Operational tests of the Supporting Terminal at Kraków Airport successfully completed

Scope and Purpose of the Tests

The objective of the tests was a thorough evaluation of the PBZ infrastructure (non-Schengen passenger handling zone) in terms of functionality, safety, and user-friendliness. Particular attention was given to:

• the correctness of the passenger journey—from border control to boarding,
• the flow efficiency of passengers and staff,
• the clarity of signage and visual information systems,
• accessibility of key areas (entrances, elevators, stairways, functional rooms),
• overall comfort for different user groups, including passengers with disabilities.

Course of the Night Tests

The tests began at 10:00 PM with participants gathering at the airport information point. Volunteers were divided into groups and directed to check-in counters, where they:

• received passes and identification vests,
• collected test packages (including a boarding pass with a survey, a pen, and a lunch set),
• attended briefings with supervisors.

Participants then followed the full passenger journey:

• security screening,
• passport control,
• free movement through the terminal guided by FIDS monitors.

The culmination was a simulated boarding and “departure,” during which buses transported passengers through airport infrastructure, ending the test in the arrivals hall.

Test Scenarios and Special Tasks

To replicate real operational conditions, additional scenarios were introduced:

• passengers directed to secondary security screening,
• simulations of travel with children (including airport strollers),
• VAT refund point testing,
• verification of accessibility features and PRM (Passengers with Reduced Mobility) infrastructure.

Each participant completed tasks outlined on their boarding pass, enabling a detailed assessment of individual terminal components.

Representatives of Mostostal Warszawa and the Kraków team were present during the tests, including Artur Sikora (Contract Group Director) and Mariusz Rudnik (Contract Manager for the Supporting Terminal project).

Test Conclusions

Participants positively evaluated:

• the efficiency of security and passport control,
• the spaciousness and modern design of the interiors,
• the intuitive functional layout of the terminal.

The tests also identified areas requiring adjustments, particularly regarding equipment in selected sanitary facilities for passengers with disabilities. All feedback has been forwarded for implementation before the terminal’s opening.

Organization and Scale

• approx. 240–300 volunteers,
• 30 airport staff acting as supervisors,
• additional operational observers,
• duration: 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM,
• simulated flights to destinations including London (STN, LPL), Chicago (ORD), and Sharjah (SHJ).

Catering facilities and participant service points were also activated for the tests.

Readiness for Launch

The operational tests confirmed the Supporting Terminal’s high level of readiness for passenger service. Collected data and surveys were used to introduce final improvements ahead of opening.

The first passengers were scheduled to be served the very next day, marking the symbolic transition from construction to full operation.

Next Stage of Airport Expansion

The commissioning of the Supporting Terminal marks the first phase of a broader airport expansion program. Authorities have already awarded the tender for the main passenger terminal expansion, with the most competitive bid—PLN 537.7 million net—submitted by Mostostal Warszawa.

Contract signing is expected soon, with design work and initial earthworks planned to begin later this year.

According to the current schedule:

• by 2029: capacity of approx. 16 million passengers annually,
• by 2032: capacity of approx. 20 million passengers annually after full expansion.

Photo: Mostostal Warszawa