Faster check-ins, improved passenger services, customized parking, and new direct flight connections—Prague Airport has revealed its ambitious plans for the upcoming years. Travelers can soon expect enhanced comfort and convenience when heading to the airport. Over 90% of the Czech public supports these improvements. By 2030, Prague Airport plans to offer 200 direct connections, including 37 long-distance routes, and add 10,000 new parking spaces. Moreover, the airport aims to achieve carbon neutrality.
Benefits of a Modernized Airport
A modern, competitive airport with sufficient capacity brings numerous advantages, benefiting Czech travelers, boosting the economy, and promoting sustainable tourism:
- Around 70% of Czech adults (aged 18-65) travel by air once or twice annually.
- Nine out of ten Czechs intend to travel by air within the next year.
- 91% of Czech citizens view tourism positively.
- 80% believe that air transport development is crucial for the nation’s economic growth.
- Over half the population say they cannot imagine giving up air travel.
Projected Growth in Passenger Numbers
International forecasts, such as the Airbus Global Market Forecast (2019-2038), predict the number of Czech air travelers could increase by up to 50% within the next decade. However, the current airport infrastructure is insufficient to accommodate this rising demand. Expanding airport capacity is essential to offer new connections that Czech passengers desire, including direct flights to attractive destinations such as Hong Kong, Tokyo, Hanoi, Miami, Boston, and Los Angeles.
Enhanced Rail Connectivity for a Quieter City
The planned railway link connecting the airport directly with Prague’s city center (Prague-Kladno line) will significantly enhance passenger convenience, cutting the travel time to just 25 minutes. The railway station will feature an island platform and underground connections to airport terminals.
Moreover, the parallel runway planned to open after 2030 will greatly reduce noise pollution for Prague residents. Approximately 50% fewer citizens will be affected by excessive aircraft noise. With sufficient daytime operational capacity, the airport will completely shut down between midnight and 5:30 am, further enhancing residents’ quality of life.
Economic Growth and Job Opportunities
No thriving economy, including the Czech Republic’s, can succeed without a modern airport and a robust network of international connections. Prague Airport’s expansion will attract foreign investment and create significant business opportunities.
For every additional 1 million passengers annually:
- Around 325,000 new tourists will visit, generating CZK 8.5 billion in local spending.
- Public budgets will receive an additional CZK 1.1 billion from tourism.
- The Czech GDP will rise by CZK 3.2 billion.
- Gross economic value added will increase by CZK 2.8 billion.
- Employment will grow by 3,849 full-time jobs.
Sustainable and Quality Tourism
The goal isn’t simply to increase the number of tourists but to attract sustainable visitors from distant markets. Sustainable tourists stay longer, use premium services, spend more, and actively engage with local culture and exploration. Sustainable tourism significantly contributes to economic growth, creates skilled jobs, supports regional development, respects local lifestyles, and protects the cultural, historical, and natural heritage of the Czech Republic.
Terminal Expansion from 2029 to 2033
Near-term plans focus on expanding Terminals 1 and 2, introducing innovative passenger handling processes, and creating new operational solutions. This expansion will boost passenger comfort, efficiently use existing spaces, and significantly improve facilities for long-haul flights. New commercial areas will enhance the overall passenger experience.
Long-term Vision and Additional Capacity
Future development phases include constructing additional boarding gates for long- and medium-haul aircraft and expanding passenger areas for arrivals and departures. This long-term vision ensures the airport remains flexible and can respond quickly to future passenger demand.
Introducing the Skywalk
The planned Skywalk, located along Aviatická Street, aims to improve pedestrian connections between the terminals and parking facilities. This innovative feature will provide passengers with a safe, direct, and comfortable way to move around the airport area.
Parallel Runway Post-2030
The new parallel runway will enhance operational safety, environmental sustainability, and efficiency. It will enable the airport to completely cease nighttime operations, significantly benefiting local residents. The construction of the parallel runway will result in the closure of the existing runway 12/30, freeing valuable space in densely populated areas of Prague and Kladno, presenting attractive new investment opportunities.
Improved Transport to the Airport by 2030
Several enhancements are planned to improve accessibility to Václav Havel Airport. This includes modifying areas in front of the terminals to ease car traffic and increase pedestrian safety. Elevated roads and modern traffic navigation systems will also be introduced alongside extended parking facilities.
Commitment to Carbon Neutrality
Prague Airport is dedicated to sustainability and reducing CO2 emissions. The airport aims to become carbon neutral and significantly enhance local biodiversity by 2030. Furthermore, noise pollution will be addressed with measures such as installing ventilation systems in 500 homes by 2025, alongside ongoing improvements in noise protection.
Key Benefits for Czech Citizens
- Global Connectivity: Direct flights to numerous global destinations.
- Economic Prosperity: Airport modernization will stimulate investments, international trade, create jobs, and boost economic growth.
- Better Quality of Life: Reduced noise pollution and improved nighttime quietness for residents.
- Sustainable Growth: A carbon-neutral airport attracting sustainable, high-value tourism that benefits local communities and preserves heritage.