LOT’s $78 Warsaw Airport Limo Service To Aircraft

Mark this as “interesting” rather than “useful,” though it’s always fun to learn about airport services you didn’t know existed…

LOT’s paid Warsaw Airport limo service

I wrote about how LOT Polish Airlines opened its refreshed lounge in the Schengen area, which has been expanded and renovated. The changes look great, though there’s a mention in there of a service I wasn’t aware of.

Those who have access to one of LOT’s lounges can pay for an airport limo service, which allows the passenger to travel from the gate to the plane in a Volvo XC90. As it’s described, this limo service is “the perfect solution for those who value comfort and personalised service.”

As far as the details go:

• Tickets must be issued by LOT, and passengers must have access to the LOT lounge
• This service can be purchased at the reception desk of the lounge
• This service is exclusively available for flights that depart from a remote stand, where boarding would ordinarily happen via bus
• The cost of this service is 300 PLN ($78), and the price is the same for anywhere from one to four people

This limo service seems… very niche

It’s not uncommon to see airlines offer some sort of an airport VIP service that you can pay for, ranging from American Five Star Service to Air France Concierge. However, in this case, the passenger needs to know that this service exists, and the flight needs to specifically leave from a remote stand.

It sounds like this isn’t a comprehensive VIP service, where you get an escort through security, and other priority services. Instead, you’re taken to the same departure gate as everyone else, but you’re then put in a private Volvo rather than into a bus.

A lot of people hate the bus ride that’s required when departing from remote stands, but I guess now the question is whether you hate it enough to spend $78 to avoid it. Sure, in theory this might have appeal for some very rich people and celebrities, but again, this isn’t something that’s arranged in advance, which would likely limit the demand in that category.

I can’t imagine many people use this, both due to lack of publicity about the service, plus the cost. So I wonder, is there some alternative use for these cars? Like, does the airline offer some elite members rides on a surprise and delight basis, or is the car literally on standby in case anyone wants to use this paid service?

Bottom line

LOT Polish Airlines lets those who have lounge access pay $78 to avoid taking a bus to a remote stand, by offering a private Volvo transfer. That’s a hefty price tag just to be driven to the plane, with no additional service, so it’s interesting to me that this is offered.

What do you make of LOT’s unique airport limo service offering?