Suwalki Airfield

Suwalki Airfield is a modern and welcoming aerial gateway to one of the most picturesque regions of Poland, often referred to as the "Land of a Thousand Lakes." Located in the northeast of the country, this facility has become a vital hub for business and private aviation, offering travelers the opportunity to land in immediate proximity to unique nature reserves. Far removed from the hustle and bustle of major international hubs, an atmosphere of tranquility and exclusivity reigns here, perfectly suited for pilots of light aircraft and business jets wishing to begin their exploration of Masuria in comfort.

Features and Advantages of the Airfield:

The airfield has undergone extensive modernization and, since 2020, boasts a new concrete runway 1320 meters in length, allowing it to accommodate light passenger aircraft, turboprops, and business jets weighing up to 10-12 tons. This opens up excellent opportunities for tourists traveling on their own or chartered aircraft.

A significant advantage is the presence of a modern lighting system, making take-offs and landings possible even after dark. An air ambulance service is based on the premises, indicating high safety standards and infrastructure readiness. Access to fuel (Avgas 100LL and Jet A-1) is provided for pilots and guests, and the proximity to the city allows you to reach the center of Suwalki in just a few minutes by taxi.

• Official Airfield Website: lotnisko.suwalki.pl
• Information Service Phone: +48 512 333 330 (administration, arrival, and service inquiries)
• Airfield Address: ul. Wojczyńskiego 1, 16-400 Suwałki, Poland
• Email: lotnisko@zdiz.suwalki.pl
• Social Media: Current news and notifications are published on the official Lotnisko Suwałki Facebook page.
• Lost Luggage Information: Due to the airfield's status (General Aviation) and the absence of regular passenger flights, there is no separate lost and found office. If items are lost, please contact the administration directly at +48 512 333 330.
• Support Contacts: All operational questions and passenger inquiries are handled by the management company ZDiZ Suwałki (Road and Greenery Authority) through the communication channels listed above.

Since Suwalki Airfield is located just 3 kilometers from the city center, getting there is quick and inexpensive. Logistics here are as simple and convenient as possible, befitting a facility dedicated to light aviation where time and comfort are valued.

Taxi and Transfer

This is the most popular and convenient way to reach the airfield. The trip from the city center takes only 7–10 minutes. Both local taxi services and popular ride-hailing apps operate in Suwalki. A car can be ordered via a dispatcher or mobile application. The estimated cost of the trip is about 20–30 PLN, making this option affordable for most travelers.

If you are arriving by private flight, many business jet operators can arrange a premium individual transfer directly to the aircraft steps upon prior request.

Public Transport

The city bus network (ZKM Suwałki) covers the main districts of the city. Although there are no direct routes entering the airfield territory itself, the nearest public transport stops are on Wojska Polskiego Street, from where you can walk to the airfield entrance (about 10-15 minutes). This is a budget option: a bus ticket costs around 2.50–3.00 PLN. However, given the nature of the airfield and the presence of luggage, this method is rarely used.

Car Rental

Car rental agencies operate in Suwalki. You can rent a car in the city and drive to the airfield yourself. The route from the center usually runs along Wojska Polskiego street, then a turn onto Wojczyńskiego street. The road is of high quality and not congested. Some rental companies offer a car delivery service directly to the airfield by the time your plane arrives.

Parking

There is a parking zone directly near the administrative building and airfield hangars. Unlike large international hubs, there are no complex multi-level parking lots or high tariffs here. Parking for guests and pilots is generally free or has a nominal cost, and the spaces are located within walking distance of the runway.

Alternative Airports for Regular Flights

Since the airfield in Suwalki accepts only private and sports aviation, tourists planning to fly via commercial airlines usually use the nearest international and regional airports, after which they reach Suwalki by ground transport:

• Kaunas Airport (Lithuania) — the nearest major hub, located approximately 125 km away. A popular choice for low-cost carriers.
• Olsztyn-Mazury Airport (Poland) — located 145 km away and convenient for those traveling domestically.
• Vilnius International Airport (Lithuania) — the main air gateway of neighboring Lithuania, located 167 km away, offering a wide route map.
• Khrabrovo (Russia) — located 175 km away; however, when planning a route, the necessity of border crossing and visa regulations should be considered.
• Brest Airport (Belarus) — located at a distance of about 228 km.

Recommendations

When planning a departure or arrival at Suwalki Airfield, it is strongly recommended to contact the administration in advance to clarify the possibility of driving directly to the hangars, especially if you have a lot of luggage or require special assistance.

Structure and Features of the Terminal Complex

Since Suwalki Airfield operates as a General Aviation airport and does not serve regular commercial airlines, the system familiar to large hubs with multiple terminals, gates, and jet bridges is absent here. The facility's infrastructure is designed to be as compact and functional as possible to meet the needs of private pilots, business jet owners, and emergency services.

Number of Terminals and Their Purpose

There is one main administrative and operational building on the airfield territory. It functions as a terminal for all arriving and departing guests. There is no division into "Terminal 1" or "Terminal 2." Concentrated in this building are:

• Airport administration and management company.
• Crew pre-flight preparation rooms (briefing room).
• Rest area for pilots and passengers.
• Restrooms and technical facilities.

Navigation Map and Transitions

Navigation around the territory is extremely simple and intuitive. Getting lost here is practically impossible. The path from the entrance to the aircraft takes mere minutes.

• Parking — Building: The parking zone is located in immediate proximity to the administrative building.
• Building — Apron: Access to the runway and aircraft parking stands is via the administrative building or through special gates for transport (upon coordination with security).
• Transitions: Due to the presence of only one functional zone, there is no need for transfers or long walks.

Departure and Arrival Zones

Unlike large international airports, Suwalki does not have strictly separated "airside" and "landside" zones with passport control and customs (as the airport primarily serves domestic flights and flights within the Schengen area). The process is organized on the principle of VIP service:

• Departure: Passengers arrive at the appointed time, complete brief formalities in the administrative building, and proceed immediately to the aircraft.
• Arrival: After landing and taxiing, the aircraft stops on the apron in front of the building. Guests can head straight to their transfer or taxi.

Features and Processing Times

The main feature of Suwalki Airfield is the absence of queues. You do not need to arrive 2–3 hours before departure.

• Check-in and Screening: For private flights, these procedures are minimized. Document and security checks (if required) usually take from 5 to 15 minutes.
• Boarding: Carried out on foot across the apron. This allows passengers to personally observe the aircraft preparation and enjoy the aviation atmosphere.

Navigation Recommendations for Tourists

If you are departing from Suwalki, orient yourself towards Wojczyńskiego street. Upon arriving at the main entrance, contact your flight representative or the administration. Please note that boarding often takes place in the open air, so dress according to the weather, as telescopic bridges and buses are not provided here.

The history of aviation in this picturesque corner of Poland began long before the appearance of modern infrastructure. Suwalki Airfield is inextricably linked with the activities of the Suwalki Aeroclub (Aeroklub Suwalski), which has used this site for decades as a base for training pilots, glider pilots, and parachutists. For many years, the facility was a classic grass airfield serving exclusively sporting purposes and small recreational aviation.

A key stage in the facility's history was the realization of the need to overcome so-called "transport exclusion." Suwalki, being at a significant distance from the country's main highways and major airports, needed an air bridge for business and tourism development. The idea of modernizing the old sports airfield into a full-fledged facility for receiving business jets was discussed by city authorities for several years.

Chronology of the Massive Reconstruction:

The decisive turn occurred in the second half of the 2010s. In 2018, a tender was announced, and shortly thereafter, construction work began, completely changing the appearance of the airfield. The project became a unique example of cooperation between local government and private business. A significant portion of the funds (10 million PLN) for construction was allocated by the major furniture company Forte, whose factories are located nearby. This is a rare case in the history of Polish aviation where a private investor invests such large sums into public city infrastructure.

The official opening of the renovated airfield took place on August 8, 2020. This event became a true celebration for the city. On this day, the new concrete runway, 1320 meters long, received its first aircraft, which included both light training planes and turboprop machines. The opening was accompanied by an aviation picnic called "Odlotowe Suwałki", which has since become a traditional event attracting thousands of spectators.

Interesting Facts and Achievements:

• Gliding Capital: Thanks to the region's unique thermal conditions, Suwalki Airfield is historically considered one of the best places in Poland for gliding. National and international competitions are regularly held here, and local pilots often set records for flight distance and duration.
• Construction Speed: The main phase of transforming the grass field into a modern airfield with a concrete runway, taxiways, and an apron took less than a year and a half, which is an excellent indicator for infrastructure projects of this level.
• Strategic Importance: The reconstruction allowed the airfield to be used for the needs of the Air Ambulance Service (LPR) around the clock and in any weather, significantly increasing the safety of the region's residents.

Today, Suwalki Airfield continues to develop, remaining a symbol of the city's ambitions and its desire to be open to the world, while maintaining the cozy atmosphere of a club for those in love with the sky.

The infrastructure and service at Suwalki Airfield differ significantly from what passengers at large international hubs are accustomed to. Since this facility is designed to serve General Aviation (private, business, and sports aviation), there are no huge duty-free zones or food courts here. Services and amenities are organized to ensure maximum speed of service and privacy, eliminating unnecessary waiting.

Dining and Shops

There are no full-service restaurants, cafes, or Duty-Free shops on the airfield territory. This is due to the specific nature of the facility's operations: passengers on private flights usually do not spend much time here.

• Beverages: In the administrative building, guests and pilots can be offered coffee, tea, or water.
• Catering: For departing business jets, it is possible to organize the delivery of in-flight catering by prior arrangement through the flight operator or local restaurants.
• Recommendation: If you plan to have lunch or dinner, it is best to do so in the city. The center of Suwalki with its gastronomic establishments is just a 5–10 minute taxi ride away.

Lounges and Business Services

Instead of classic business lounges with turnstiles, an intimate atmosphere prevails here.

• Rest Area: The main administrative building features a comfortable waiting area for passengers and a rest room for crews. Here you can relax on soft furnishings before departure.
• Business Capabilities: A conference room (usually combined with the pilot briefing room) is available for express meetings or briefings. Use of the room must be coordinated with the administration in advance.
• Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available on the premises for guests. Charging points for mobile devices and laptops are also provided.

Financial Services

Please note that there are no ATMs or currency exchange points directly at the airfield. Payment of airport fees (for pilots) is usually made by card via a terminal in the administration office or by bank transfer. Travelers are strongly advised to carry the necessary amount of cash in Polish Zloty (PLN) or a bank card to pay for taxis and other expenses in the city.

Medical Assistance and Safety

Despite its compact size, the level of safety at the facility is very high.

• Emergency Aid: The airfield serves as a base for the helicopters of the Polish Medical Air Rescue (LPR). This guarantees the presence of qualified medical personnel on the base territory, ready to provide first aid in emergency situations.
• Pharmacies: There is no pharmacy kiosk for passengers in the terminal. The nearest 24-hour pharmacies are located within the city limits of Suwalki.

Passengers with Children and Limited Mobility

The airfield infrastructure is extremely friendly to groups with reduced mobility thanks to its simple layout.

• Accessibility: The administrative building is single-story, eliminating the need for elevators or escalators. The absence of jet bridges and buses allows vehicles to drive (upon agreement) almost to the aircraft side, making boarding and disembarking maximally comfortable for passengers with disabilities.
• For Children: Specialized playrooms or changing tables are not provided. However, the process of watching small aircraft take off and land from close range usually generates great interest among young travelers.

Hotels Near the Airfield

There are no hotels on the airfield territory itself, but thanks to the proximity to the city (only 3 km), finding accommodation is not a problem. Here are a few popular accommodation options nearby:

• Hotel Loft 1898 — a stylish hotel in a renovated historic building of former barracks. It offers a high level of comfort, a restaurant, and a SPA zone. Located approximately 4 km from the airfield.
• Hotel Szyszko — a modern hotel with convenient access, ideally suited for transit travelers and business tourists.
• Velvet Hotel & Restaurant — located in the very center of Suwalki, convenient for those who want to walk around the city after their flight.

Due to the specific nature of Suwalki Airfield (ZWK) as a general aviation facility, the public catering zone with restaurants, food courts, and bars familiar to large airports is absent here. The terminal is not divided into extensive "airside" and "landside" zones with shops and cafes. Nevertheless, passengers and crews will not go hungry if they plan their journey in advance, taking local features into account.

Dining on the Airfield Territory

Directly within the administrative building, dining options are limited to a "lounge zone" format for short stays:

• Beverages: A coffee machine, tea, and drinking water are usually available in the rest area for pilots and passengers. This is a complimentary hospitality option.
• Snacks: There are no vending machines or snack kiosks on the premises. It is recommended to bring a light snack with you if you anticipate waiting.

In-flight Catering and VIP Service

For passengers of private flights and business jets, the main method of organizing meals is ordering catering. This is a service that must be arranged in advance (at least 24 hours) through your flight operator or the airfield administration.

• Assortment: The menu is formed individually. Delivery of dishes from the best restaurants in Suwalki is possible.
• Special Diets: Options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Halal menus are available specifically through the catering service.
• Format: Food is delivered in special containers, ready for serving on board.

Gastronomy Nearby (Suwalki)

Since the road from the airfield to the city center takes only 7–10 minutes by taxi, passengers are strongly advised to visit local establishments before departure or immediately upon arrival. Suwalki and the Podlachia region are famous for unique cuisine combining Polish, Lithuanian, and Tatar traditions.

What to Try (Local Specialties):

• Kartacze: The region's main dish. These are large oval dumplings made from potato dough with a meat filling, generously topped with onions. It is a hearty dish, perfect for a full lunch.
• Sękacz: A traditional cake baked over an open fire on a rotating spit. In appearance, it resembles a tree with knots. An excellent dessert option or a souvenir to take away.
• Fresh Fish: Thanks to the location in the lake district, menus in local restaurants always feature fresh vendace (sielawa), eel, or pike.

Recommendations for Establishments in the City:

In the center of Suwalki (within a 3–5 km radius of the airfield), you will find establishments of various categories:

• Traditional Restaurants (Kuchnia Regionalna): Here they serve Kartacze and Lithuanian cuisine. Ideal for a substantial meal. Average bill: 30–50 PLN per person. Opening hours: usually from 11:00 to 22:00.
• Quick Bites: There are many bakeries (Piekarnia) and cafe-bistros in the city where you can buy fresh pastries or sandwiches if you have little time before departure.
• Vegetarian Options: Most modern restaurants in Suwalki have "Bez mięsa" (meat-free) menu sections, including dumplings with berries or cottage cheese, potato pancakes (placki ziemniaczane), and salads.

Price Range

Suwalki is distinguished by very reasonable prices compared to Warsaw or Krakow. A full two-course lunch with a drink in a good restaurant will cost approximately 40–60 PLN. Coffee and dessert will cost around 15–20 PLN.

Traveling through Suwalki Airfield (ZWK) is an experience radically different from flying through major international hubs. Since only General Aviation is served here, many familiar rules of scheduled transport work differently or are absent altogether. To ensure your flight proceeds as comfortably as possible, we have prepared a series of useful tips adapted to the specifics of private and business aviation.

Optimal Arrival Time

Forget the rule of "arriving 2–3 hours early." In Suwalki, efficiency is valued.

• For Departure: Arriving at the airfield 20–30 minutes before the scheduled take-off time is sufficient. This is plenty of time to meet the aircraft captain, load luggage, and undergo a brief briefing.
• For Greeters: Since planes do not circle in holding patterns here but approach for landing almost immediately, it is recommended to be on-site 10–15 minutes before the estimated arrival time.

Check-in and Security Control

There are no long queues, check-in counters, or metal detector gates that you are used to in large terminals.

• Documents: Keep your passport or ID card handy. Document verification (if required for your flight) is carried out by an administration staff member or directly by the crew commander before boarding.
• Security: Screening is conducted quickly and individually. The main rule is to follow the instructions of the staff and pilot, especially when on the apron near operating engines.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane

In private aviation, the concept of "seat assignment" is absent, but there are nuances that will make the flight unforgettable:

• Best View: Suwalki is located in the lake district. Ask the pilot which side will offer the best view of Wigry or other lakes during take-off or landing.
• Co-pilot Seat: If you are flying on a small aircraft (e.g., Cessna or Piper) and operational rules allow, ask about the possibility of sitting in the front seat next to the pilot. This offers unique emotions and the chance to see the flight management process.

Hand Luggage and Baggage

The main limiting factor in light aviation is weight and dimensions, not airline rules.

• Type of Bags: It is strongly recommended to use soft travel bags instead of rigid plastic suitcases. The luggage compartments of light aircraft and business jets often have non-standard shapes, and soft luggage is much easier and safer to stow there.
• Prohibited Items: Despite the privacy, IATA safety rules apply here too. Explosives, flammable liquids, and dangerous items are strictly prohibited for transport. Questions regarding the transport of specific cargo (e.g., hunting equipment) need to be coordinated with the flight operator in advance.

Recommendations for Transfer Passengers

Suwalki Airfield is not a transit hub. Usually, it is the final or starting point of a route.

• Planning Connections: If you arrive in Poland on a scheduled flight (e.g., to Warsaw or Gdansk) and then transfer to a private aircraft to Suwalki, allow time for the transfer between terminals at the first airport. In Suwalki, a "tail-to-tail" transfer is only possible with the coordinated arrival of two private vessels.

Customs Control

The airfield primarily serves domestic Polish flights and flights within the Schengen area.

• Borders: If your flight arrives from a non-Schengen country, border and customs control must be requested in advance (at least 24–48 hours), as there are no permanent border guard posts at the airfield. Clarify this point with your air broker to avoid legal difficulties.

Tips for Saving Time and Money

• Transfer: Do not overpay for taxi waiting time. Cars in Suwalki arrive quickly (5–7 minutes), so call a taxi via an app after landing, while the plane is taxiing to the stand.
• Dining: Do not count on buying food at the airfield. It is much more cost-effective and tastier to eat in the city before departure. Prices in Suwalki restaurants are significantly lower than in capital city establishments.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

Light aviation is more dependent on weather conditions (wind, fog, storms) than large liners.

• Plan "B": If departure is delayed for several hours, do not sit in the airfield building. The city center is only 3 km away — go for a walk or return to the hotel.
• Communication: Exchange contacts directly with the pilot. This is the fastest way to get up-to-date information about the weather and departure time, bypassing intermediaries.