to GDP
Air travel is also closely linked to economic growth. For every 10% increase in direct air connectivity, there is a 0.5% increase in GDP per person and a 1.6% increase in jobs. This means that strong airports and airlines help everyone, not just those who work in aviation.
The Cost of Going Green
Making aviation cleaner is expensive. The Draghi report, a key study on the green transition, estimates that decarbonizing aviation will cost €61 billion per year. Most of this money will go toward:
- Developing and producing SAF
- Buying new, more efficient aircraft
- Upgrading airport infrastructure
- Research and innovation
Without help from the EU, many airlines and airports will struggle to pay these costs, especially as they compete with carriers from other regions that do not face the same rules.
Who Are the Key Stakeholders?
Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK)
CPK is leading the call for more EU support. They focus on building new infrastructure and making sure Poland stays connected to the rest of Europe and the world.
LOT Polish Airlines
LOT is Poland’s national airline and a major player in the Polish aviation industry. They are especially concerned about the high cost of SAF and the need for fair competition with non-EU airlines.
ACI EUROPE
This group represents airports across Europe. They are pushing for more state aid, especially for smaller airports, and want EU rules to support investments in cleaner technology.
European Commission
The European Commission is the main decision-maker for EU policies. They are currently reviewing state aid rules and considering new strategies for aviation.
Mario Draghi
Mario Draghi’s recommendations on financing the green transition are central to the current debate. His ideas are shaping how the EU thinks about funding the move to cleaner aviation.
What Are the Practical Effects for Stakeholders?
For Airlines
- Higher costs for fuel and new technology
- Tougher competition from non-EU carriers
- Need to invest in cleaner planes and fuels
- Risk of losing market share if costs are not managed
For Airports
- Regional airports may lose vital connections
- Need for more investment in decarbonization
- Possible financial struggles without state aid
For Passengers
- Potential for higher ticket prices
- Risk of losing direct flights, especially from smaller airports
- Long-term benefits from cleaner, more efficient travel
For the Economy
- Loss of jobs and economic activity if the sector shrinks
- Reduced connectivity could hurt trade and tourism
- Opportunities for growth if the sector remains strong and competitive
How Are Stakeholders Pushing for Change?
Policy Advocacy
Industry leaders are meeting with EU officials, organizing conferences, and running public campaigns to make their case. They want the European Commission and EU Council to understand the risks and act quickly.
Applying for State Aid
Regional airports are preparing applications for operating aid under current or new EU rules. They must show how they support connectivity and are working to reduce pollution.
Preparing for SAF Certification
Airlines are getting ready for new systems that will certify the use of SAF. They are also looking for ways to trade SAF credits to help manage costs.
Multiple Perspectives on the Issue
Industry Leaders
They warn that without action, European aviation could lose its edge. They stress the need for fair rules and strong support from the EU.
Regional Airports
These airports say they are at risk of losing essential air links. They need tailored support to survive and invest in cleaner operations.
Environmental Advocates
They support the push for cleaner aviation but warn that costs must be managed. If flying becomes too expensive or connections are lost, it could hurt the economy and society.
Policy Analysts
Experts say aviation is vital for Europe’s economic strength, security, and leadership in technology. They argue that smart policies can help the sector grow while also protecting the environment.
Background: How Did We Get Here?
Before 2020
European aviation was a world leader, but competition from Gulf, Asian, and US airlines was growing.
COVID-19 Impact
The pandemic hit aviation hard, showing how vulnerable the sector can be. Many airlines and airports struggled to survive.
Green Deal and Fit for 55
The EU introduced new climate policies, including the Green Deal and Fit for 55. These set tough targets for reducing emissions, especially in aviation.
2024–2025: Poland Takes the Lead
With Poland holding the EU Council Presidency, aviation competitiveness became a top issue. The May 2025 Brussels conference and the upcoming Aerodays 2025 in Warsaw are key moments for shaping the future.
What Happens Next?
Policy Decisions Coming Soon
The European Commission is expected to announce changes to state aid rules and possibly a new Aviation Strategy in 2025. These decisions will shape how much support airports and airlines can get.
Aerodays 2025
This major event, set for May 7–9, 2025, in Warsaw, will focus on research, innovation, and policy for European aviation. It will be another chance for the Polish aviation industry and its partners to push for their goals.
Investment Needs
Reaching net-zero emissions and staying competitive will require ongoing EU funding, new rules, and fresh ideas from the industry.
Official Resources for More Information
For those seeking more details or wishing to follow policy updates, the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport provides authoritative information on aviation policy and funding opportunities. You can visit their official page at European Commission Mobility and Transport.
What Should Stakeholders Do Now?
- Airlines: Prepare for higher SAF costs, look for financial support, and get ready for new certification systems.
- Airports: Apply for state aid, invest in decarbonization, and work with local and national governments.
- Passengers: Stay informed about possible changes to routes and ticket prices.
- Policy Advocates: Continue to push for fair, balanced rules that support both competitiveness and sustainability.
Final Thoughts
The Polish aviation industry, with strong backing from LOT Polish Airlines and CPK, is leading a Europe-wide push to protect the future of European airports and airlines. As reported by VisaVerge.com, the outcome of ongoing policy reviews and upcoming events like Aerodays 2025 will be critical. The choices made in the next year will decide whether Europe’s aviation sector can stay strong, competitive, and green—or risk falling behind in the global race.
For everyone involved—airlines, airports, passengers, and policymakers—the message is clear: the time to act is now. By working together and making smart, fair decisions, Europe can keep its skies open, its economy strong, and its environment protected for generations to come.
Learn Today
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) → Renewable jet fuel producing less pollution, but costing significantly more than traditional fuel.
Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) → A strategic Polish hub project aiming to enhance European air connectivity and infrastructure.
State Aid Guidelines → EU rules governing government financial support to sectors, currently under review for aviation.
Destination 2050 Roadmap → A strategic plan calling for €2.4 trillion investment to reach net-zero aviation emissions by 2050.
Fit for 55 → An EU climate policy package aiming to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030.
This Article in a Nutshell
At the May 2025 Brussels conference, Poland-led aviation leaders pushed for urgent EU action to support airports, airlines, and sustainable fuels. Rising costs and unequal rules threaten Europe’s aviation competitiveness, risking jobs and connectivity without strong policy and financial support.
— By VisaVerge.com
