Lublin to host CONNECT 2026

I am pleased that, together with our partners, we will host CONNECT Aviation 2026 – an event of strategic importance for the city and the region. As a local government, we consistently invest in initiatives that enhance Lublin’s international visibility. The Congress is a unique opportunity to present a modern and dynamically developing metropolitan area. We are proud to welcome representatives of the aviation industry from around the world, and we are convinced that this event will open new avenues of cooperation for Lublin and the entire region. We are ready for further ambitious projects, says Krzysztof Żuk, Mayor of Lublin.

In February next year, aviation experts from across the globe will meet in Lublin to discuss the development of air route networks, which is expected to significantly strengthen the image of both the city and the Lublin region as an important destination on Europe’s aviation map.

During CONNECT Aviation 2026, we will showcase our region to participants – not only its tourist attractions, but also its economic potential. We have an airport, strong road infrastructure and innovative entrepreneurs eager to enter international markets. The aviation congress is an excellent moment to further increase the region’s recognition, says Jarosław Stawiarski, Marshal of the Lublin Voivodeship.

Benefits for the city and the region

There is no doubt that the choice of Lublin as the host of this year’s Congress will significantly strengthen the tourism potential of both the city and the region. CONNECT will help solidify Lublin Airport’s position by facilitating cooperation with new airlines and airports. Proposals for new air connections will improve transport accessibility for residents across the region as well as neighbouring provinces. The event will also generate substantial business benefits, increasing international investors’ interest in our region and reinforcing its position on Europe’s transport map. Family-run SMEs, known for their sustainable growth and innovation, will have the opportunity to present their offer to potential foreign partners. Additionally, hosting the event in February, a period of lower tourist traffic, will extend the tourist season and increase activity for Lublin’s hotels, restaurants, transport companies, and cultural institutions.

Lublin’s aviation heritage

We are proud to host one of the world’s most important aviation events – organised in Poland for the first time. The catalyst for this unprecedented event is our airport, and I am confident it will also be one of its beneficiaries. The CONNECT will be a unique occasion for the region, the city and the aviation industry, and further proof that the decision taken by local governments to build an airport for the Lublin region was the right one. Despite its relatively short history, Lublin Airport has steadily built its position as a gateway to the world for eastern Poland and a driver of regional development, says Krzysztof Matuszczyk, CEO of Lublin Airport.

The three-day Congress will be held in Poland for the first time – and it is no coincidence that Lublin was chosen as its host. Over 100 years ago, the first aviation manufacturing plant in independent Poland was established here by Emil Plage and Teofil Laśkiewicz, pioneers of Polish aviation. The origins of Poland’s aviation industry date back to 1920. The factory, located on Fabryczna Street, produced aircraft for the Polish military and civil aviation. It was here that the legendary Lublin R-XIII was built, along with 15 R-XIV aircraft, which were delivered to the army. Today, history comes full circle – conversations about the future of aviation will once again take place in Lublin, this time at CONNECT.

Organisers:

The Lubelskie Voivodeship, the City of Lublin, the Lublin Conference Center, Lublin Airport, The Lublin Metropolitan Tourism Organisation, and the Lublin Regional Tourism Organisation.