Kraków-Balice Airport

John Paul II International Airport Kraków-Balice, located 11 km west of Kraków, is the second busiest airport in Poland in terms of passenger traffic. The history of the airport dates back to 1923, when passenger flights were operated from the Rakowice-Czyżyny airfield. In 1964, part of the military airport in Balice was adapted for civilian use, and international air traffic was inaugurated in 1967. The airport, which has borne the name of John Paul II since 1995, has undergone a series of modernizations, including the opening of a new terminal in 2007 and subsequent expansions, with plans to handle 12 million passengers annually. In 2014, Poland's first railway line to an airport was launched, and it is currently operated by Małopolskie Railways. The airport is also known for serving various low-cost airlines, contributing to its dynamic growth. Interestingly, in 2007, the airport served its 3 millionth passenger, and in 2018, it set a record by handling 6.7 million travelers. Kraków Airport collaborates with three ground handling companies that offer a wide range of services. The airport also works with the EPKK Spotters association, which supports aviation enthusiasts. The master plan for expansion includes further infrastructure investments, such as the construction of a new runway and a cargo terminal. The airport is also located near an 8-million-strong metropolitan area, underscoring its strategic importance for the region.