Ryanair, the Irish low-cost carrier, has announced its plans to construct a EUR 130 million simulator and training center near Kraków Airport in southern Poland. This facility will be Ryanair's first
of its kind in Central Europe.
The project was revealed by Ryanair's CEO, Michael O'Leary, during a media briefing in the historic city of Kraków. O'Leary stated that the new center would be equipped with cutting-edge flight simulators, including Poland's first Boeing 737 MAX simulator. The facility is expected to train up to 500 pilots, flight attendants, ground staff, and administrative workers daily, creating 150 new jobs within the airline industry.
According to O'Leary, the Kraków training center will be Ryanair's fifth major training facility in Europe and its first in this part of the continent. It will cater to crew members from various European countries, including Ukraine.
The establishment of the center will further enhance Ryanair's collaboration with Kraków, the Małopolskie region, and Kraków Airport. Currently, Ryanair operates a base in Kraków with nine aircraft stationed at Kraków Airport. The airline is also the primary carrier at the airport, accounting for 55% of the total flights handled.
Construction of the simulator and training center is set to commence early next year. The first four flight simulators are expected to be operational by 2025, with the center operating at full capacity by 2026.
Kraków Mayor Jacek Majchrowski expressed his appreciation for Ryanair's expanded presence in the city, recognizing Kraków Airport as a catalyst for growth, attracting tourists, investors, and creating employment opportunities.
Kraków Airport CEO Radosław Włoszek acknowledged Ryanair's decision to build the training center near the airport as a testament to the airport's status and flight connections. He emphasized that it would further stimulate the growth of Kraków Airport.
The Ryanair training center at Kraków Airport signifies a significant investment that will not only enhance the airline's operations but also contribute to the development of the aviation industry in the region. Photo by Wolny, Wikimedia commons.