Historic Airbus Order Marks Franco-Polish Political Reset

Airbus has secured a landmark deal with Polish carrier LOT for 40 A220 jets, signaling a significant investment and a political rapprochement between Poland and France. The order represents the largest in LOT's history, emphasizing economic and political considerations over past alliances with non-European suppliers.

In a pivotal move for the aviation industry, Airbus clinched a groundbreaking deal with Poland's national carrier, LOT, for 40 A220 jets. This transaction marks LOT's largest-ever investment and underscores a renewed political rapport between Poland and France, following extensive deliberations over competing bids from Brazil's Embraer.

The decision to select Airbus was primarily driven by economic factors, LOT's CEO Michal Fijol stated. However, the political implications were evident during a high-level conference attended by ministers and diplomats from Poland, France, and Canada. The deal reflects Poland's shift away from non-European suppliers to foster deeper European alliances.

This development arrives amid Poland's broader strategic realignments, including a treaty with France on defense and energy cooperation. Analysts perceive the Airbus order as part of Poland's efforts to mend ties with France after the controversial 2016 cancellation of a major helicopter contract, which had strained relations.

(With inputs from agencies.)