Polish Flag Carrier Eyes Czech Airline Amid Expansion Plans

Polish flag carrier LOT is said to be nearing the acquisition of Smartwings, the largest airline in the Czech Republic. According to Polish media, LOT’s CEO Michał Fijoł was in Prague to negotiate the terms of the acquisition. Smartwings has a fleet of 41 active aircraft and operates primarily on leisure travel routes. This is not the first attempt by LOT to expand into Central European markets, with previous plans for a base in Budapest and nonstop flights to the US.