Bulgaria will launch its biggest public infrastructure project tomorrow when bidding opens for Terminal 3 construction at Sofia Airport. The new terminal represents a 500 million leva investment that could make the airport the region's first five-star facility. Jesus Caballero leads Sof Connect, the company that operates Vasil Levski Airport. Officials expect to choose a contractor during summer 2026 and begin construction that fall. The terminal should open for passengers during April 2031.
Recent problems at the airport prompted officials to improve passenger services. Nearly 300 travelers from a London flight waited almost one hour in a connecting corridor last week. Airport managers created faster procedures to help passengers from countries outside the Schengen area move through the facility more quickly. The current Terminal 2 dates back to the 1990s and cannot properly separate different types of international travelers. Buses will transport passengers arriving from non-Schengen countries to the new terminal once construction finishes.
Airport officials want to establish direct flights to New York City. More than 50,000 passengers travel to that destination each year through connecting flights at other airports. Caballero said the airport has enough demand to support direct service. Airport managers are discussing the route with American business groups and the US Embassy in Sofia, but airlines must make the final decision about adding the flights.
Recent problems at the airport prompted officials to improve passenger services. Nearly 300 travelers from a London flight waited almost one hour in a connecting corridor last week. Airport managers created faster procedures to help passengers from countries outside the Schengen area move through the facility more quickly. The current Terminal 2 dates back to the 1990s and cannot properly separate different types of international travelers. Buses will transport passengers arriving from non-Schengen countries to the new terminal once construction finishes.
Airport officials want to establish direct flights to New York City. More than 50,000 passengers travel to that destination each year through connecting flights at other airports. Caballero said the airport has enough demand to support direct service. Airport managers are discussing the route with American business groups and the US Embassy in Sofia, but airlines must make the final decision about adding the flights.
