The modernized 5-star airport will be a catalyst for the economic development of the entire region
SOF Connect, the operator of Sofia Airport, announces its plans for accelerated investment in the capital’s airport by the end of 2025. More than BGN 50 million per year will be invested in the airport’s development over the next three years. This will achieve an increase of BGN 60 million, or 2/3 more than the amount set in the concession contract.
“We are investing in the future of Bulgaria. We are not only fulfilling, but we will exceed our investment program. BGN 150 million will be the contribution of SOF Connect to the Bulgarian economy by the end of 2025 to ensure the transformation of the capital’s airport. Thus, in total, for the entire term of the concession, the investments in the development of the Bulgarian airport will exceed BGN 1.2 billion. We are also actively working on improving the air connectivity of the city and the country – more destinations from Sofia Airport mean new businesses and more jobs, as well as promoting the country internationally”, said Jesús Caballero – CEO of Sofia Airport.
The investment programme is part of a wider strategic goal to have a five-star regional airport and a third passenger terminal by 2030. Improving the passenger experience, green energy usage, clean environment and sustainable development are among the main priorities of the Sofia Airport modernisation plan implemented by SOF Connect. The main investment projects here are:
- Construction of a 20-megawatt photovoltaic park to meet the energy needs of the airport complex. The first five megawatts will be implemented before 2025.
- Construction of the completely new Terminal 3, scheduled for commissioning in 2030.
- A complete reconstruction of Terminal 2 building, which will also take over flights from Terminal 1, and the construction of 3 new public car parks.
- Doubling of check-in counters and increase in security and border control lines.
- Improving the passenger experience through a new shopping area of almost 2000 m2, a completely new area with restaurants and bars.
- Implementation in 2023 of a new modern and efficient baggage management system.
- 3 new boarding bridges, also capable of handling wide-body aircraft for long-haul flights.
- Repair and improvement of the airfield field, including the runway.