Chopin Airport in Warsaw is seeing the start of the summer travel season, with passenger numbers rising as work continues to replace security scanners. The changes are lengthening security checks and pushing more travellers to consider paying for faster screening.

The airport’s fast track service, which allows passengers to move more quickly through security, has risen in price to 55 zloty, adding to the cost for travellers who want to avoid longer queues. The fee increase comes as the airport handles more passengers and security procedures take longer than usual.

Travellers at Poland’s busiest airport are now facing a busier terminal and slower processing at security points at the same time. The combination is likely to affect holidaymakers in the coming weeks as the summer peak gathers pace.

Work to replace the security screening equipment is under way as part of the airport’s operations. While such upgrades are intended to improve procedures in the long term, they are currently contributing to delays for passengers passing through the checkpoint.

Fast track has become one of the main options for people trying to cut waiting times. At 55 zloty, the service is no longer a low-cost add-on for many travellers, but it may still appeal to families, business passengers and anyone catching a tight connection.

The timing is significant because the rise in passenger numbers usually brings longer queues even without major works in progress. With both factors happening together, some travellers may need to allow extra time before departure.

Airports often see their highest demand during the summer months, and Chopin Airport is no exception. The current situation suggests that early planning could matter more than usual for people flying from Warsaw.

For passengers, the immediate choice is simple: pay more for a faster route through security or join the standard line and wait longer. As the holiday season builds, that decision may become more common.