Introduction
Kraków Airport (KRK) has had a landmark year, breaking passenger records while grappling with operational hurdles. As Poland's second-largest airport, it serves as a crucial gateway for expats and travelers, but recent months have seen a spike in flight issues, from delays to cancellations. This article delves into the airport's performance, its impact on the foreign community, and what to expect moving forward.
Impact on Foreigners
For expats and international visitors, Kraków Airport is often the first point of contact with Poland. The surge in passenger traffic to over 13.2 million in 2025 highlights its growing importance, but it also means crowded terminals and potential stress. The higher-than-average flight disruptions, particularly in December when disruptions hit 8.67% due to weather, can lead to inconvenient delays or cancellations, affecting travel plans for work, family visits, or holidays. Social media has been abuzz with complaints, underscoring the need for reliable airport services.
Key Details
- Record-Breaking Traffic: Kraków Airport served 13.248 million passengers in 2025, up from 11.1 million in 2024, marking it as a European growth leader in its category.
- December Challenges: Despite a 25% increase in passengers to nearly 1.1 million, December saw the highest disruption rate since 2012, driven by fog and other weather issues.
- Infrastructure and Access: The CEO acknowledges bottlenecks, including poor road access to the A4 motorway, which limits capacity. Plans include tripling parking spaces and modernizing roads.
- Future Investments: Key upgrades are underway, such as opening six new gates in the non-Schengen area by April 2026 and expanding the terminal to handle up to 20 million passengers. The airport will also soon abolish the 100 ml liquid limit in hand luggage.
- Unique Role: As a dual military and civilian airport since 1964, KRK balances specific operational needs with civilian growth.
Conclusion
Kraków Airport is at a crossroads of success and strain, with record passenger numbers testing its infrastructure. For expats, this means both more connectivity and potential travel hiccups. However, with ongoing investments in terminals, runways, and access roads, the airport aims to smooth out these bumps. Stay informed by checking our guide to airport transfers for hassle-free travel tips. As KRK evolves, it promises to become a more efficient hub for Poland's vibrant expat community.