Registration has opened for the 9th Congress of the Aviation Market, a gathering focused on the role of airports in regional investment, economic growth, labour shortages, climate goals and competition in the Polish aviation sector.
The event will examine whether all airports should be profitable, why Poland remains behind in air cargo despite being a strong G20 economy, and how national and regional airports can work together rather than compete.
Organisers said the congress will also address how the aviation industry can build stronger employer appeal in a fast-changing labour market. The event is being presented as a forum for debate on the future of airport strategy in Poland and its wider impact on travel and trade.
The congress comes as airports across Europe continue to face pressure from rising costs, changing passenger demand and environmental targets. For Poland, the questions raised by the event reflect broader tensions seen in many markets: how to balance profitability, connectivity and long-term public benefit.
Airports are often seen as more than transport hubs. Local governments and businesses frequently view them as anchors for investment, tourism and logistics, especially in regions trying to attract international companies or improve export capacity.
That makes the issue of airport profitability particularly sensitive. While major hubs may generate strong returns, many regional airports rely on wider economic arguments such as jobs, tourism spending and business links to justify continued expansion or public support.
Air cargo is another area under scrutiny. Poland has built a large and growing economy, but the sector has lagged behind what might be expected from its size and trade profile. The congress is expected to explore the reasons for that gap and what could be done to narrow it.
Labour supply also remains a major concern for aviation employers. Airports, airlines and service providers need staff across operations, safety, security, engineering and passenger handling, all while competing with other industries for skilled workers.
The event is likely to consider how employers can make aviation jobs more attractive in a market shaped by shifting expectations around pay, flexibility and career progression. That issue has become more pressing as the sector expands and adapts to new technologies and operating models.
Climate policy adds another layer of complexity. Aviation is under growing pressure to cut emissions, but airports and airlines must also maintain reliable operations and remain competitive against rivals in neighbouring markets.
That balance between environmental goals and business reality is now a central topic across the global aviation industry. For Poland, the debate may influence decisions on infrastructure, route development and the future division of roles between the national airport and regional networks.
The congress announcement signals a wider conversation about how aviation supports regional development. In many parts of Europe, airports are no longer judged only by passenger numbers, but by their contribution to trade, inward investment and access to markets.
For travel and transport professionals, the forum offers a chance to assess where Poland’s aviation strategy is heading. The questions on the agenda point to a sector that is trying to grow while also defending its economic relevance, responding to climate demands and finding enough people to keep it moving.
