The Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK), Poland’s flagship infrastructure project, has received a significant financial boost. In March 2025, the Polish government increased CPK’s share capital by PLN 1.9 billion (approx. €440 million). This supplements the PLN 3.5 billion (€810 million) tranche transferred in December 2024, reaffirming Poland’s commitment to advancing a high-impact national project combining a new airport and a high-speed rail network.
Project Overview: CPK Airport and High-Speed Rail
Located about 40 kilometers southwest of Warsaw in the municipality of Baranów, the CPK initiative has two key components:
New International Airport
Designed to relieve pressure on Warsaw Chopin Airport, the new CPK airport will initially accommodate 40 million passengers per year, with expansion plans for up to 100 million. Two 4,000-meter runways are planned for the first stage, with additional runways possible as demand increases. The terminal design emphasizes efficiency and passenger comfort.
High-Speed Rail Network
CPK also includes a modern high-speed rail system, aimed at transforming domestic and international travel. Travel times will be significantly reduced—for example:
- Warsaw to Łódź in about 45 minutes
- Warsaw to Wrocław or Poznań in roughly 100 minutes
This network will improve national connectivity and align Poland with European transport corridors.
Financial Breakdown: €30.8 Billion Investment by 2032
The total projected cost of the CPK project is PLN 131.7 billion (approx. €30.8 billion), with key allocations as follows:
Rail Infrastructure – €18 Billion
PLN 76.8 billion (58% of total investment) is allocated to the high-speed rail network.
Airport Development – €10.5 Billion
The airport budget stands at PLN 44.7 billion (34% of the budget). Funding includes:
- Up to PLN 9 billion (€2.1 billion) from Polish Airports (PPL)
- PLN 9.125 billion (€2.1 billion) from CPK’s own capital
Additional Infrastructure – €2.3 Billion
The remaining PLN 10.2 billion will fund roads, land acquisition, and supporting infrastructure.
Economic Impact and Strategic Benefits
The CPK initiative is not just about transportation—it’s a game-changer for Poland’s economy and strategic positioning.
Massive Job Creation
Construction and operations are expected to generate 150,000 new jobs, spanning sectors like construction, logistics, transport, and tourism.
Improved National and European Connectivity
Seamless integration between air and rail travel will make Poland a central hub in European transport, improving passenger and freight movement.
Balanced Regional Growth
Infrastructure investments will enhance development in underinvested regions, contributing to more balanced economic growth nationwide.
Key Challenges Ahead
Despite strong support, several challenges need to be addressed:
- Financial Oversight: Preventing cost overruns and ensuring transparent budget management is critical.
- Public Consultation: Local community concerns—especially regarding land expropriations—must be handled with care.
- Environmental Protection: Thorough impact assessments and mitigation plans are essential to reduce ecological disruption.
Conclusion
With the latest capital injection of €440 million, the Polish government has once again demonstrated its long-term vision for the CPK project. By strategically investing in modern infrastructure and addressing social and environmental concerns, Poland is positioning itself as a key player in the future of European mobility.
