The good news is on the cards for travelers! By March 31st, Bulgaria will join the Schengen area, eliminating passport controls at airports like Sofia and Burgas. This means smoother and faster journeys for over two-thirds of Sofia Airport passengers.
Both airports are ready for the transition, having undergone upgrades and checks to meet Schengen requirements. Jesus Caballero, CEO of the company managing Sofia Airport, assures seamless overnight integration. Flights will be redistributed between terminals to avoid confusion, and an information campaign with airlines will keep everyone informed.
However, Sofia’s passenger numbers still haven’t fully recovered from pre-pandemic levels. In the first half of 2023, they were marginally lower than 2019, while 2022 saw a notable year-on-year increase, still falling short of pre-pandemic figures. The airport operator remains optimistic, investing BGN 150 million over the next three years to modernize and redevelop the hub.
With Schengen access and ongoing developments, Bulgaria’s air travel scene is poised for a brighter future. Passengers can look forward to a quicker and more efficient experience at Sofia and Burgas airports, potentially attracting more travelers and boosting tourism further.
