Gdynia-Kosakowo Airport

Gdynia-Kosakowo Airport, also known as Gdynia-Oksywie or Gdynia-Babie Doły, is an unfinished facility with the potential to serve low-cost airlines. Located in the municipality of Kosakowo, 32 km from Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport, the airfield covers 700 hectares, with 85% of landing approaches taking place over water. Despite the construction of two paved runways, an ILS system, and a modern control tower, the airport never fully commenced operations as a civilian port. The history of the airport dates back to before World War II, when it was established as an auxiliary airfield for the port in Rumia. After the war, the area was taken over by the military, and in 2006 efforts began to convert it into a civilian facility, leading to legal and financial complications. Although the investment was approved by local authorities, the European Commission challenged the construction subsidy, arguing that it provided an unjustified competitive advantage over the nearby Gdańsk Airport. In 2014, the company managing the airport declared bankruptcy, and in 2016 the Supreme Audit Office confirmed the validity of the investment. In 2021, the municipality of Kosakowo purchased the airport, and its operations have since focused on General Aviation. Interestingly, the airport grounds host the annual Open’er Festival, attracting music fans from across Poland and beyond.