With Terminal 3, Sofia Airport is embarking on an ambitious transformation that will see it become Europe’s first 5-star regional airport. Sofia Airport aims to have Terminal 3 operational by April 2031.
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Sofia Airport’s transformation will play a pivotal role in Bulgaria’s economic development:
– Major Investment: More than BGN 1.2 billion will be invested over the concession period, with BGN 500 million allocated to the construction of the state-of-the-art Terminal 3.
– Boosting Bulgaria’s GDP: With a combined capacity of 20 million passengers annually between the new Terminal 3 and Terminal 2, increased air connectivity is expected to generate a 0.5% increase in Bulgaria’s GDP for every 10% rise in connectivity.
– Strategic Regional Hub: Sofia Airport is set to become a vital regional hub for air travel in Eastern Europe, connecting global destinations and positioning Bulgaria firmly on the international aviation map.
Nature-inspired design
The concept design of Terminal 3 takes inspiration from Bulgaria’s breathtaking natural landscapes, particularly its mountains, colors, and silhouettes. Spanning 65,000 sq. meters, the new terminal will seamlessly connect with the existing Terminal 2, merging modern architecture with contemporary materials to create a cohesive and innovative structure. The design is an exceptional work of the Bulgarian architecture company IPA in collaboration with international acknowledged and experienced in aviation industry engineering companies Egis and 1PAX.
5-Star SkyTrax certification
This transformative investment aims to secure Sofia Airport as the first regional airport in Europe to receive a prestigious 5-star SkyTrax certification. The new terminal will offer a holistic passenger journey, ensuring an exceptional experience at every stage, from planning and check-in to security and boarding.
– Convenience and Accessibility: Passengers will have access to all gates within five minutes from the central commercial plaza, ensuring seamless movement throughout the airport.
– Tailored for All Travelers: The terminal will cater to diverse passenger profiles, including business, leisure, and VFR (Visiting Friends and Relatives) travelers. It will also offer tailored services such as playgrounds, game areas, and pet relief zones.
– Optimized Flows: The terminal’s design is optimized for both passenger comfort and airline operations. It features advanced passenger boarding bridges for legacy carriers and efficient processes for low-cost carriers, ensuring a smooth experience for all.
Architecture and design features
Terminal 3 is designed to offer the highest level of comfort and convenience:
Spacious design: High ceilings and open environments will create a calm, welcoming atmosphere. Modern architectural elements will be blended with aesthetic and functional benefits.
Four levels of functionality:
Level -1: Dedicated to technical operations
Level 0: Arrivals and baggage reclaim areas.
Level 1: Departures, security checkpoints, F&B and commercial areas of more than 10 000 sq. meters.
Level 2: Dedicated to connection flights and Non Schengen / No UE arrival corridors.
Expanded gate capacity: With 34 gates shared between Terminals 2 and 3, Sofia Airport will efficiently manage its growing passenger numbers.
Specialized services: The terminal will provide unique services, such as PRM (Passengers with Reduced Mobility) amenities, family-oriented facilities, and spaces for travelers with pets. Also improving the services for businesses, leisure and VFR passengers.