LOT Polish Airlines expands into the U.S. market: codeshare with JetBlue and new lounge in Chicago

Ismael Awad-Risk

LOT Polish Airlines has launched a codeshare partnership with the American airline JetBlue Airways. Until now, both companies had been cooperating under an interline agreement. The expansion of this collaboration entails offering passengers improved connectivity between Poland and the United States starting from the winter season of 2023/2024.

This means that passengers will have the opportunity to travel the entire route with a single ticket and under uniform fare conditions, including baggage. The itinerary has been carefully designed to ensure that travelers can reach their destinations in the United States with the shortest possible layovers.

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Robert Ludera, Director of Network Development at LOT Polish Airlines, highlighted that this agreement with JetBlue «broadens the range of options for customers traveling between Poland and the United States, leveraging our partner’s extensive network. Furthermore, we will welcome JetBlue’s customers on LOT flights, providing them with connections to both Poland and destinations in Central and Eastern Europe.» Tickets will be available in the coming weeks. Currently, LOT operates flights from the United States to Warsaw, Krakow, and Rzeszow.

The codeshare with United was not renewed

United and LOT, both members of Star Alliance, allowed their codeshare agreement to expire without renewal. This occurred during the last week of September.

United sold tickets on LOT routes from Warsaw and Poland to Amsterdam, Brussels, Frankfurt, and London Heathrow Airport. On the other hand, LOT used the codeshare on 17 routes operated by United, all from Chicago. However, the airlines did not have a codeshare agreement on flights between Poland and the United States.

LOT will build a new VIP lounge at Chicago Airport

LOT Polish Airlines has announced that it will begin construction of its first VIP lounge in North America, which will be located at Chicago O’Hare Airport. This destination is strategic in the U.S. market for the airline due to the potential traffic of Poles and other ethnicities residing in the metropolitan area.

The new lounge will integrate a modern workspace with a relaxation area and a dining area. Its design will incorporate elements of Polish tradition, such as the use of amber. The opening is scheduled for late third quarter or early fourth quarter of 2024.

Render del Lounge VIP de LOT en Chicago O'Hare

Chicago holds great significance for LOT. The city represents a crucial destination in the United States, especially for Polish-Americans. The airline is finalizing the interior design and has hired a Chicago-based architectural firm to collaborate on the project. Izabela Leszczyńska, Director of Product Development and Customer Experience at LOT, expressed her enthusiasm. «I am truly delighted to announce the construction of our lounge at O’Hare Airport. Our goal is for this space to symbolize the warm Polish hospitality for which LOT is known.»

The new lounge will cover a total area of 617 square meters and will be located in the center of the terminal. One of its standout features will be a panoramic view of the airport’s apron. Inside, passengers will have access to three distinct areas: a workspace equipped with laptop tables and charging stations, a dining area with a variety of culinary options, and a relaxation zone designed for those seeking a moment of peace and privacy.

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