Warsaw Chopin Airport is the busiest airport in Poland and the primary international gateway to the country. Located in the Wlochy district of Warsaw, approximately 10 kilometers southwest of the city center, the airport was established in 1934 and named after the Polish composer Frederic Chopin. WAW handles over 18 million passengers per year, primarily from a single terminal building that was extensively renovated and expanded for the 2012 UEFA European Championship. The airport serves as the hub for LOT Polish Airlines, a member of Star Alliance, and hosts numerous European and international carriers. Wizz Air, a major low-cost carrier based in Budapest, also operates a significant number of flights from Warsaw Chopin. The airport is connected to the city center by the SKM commuter rail line, with service to Warsaw Central Station in approximately 25 minutes, and by regular bus services. Warsaw Chopin operates a single runway, which creates capacity constraints during peak hours and limits the airport's ability to handle additional traffic growth. The Solidarity Transport Hub, a major new airport planned for construction between Warsaw and Lodz, is intended to serve as a future aviation hub for Central Europe and alleviate capacity pressures at Chopin. Despite its compact size, Warsaw Chopin provides efficient service and remains the dominant airport in Poland, handling the largest share of the country's international air traffic and serving as the gateway to one of Europe's fastest-growing economies.

Aviation Terms

Airfield Lighting (AGL) Airport Category Airport Elevation (ELEV) Airport Fire Station (ARFF) Airport Lounge Airport Reference Point (ARP) Apron Automated Passport Control (APC)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get from Warsaw Chopin Airport to the city center?

The SKM/KM commuter rail line S2 and S3 runs from the airport to Warsaw Central Station (Warszawa Centralna) in about 25 minutes for PLN 4.40. Bus routes 175 and 188 also connect to the city center for PLN 4.40, taking 25-35 minutes. Taxis to the city center cost approximately PLN 40-60 (EUR 9-14) for the 10 km trip.

How many terminals does Warsaw Chopin Airport have?

Warsaw Chopin Airport has one main terminal building with two departure halls (A and B). The terminal was modernized with a new southern pier that opened in 2022. It is a compact layout where all gates are accessible from a single security checkpoint area.

What is the difference between Warsaw's two airports?

Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) is the main international airport, located 10 km south of the city center. Warsaw Modlin Airport (WMI), located 40 km north, serves primarily Ryanair and other budget carriers. WAW handles the vast majority of full-service airline traffic and long-haul flights. A new major airport, the Solidarity Transport Hub (CPK), is planned to eventually replace both.

Is there free Wi-Fi at Warsaw Chopin Airport?

Yes, WAW offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. The network provides reliable speeds for browsing and email. The airport also has a Chopin music corner with a piano in the departure area, paying tribute to the famous composer after whom the airport is named.

Which airlines have a hub at Warsaw Chopin Airport?

LOT Polish Airlines, a Star Alliance member, uses WAW as its primary hub, operating domestic, European, and intercontinental routes including flights to North America and Asia. Wizz Air also has a growing presence. The airport serves as a key connection point between Western Europe and destinations in Eastern Europe, the Baltics, and Central Asia.