Frontiers July 2014 39 CUSTOMER PROFILE The crane and the Dream LOT Polish Airlines is relying on the 787 for a bright future By Chamila Jayaweera In Poland, the common crane often symbolizes hope or regeneration. It’s a characterization the Polish national airline carrier, LOT, has embraced over its 85-year history, with a design of a crane in full flight displayed on the tails of its airplanes. The symbolism is especially timely as LOT, European launch customer for the 787, works to rebound from financial problems as well as early reliability issues with the Dreamliner, which led to negative media reports in Poland. “We have definitely seen our share of ups and downs,” said Sebastian Mikosz, chief executive officer for LOT Polish Airlines. But Mikosz said the airline has worked closely with Boeing to overcome the obstacles. “We are more committed than ever to restoring our company’s image,” he said. Established in 1929, LOT is one of the world’s oldest continuously operating airlines. Boeing’s relationship with LOT spans almost three decades, beginning with the carrier’s order of five 767s in 1988. The airline’s current Boeing fleet includes three 737s and six 787s, with two more on order. LOT took delivery of its first Dreamliner in 2012 and was first to operate the 787 in the European market. Mikosz said that helped the airline attract customers who wanted to experience the innovative airplane firsthand. He credits the Dreamliner with turning around the airline’s financial picture in 2013. “This is the first time in five years we have been able to report profits,” Mikosz said. “We credit Boeing’s Dreamliner with increasing the number of business- and premium-class passengers who fly with LOT.” The carrier vigorously promotes its long-haul flights connecting Europe to destinations such as Beijing, Toronto, Chicago and New York and showcases its partnership with the Star Alliance, a global airline network made up of more than two dozen member airlines. LOT also stands to benefit from growth in the European market. “We expect the European aviation market to grow over the next 20 years, with airlines in Europe looking at acquiring more than 7,400 new airplanes,” said Todd Nelp, vice president of European Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “That is a significant number, and we are confident LOT will be part of that growing equation as they build upon their strong legacy.” Mikosz said he looks forward to a strong future for LOT. “We are very excited to have a partner like Boeing as we look ahead,” he said. “Like the crane, which has persevered over the years by sheer instinct, those who make up the LOT team are also determined to keep flying strong.” n chamila.s.jayaweera@boeing.com PHOTO: LOT Polish Airlines took delivery of its first 787 Dreamliner, shown, in 2012. BOEING
Frontiers July 2014 Issue
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