The future Terminal 3 will turn Sofia Airport into the first 5-star regional airport in Europe (photos)

The operator of Sofia Airport - SOF Connect, on September 10, presented the conceptual design of the future Terminal 3. With it, Sofia Airport begins a major transformation that will turn it into the first 5-star regional airport in Europe, the press centre of the capital's airport said.

Caretaker Minister of Transport and Communications Krasimira Stoyanova, Thierry Do - Chairman and CEO of Meridiam, an investor in SOF Connect, and Jesus Caballero - CEO of SOF Connect, presented all aspects in which the future Terminal 3 will contribute to the economic development of Bulgaria - as a competitive advantage that the country will gain in the region in the next decade.

"The project for the construction of the new Terminal 3 is a step towards the modern Sofia Airport that we as a country and society expect and deserve", said Krasimira Stoyanova.

"The unveiling of the future airport terminal project marks another important milestone in our commitment to invest in and modernise this strategic transport infrastructure. Our ambition is to make Sofia Airport a world-class reference with the highest standards of sustainability. With Sofia Airport, we and our partners intend to lay the foundations for another long-term success story that will benefit everyone, joining our existing portfolio of landmark airports such as LaGuardia Central Terminal (New York, USA), Queen Alia International (Jordan) or Iwato and Nusi Be (Madagascar)," said Thierry Do.

"This key investment by SOF Connect in Sofia Airport Terminal 3 will set new standards in the industry and travel in Eastern Europe. It will enhance the passenger experience, increase operational efficiency and promote economic growth and sustainable development in Bulgaria," said Jesús Caballero.

Sofia Airport's transformation will play a crucial role in Bulgaria's economic development. More than BGN 1.2 billion will be invested during the concession period, with BGN 500 million earmarked for the construction of the modern Terminal 3.

Sofia Airport will become a key regional hub for air travel in Eastern Europe, connecting global destinations and establishing Bulgaria on the international aviation map. The new 65,000 sqm terminal will be connected to the current Terminal 2, and will combine modern architecture with contemporary materials to create an innovative and harmonious structure. The design is the exclusive work of the Bulgarian architectural firm IPA in collaboration with the internationally renowned and experienced aviation engineering firms Egis and 1PAX.

The new terminal will offer a complete passenger experience, ensuring exceptional service at every stage - from journey planning and baggage check-in to security screening and boarding. Passengers will be able to access all gates within five minutes of the central shopping area, ensuring a seamless movement through the airport.

The terminal will cater to a variety of passenger profiles including business, leisure and visiting family and friends (VFR) travellers. It will also offer dedicated services such as children's play areas, play areas and pet areas. The design of the terminal is optimised for both passenger convenience and airline efficiency. It includes advanced passenger sleeves for traditional airlines and efficient processes for low-cost carriers, ensuring a smooth experience for all.

Terminal 3 is designed to provide the highest level of comfort and convenience: high ceilings and open spaces will create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Modern architectural elements will combine aesthetic and functional benefits.

Level -1 is dedicated to technical operations; Level 0 will have arrivals and baggage reclaim areas; Level 1: departures areas, security screening, dining and retail areas with over 10,000 sqm; Level 2: connecting areas between flights and corridors for arrivals from outside Schengen and the EU.

With 34 gates shared between Terminal 2 and Terminal 3, Sofia Airport will be able to efficiently manage the growing number of passengers. The terminal will offer unique services such as facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, family-oriented areas and spaces for passengers with pets. It will also enhance services for business travellers, leisure travellers and VFR passengers.

Sofia Airport's transformation includes advanced technology and digital systems to improve operational efficiency. The security checkpoints will be able to process up to 3,250 passengers per hour, providing a fast and efficient service. In addition, the new baggage handling system will have the capacity to handle 2,400 bags per hour, supported by six baggage claim lanes in the new arrivals area, further enhancing passenger convenience.

Images by Sofia airport

Sofia Airport will maintain some of the most competitive airport charges in the region, reducing dwell times and operating costs for airlines. By attracting more airlines and opening new routes, Sofia Airport will become a leading player in regional travel.

Key milestones in the Terminal 3 schedule:

• Conceptual design of Terminal 3 - July 2024.
• Terminal 3 construction permit - April 2026.
• Commissioning of Terminal 3 - April 2031.