Overview
Katowice International Airport, also known as Katowice-Pyrzowice Airport, is the main international airport in Silesia region of Poland. It is located approximately 30 kilometers north of the city of Katowice and serves as a hub for several airlines, including Ryanair and Wizz Air. The airport was opened in June 1966 and has since undergone multiple renovations and expansions.
In 2019, the airport handled over 4 million passengers, making it one of the busiest airports in the country. It offers both domestic and international flights to over 50 destinations around the world, including popular locations such as London, Dublin, Barcelona, and Rome. The airport is also a popular gateway to nearby cities such as Kraków and Wrocław.
Katowice International Airport has modern facilities and amenities for travelers, including restaurants, cafes, shops, and duty-free stores. There are also several car rental companies located at the airport, making it easy for visitors to explore the surrounding area on their own. The airport is easily accessible via public transportation, with several buses and trains connecting it to nearby cities and towns.
Overall, Katowice International Airport is a modern and convenient transportation hub that connects travelers to destinations around the world. With its excellent facilities, easy accessibility, and wide range of flight options, it is an ideal airport for both leisure and business travelers visiting the region.
Terminals at Katowice International Airport
Katowice International Airport, also known as the Pyrzowice Airport, has two terminals – Terminal A and Terminal B. Terminal A is the older of the two and is used for domestic flights, while Terminal B is the newer and larger one, accommodating international flights.
Both terminals have a range of facilities including restaurants, cafes, duty-free stores, and ATMs. Terminal B is more modern and spacious, with a greater range of shops and restaurants, and increased seating. It is designed to handle up to 3.6 million passengers per year, while Terminal A can handle approximately 1 million.
The terminals are connected by a free shuttle bus service that runs every 15 minutes, making it easy for passengers to transfer between the two. The airport also offers a VIP lounge for passengers who want to relax in comfort before their flight.
The airport’s unique design makes it easy for passengers to navigate their way around. Both terminals have a single security checkpoint, which means that passengers do not have to go through security again if they need to transfer between flights.
Passengers traveling with children will appreciate the family-friendly facilities available at the airport. There are several baby-changing rooms, play areas, and a family lounge where parents can relax and keep an eye on their children.
Overall, the terminals at Katowice International Airport offer a range of facilities and services to ensure that passengers have a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. With its easy navigation, modern design, and family-friendly facilities, the airport is a popular choice for travelers visiting the Silesia region of Poland.
Airlines and Destinations
A number of airlines operate from Katowice International Airport, both for domestic and international routes.
The airport is a hub for Wizz Air, which offers flights to numerous destinations across Europe, including London, Rome, Barcelona, and Tel Aviv.
Other airlines that operate from Katowice include Ryanair, LOT Polish Airlines, and Lufthansa. Ryanair offers flights to a variety of European cities, while LOT Polish Airlines provides connections to Warsaw and other domestic destinations.
Lufthansa offers routes to destinations such as Frankfurt, Munich, and Düsseldorf.
Seasonal changes do occur at the airport, with some airlines offering fewer or different routes during the winter months. However, many airlines continue to operate year-round, making Katowice International Airport a convenient option for both business and leisure travelers.
Transportation Options at Katowice International Airport
As one of the main international airports in Poland, Katowice International Airport offers several transportation options for travelers. For those looking for a convenient and hassle-free way to get to their destination, shuttle services are available. The airport’s official partner, SkyTaxi, provides private transfers to any location within and beyond Poland, while Shuttle4You offers shared rides to popular destinations such as Krakow and Wroclaw.
Car rental services are also readily available at the airport, with companies such as Avis, Hertz, and Europcar offering a wide range of vehicles to choose from. These can be booked online or on-site, and are ideal for travelers who prefer the independence and flexibility of having their own transportation.
For budget-conscious travelers, shuttle buses are a cost-effective option. Koleje Slaskie operates a direct shuttle service between the airport and Katowice’s main train station, with frequent departures throughout the day. From there, passengers can connect to other destinations across Poland via the national rail network.
Speaking of trains, another popular transportation option from Katowice International Airport is taking the train directly from the airport. The airport has its own train station, offering easy access to both regional and long-distance destinations. It takes about 20 minutes by train to reach Katowice’s main train station and approximately an hour to get to Krakow.
Finally, taxis are available outside the airport terminal, but they tend to be more expensive than other options. As with most airports, it is advisable to use only licensed taxis and to agree on a price beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings or issues.
In conclusion, there are several transportation options available at Katowice International Airport, catering to the needs and preferences of different types of travelers. Whether you prefer the convenience of shuttle services, the flexibility of car rentals, the affordability of shuttle buses, or the speed and connectivity of the train network, you can easily get to your destination from the airport.
Parking at Katowice International Airport
Katowice International Airport offers several parking options for travelers. There are two main car parks located directly in front of the terminal building. The P1 car park is a multi-level facility, and the P2 car park is an open-air lot.
The rates for parking in the P1 car park start at 12 PLN (about $3) for up to 30 minutes, and go up to 80 PLN (about $21) for a full day. Alternatively, the P2 car park has a maximum daily rate of 60 PLN (about $16).
For those needing long-term parking options, there is also a remote car park located a short distance from the airport. Shuttle buses run regularly between the remote car park and the terminal building, making it a convenient option for extended stays.
The daily rate for parking in the remote car park is 35 PLN (about $9), with discounts available for longer stays. It’s important to note that all car parks at Katowice International Airport are monitored by security cameras and offer 24-hour surveillance for added peace of mind.
Check-In Procedures
At Katowice International Airport, passengers have several check-in options available to them. One method is online check-in, which is available from 24 hours to 1 hour before the scheduled departure time. This service allows passengers to select their seat and print their boarding pass, or have it sent to their mobile device.
Another option is self-service check-in, which is available at designated kiosks in the terminal. Passengers can scan their passport or enter their booking reference number, select their seat and print their boarding pass.
For those who prefer the traditional check-in method, there are check-in desks located in the terminal. Passengers can present their travel documents, receive assistance with luggage, and obtain their boarding pass.
Passengers should arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare, as the check-in process can take longer during peak travel periods. It is recommended that passengers arrive at least two hours prior to their scheduled departure time for domestic flights, and three hours for international flights.
Overall, the check-in process at Katowice International Airport is efficient and offers multiple options to accommodate different preferences. Whether checking in online, using a self-service kiosk, or visiting a check-in desk, passengers can easily complete the process and prepare for their flight.
Security Measures at Katowice International Airport
At Katowice International Airport, security is taken very seriously to ensure the safety of all passengers and airport staff.
All passengers are required to pass through a security checkpoint before entering the departure area. This includes a thorough screening of carry-on and checked baggage, as well as a body scan for the passenger.
To make the security process smoother, passengers are encouraged to empty their pockets, remove any metal items, and take off their jackets or belts before approaching the checkpoint.
Additionally, liquids must be in containers no larger than 100ml and placed in a clear plastic bag for easy inspection.
By following these guidelines and being prepared for the security process, travelers can help ensure a smooth and efficient experience at Katowice International Airport.
Customs and Immigration at Katowice International Airport
Arriving passengers are required to fill out an immigration form and present a valid passport or travel document. They may also be subject to an inspection by the customs officials who will check if they have any restricted or prohibited items.
After clearing immigration, passengers can retrieve their checked-in baggage, which will be available at the designated baggage claim area. They may then proceed through customs clearance, where they might be required to declare any goods exceeding the duty-free allowances.
Departing passengers should arrive at the airport with ample time before their flight to complete the check-in and security screening processes. They will need to present a valid passport and other travel documents, such as visas or permits, to the immigration officials.
After completing the necessary formalities, they may proceed to the gate area, where they will go through another security check before boarding their flight. It is advised to check the specific requirements for their destination country’s customs and immigration regulations before departing from Katowice International Airport.
Amenities
– ATMs
– Currency exchange
– Duty-free shops
– Restaurants and cafes
– Bars
– Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
– Information desks
– Prayer rooms
– Children’s play areas
– Smoking lounges
Katowice International Airport offers a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient travel experience. Passengers can easily access ATMs and currency exchange services, as well as indulge in duty-free shopping before their flight. There are plenty of dining options available, including sit-down restaurants, grab-and-go cafes, and bars for those looking for a drink. The airport also offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, information desks to answer any questions, and prayer rooms for spiritual needs. Families with children can take advantage of the children’s play areas, while smokers can make use of designated smoking lounges.
Accessibility Services
Katowice International Airport provides a wide range of facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues. These include wheelchair assistance, accessible toilets, and designated parking spaces close to the terminal building.
The airport also offers special assistance for visually impaired passengers, with tactile paving throughout the terminal to help guide them, and trained staff on hand to provide support. Additionally, there are hearing loops available for passengers who are hard of hearing.
Passengers can request assistance when booking their flight or upon arrival at the airport, but it is recommended to notify the airline in advance to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.
Connecting Flights at Katowice International Airport
Connecting flights at Katowice International Airport can be a seamless process if you know what to expect.
Upon arriving at the airport, follow the signage for connecting flights to reach the departure gate of your next flight.
Make sure to check the departure time and gate number of your connecting flight on the airport screens or through your airline app.
If your first flight is delayed and you might miss your connection, inform the airport staff as soon as possible to get assistance.
Remember to always have your passport, boarding pass, and any necessary documents ready for inspection.
If you have a long layover, explore the airport’s facilities such as shops and restaurants to pass the time.
Lastly, make sure to arrive at your connecting gate at least 30 minutes before departure time to avoid missing your flight.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arrival at Katowice International Airport, passengers should proceed to the baggage claim area, located in the arrivals hall.
Here, passengers can collect their checked luggage after presenting their baggage tags to the airport staff.
If a passenger’s baggage is missing, damaged, or delayed, they should report it immediately to the airline’s representative or to the airport’s lost baggage counter.
The passenger will need to fill out a form with information about their baggage and travel itinerary.
In the case of lost baggage, the airport staff will track down the luggage and arrange for it to be delivered to the passenger’s preferred location.
If the baggage is never found, the passenger may be eligible for compensation according to the airline’s policies.
It’s important for passengers to keep their baggage tags and any documents related to their travel, as they may be needed for the reporting process.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency, Katowice International Airport has highly trained personnel on-site to handle any situation.
The airport has a medical center equipped to handle medical emergencies. It is open 24/7 and staffed by doctors and nurses who are ready to treat any minor injuries or illnesses.
For more serious medical situations, the airport has a fully equipped ambulance service that can transport patients to nearby hospitals.
In addition, the airport has several defibrillators placed strategically throughout the terminals in case of sudden cardiac arrest.
Passengers with disabilities can also receive assistance from the airport’s Special Assistance team, who can provide wheelchair transportation, personal assistance, and other services as needed.
Overall, Katowice International Airport prioritizes passenger safety and well-being, and takes all necessary measures to ensure a safe and comfortable travel experience.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel accommodations available within or near Katowice International Airport. These hotels offer convenient access to the airport and comfortable stays for travelers.
Some of the hotels near Katowice International Airport include:
1. Courtyard by Marriott Katowice Airport (0.2 km)
2. Terminal Hotel (0.5 km)
3. Vienna House Easy Katowice (2 km)
4. Quality Silesian Hotel (2.7 km)
5. Hotel Wilga by Katowice Airport (3.5 km)
All of these hotels provide various amenities such as breakfast, Wi-Fi, and shuttle services to and from the airport. They also have restaurants and bars where guests can relax and enjoy meals or drinks.
Useful Tips:
– Arrive at the airport at least 1 hour before your flight’s departure.
– Check-in online to save time at the airport.
– Pack light and avoid carrying restricted items in your hand luggage.
– Grab a bite or drink at one of the airport’s cafes or restaurants.
– Use the free Wi-Fi to stay connected.
– Exchange currency or withdraw money from ATMs, as there aren’t many options once you leave the airport.
– Take advantage of duty-free shopping for souvenirs or gifts.
– Look for the “Quiet Room” if you need a break from the noise and crowds.
– Follow the signs and announcements to navigate the airport easily.
– Don’t forget to enjoy the modern architecture and art installations throughout the airport.
Contact Information
– General Information: +48 32 39 27 200
– Airport Information Desk: +48 32 39 27 315
– Lost and Found Office: +48 32 39 27 330
– Baggage Storage: +48 606 314 000
– Car Rental: +48 32 39 27 335
– Airport Police Station: +48 32 39 27 390
For more information, visit the airport’s website or inquire at the information desk upon arrival.
Airports Near Katowice International Airport
- John Paul II International Airport Kraków-Balice: Distance – 63.3 km; Transportation options – Train, bus, taxi.
- Wrocław–Copernicus Airport: Distance – 200 km; Transportation options – Train, bus, taxi.
- Łódź Władysław Reymont Airport: Distance – 157 km; Transportation options – Train, bus, taxi.
This section provides information about other airports near Katowice International Airport, including their distance and transportation options to reach them. Travelers can use this information to consider alternative flight options or plan for layovers and connecting flights.