Poland is on the brink of a major transportation revolution, with the Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) project making remarkable progress. Recently, the terminal’s construction design was officially greenlit by the lead architects Foster + Partners and Buro Happold, working alongside over 30 specialist subcontractors and more than 400 designers. This milestone marks a critical step forward for the multi-modal mega-hub. With the design now approved, the next phase involves submitting documentation to the Mazovian Voivode for building permits. If the timeline remains on track, the futuristic airport and railway station could be fully operational by 2032.
A Future-Proof Terminal Designed for Scale
The airport’s terminal, in its initial phase, is expected to cover a massive 450,000 square metres, setting a new benchmark in Poland’s aviation infrastructure. Spread across three operational levels, the terminal will cater to both Schengen and Non-Schengen passengers with streamlined efficiency. It is designed to facilitate seamless movement between various modes of transport, thanks to features such as direct boarding pier access, state-of-the-art luggage systems, and ample check-in areas. Beginning with 140 check-in desks, the terminal has room to grow to 170. Its modular nature allows passenger capacity to start at 34 million annually and scale up to 44 million as demand increases, ensuring long-term viability.
Integrated Transport at Its Best
More than just an airport, CPK aims to become a national and regional transport hub by integrating air, rail, and road travel. A key part of the plan includes a subterranean railway station and long-distance coach terminal, designed for effortless transfers. Notably, it is projected that up to 50% of all passengers will arrive by train or bus, significantly easing road congestion. High-speed rail development is well underway, with nearly 500 kilometres of new lines in advanced stages of planning and the critical Łódź tunnel already under construction. These links will reduce travel times dramatically, connecting key Polish cities such as Warsaw, Poznań, and Wrocław within 2.5 hours.
Building a Legacy Beyond Transit
Architecturally, the CPK terminal is set to impress with its minimalist vertical layout, abundance of natural light, and intuitive navigation. These design choices not only enhance the passenger experience but also promote sustainability and energy efficiency. Furthermore, the project carries deep cultural resonance: dubbed the “Solidarity Transport Hub,” it pays homage to Poland’s historic movement for freedom and unity. As the country moves closer to breaking ground, the CPK Airport is emerging as more than just a travel hub, it’s a symbol of national progress, vision, and identity for generations to come.
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Project Overview
Goal: Build a new mega airport and integrated transport hub.
Size: 450,000 sqm terminal in the first phase.
Design: By Foster + Partners and Buro Happold.
Capacity: Will serve 34 to 44 million passengers annually.
Features: Rail, road, and air transport all under one roof.
Check-in: 140 desks at launch, expandable to 170.
Timeline: First phase expected to open before end of 2032.
Flexibility: Modular design for easy future expansions.
Significance: Named “Solidarity Transport Hub” to honor Polish unity.
