LOT Polish Airlines shifts regional fleet strategy with major Airbus order

France's Minister for Transport highlighted that LOT is the last major European airline to incorporate Airbus into its fleet. The airline plans to assess the performance of the -300 variant before deciding on future distribution between the -100 and -300 models.

Fijol expressed confidence in the A220, stating, "We truly believe that the Airbus A220 is the right aircraft for the future of LOT." He cited growth potential, passenger experience, and sustainability as key factors in their decision.

The announcement adds to several other orders revealed at the Paris Air Show, including deals with Riyadh Air, All Nippon Airways, and Saudi Arabia's AviLease.

The shift comes as LOT seeks to expand its destinations and increase passenger numbers. Currently operating 87 aircraft with several regional jets supplied by Embraer, LOT will be Poland's first operator of Airbus planes once deliveries commence.

Embraer's E195-E2 was considered due to similarities with existing E1 models but ultimately did not secure this order. Arjan Meijer, CEO of Embraer's Commercial Aviation division, had described their offer as optimal given LOT's current fleet composition.