Lithuanian Airports and LOT Polish Airlines Forge New Agreement for Vilnius-London City Flights

Lithuanian Airports, the government-owned operator overseeing Lithuania’s three international airports, has inked a fresh pact with LOT Polish Airlines, Poland’s national carrier. The agreement, unveiled on September 25, 2023, cements the continuation of direct flights between Vilnius Airport (VNO) and London City Airport (LCY). Notably, this arrangement departs from the previous subsidy-based public service obligation model, with both parties now sharing the financial risks and rewards associated with these flights.

The flights connecting Vilnius and London City, inaugurated in May 2019, hold significant strategic value for Lithuania. They offer a seamless and efficient travel option for both business and leisure travelers journeying between the two capital cities. These flights are efficiently serviced by Embraer E190 aircraft, accommodating up to 106 passengers across a two-class configuration. Departing Vilnius at 7:00 a.m., they touch down at London City by 8:10 a.m. local time. Return flights from London City commence at 8:50 a.m., arriving at Vilnius by 1:20 p.m. local time. The flights operate on a five-day-a-week schedule, with services available on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.

The new agreement adopts a long-term partnership model, requiring both parties to actively contribute to the route’s promotion and development while sharing revenues and expenses. This approach affords greater adaptability to market dynamics and passenger preferences. The agreement remains in effect until October 31, 2027.

Marius Skuodis, Lithuania’s Minister of Transport and Communications, lauded the agreement as a prime example of collaboration between project management and national institutions. He emphasized that this model ensures the route’s continuity and sustainability and expressed optimism that Lithuanian Airports can employ a similar approach to secure other crucial destinations for the country.

Rafał Milczarski, CEO of LOT Polish Airlines, expressed his satisfaction with extending the collaboration with Lithuanian Airports. He expressed confidence in the continued robust demand for this route and affirmed LOT Polish Airlines’ commitment to delivering high-quality service and competitive pricing to customers traveling this route.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com, simpleflying.com, lrt.lt