SOF Connect and the global technology leader in the aviation industry SITA have successfully implemented a new cutting-edge airport operations management system at Vasil Levski Sofia Airport – a key technology platform that manages the main airport processes and infrastructure in real time. This was announced during the Fireside Chat: The AIrport That Knows You panel within the Digitalk+AI Conference 2026.
The system is among the most modern solutions in the aviation industry and represents a kind of “digital brain” of the airport, which unites operational data, flight information and communication between the various airport systems and partners. Through the integration of over 20 information and communication systems, the platform allows for significant improvements in operational efficiency, resource management and passenger experience.
“Digitalization is no longer the future, but a major driver of the aviation industry. The new operations management system allows us to manage the airport in a smarter, more efficient and sustainable way. This is a key step in the transformation of Vasil Levski Sofia Airport into a modern, next-generation technology hub,” said Jesus Caballero, CEO of SOF Connect.
Commenting on the implementation, Marina Zviagina, Head of the Territory, SITA, said:“A new kind of regional airport is taking shape. The region’s hubs aren’t waiting to copy the big international gateways, they’re moving straight to operations built on shared, real-time data, and Sofia is a clear example of that. When flight information, resources and partners all work from one live picture, an airport can absorb disruption faster, turn aircraft around quicker, and give passengers a smoother journey. That’s where travel is heading, and SOF Connect is helping define what a modern regional hub looks like.”
As part of the Digitalk+AI Conference 2026, Jesus Caballero and Jordi Valls, Head of SITA Labs – SITA’s global innovation unit, participated in the Fireside Chat: The AIrport That Knows You panel, dedicated to the future of AI, digital infrastructure and smart industries. The two presented how artificial intelligence, automation, data and 5G connectivity are changing airport management and creating new opportunities for more efficient, sustainable and passenger-centric operations.
During the conference, Jesus Caballero, Jordi Valls, Momchil Vassilev, CEO of Endeavor Bulgaria and Iliyana Zaharieva, Director of Corporate Communications at A1, also announced the launch of a new open innovation initiative. The project will support the long-term transformation of Vasil Levski Sofia Airport by attracting, testing, and deploying emerging technologies in aviation, mobility, and airport infrastructure. The partnership reflects a shared ambition to position the airport as a regional innovation hub, connecting it with leading technology companies, startups, and entrepreneurs from Bulgaria and Southeast Europe.
“The new initiative is the next step in the development of the airport as an innovation platform. Our ambition is to build an ecosystem in which technology companies, startups and global partners work together on real solutions for the future of aviation and connectivity,” said Caballero.
Digital transformation is a key part of SOF Connect’s long-term strategy for the development of Vasil Levski Sofia Airport as the first 5-star regional hub in Europe. The company has already implemented a number of strategic partnerships and technology projects related to AI, automation, connectivity and modernization of airport infrastructure, including the implementation of an innovative private 5G mobile network in partnership with A1 Bulgaria and Wings ICT Solutions.
Digitalk+AI Conference 2026 brought together global leaders, entrepreneurs, investors and innovators for the 15th consecutive year to discuss the future of technology, business and digital transformation. The theme of this year’s edition – “Harness the AI Powered Future” – focused on the role of artificial intelligence as a key factor in the transformation of companies, operating models and industries.
You can download photos from the event at the following link: https://tinyurl.com/mt5h2jkv