In a significant move to enhance passenger convenience and improve airport infrastructure, Sofia Airport has officially inaugurated a new outdoor parking facility.
The project, valued at over 7 million leva, adds more than 1,000 parking spaces to the airport, marking a crucial step in its ongoing modernization.
The facility was opened during a ceremony attended by key figures in Bulgarian infrastructure, including Jesus Caballero, CEO of SOF Connect, and Emil Angelov, CEO and Deputy Chairman of Glavbolgarstroy Holding (GBS), the contractor behind the project.
The newly constructed outdoor parking lots span an impressive 25,000 square meters, designed to cater to a variety of passenger needs.
These include spaces for individuals with limited mobility and charging stations for electric vehicles, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and inclusivity.
According to Caballero, the expansion of parking spaces is just one component of the broader vision to modernize Sofia Airport, positioning it as a hub that meets the needs of today’s travelers while supporting Bulgaria’s tourism and economic ambitions.
“We are committed to making Sofia Airport more efficient, accessible, and modern,” said Caballero during the opening ceremony.
“This parking project is a crucial investment in our vision to improve the passenger experience and enhance the efficiency of services at Bulgaria’s largest airport.”
Enhancing Passenger Convenience
The new parking facilities are designed with modern amenities and a focus on improving the flow of traffic around the airport. They are strategically divided into different sections to accommodate various types of travelers.
The P3 parking lot, which has been operational for a month, provides both short-term and long-term parking options, offering flexibility for those who need to leave their vehicles for a few hours or several days.
The newly opened P4 lot, on the other hand, offers economical parking for passengers who are expected to park for extended periods, making it a budget-friendly option.
For those who require a quick drop-off or pick-up, the P5 parking lot has been designed as a convenient short-term solution. This area is ideal for those arriving to meet or drop off passengers without the need for extended parking.
Meanwhile, P8 has been designated for buses meeting large groups of travelers, ensuring that the airport can handle the increasing volume of tourists arriving in Bulgaria.
These new parking areas are not only designed with convenience in mind but also with a clear focus on improving traffic flow around the airport.
The parking lots feature distinct visual elements and improved signage to guide drivers easily through the areas, which will help minimize congestion and improve overall traffic management.
This attention to detail is part of SOF Connect’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the airport’s operational efficiency.
Emil Angelov, the CEO of Glavbolgarstroy Holding, highlighted the quick turnaround of the project, noting that the 1,045 parking spaces were completed in just six months.
“This is a significant achievement, and we are proud to be a part of the airport’s transformation,” Angelov said.
“The timely completion of these parking spaces is just the beginning. We are excited to continue working on the next phase of the project, which will involve a complete overhaul of the multi-storey covered parking facility.”
Ongoing Renovations and Future Expansion Plans
The multi-storey parking structure, which is currently undergoing renovations, is a key part of the airport’s broader efforts to elevate its services.
The renovation is expected to further increase the parking capacity and improve the overall experience for passengers. Glavbolgarstroy Holding will oversee this project as well, with an estimated investment of 25 million leva.
“We’re looking forward to the completion of the multi-storey parking lot renovation, which will further expand the capacity of Sofia Airport and help us provide even more convenient parking options for travelers,” said Caballero.
“This is a critical component of our modernization strategy, and we are committed to ensuring the airport remains a world-class facility that meets the evolving needs of the aviation industry.”
The renovation of the multi-storey parking lot is expected to take several months, during which time passengers will still have access to the newly opened outdoor lots.
The ongoing work is part of SOF Connect’s larger 35-year plan to transform Sofia Airport into a state-of-the-art facility capable of handling increasing passenger numbers and offering an exceptional experience to travelers.
SOF Connect’s Vision for Sofia Airport
SOF Connect, which has been managing Sofia Airport since 2021, is part of the French infrastructure investment firm Meridiam.
The company’s vision is to modernize the airport and bring it in line with global standards. This initiative is in line with Bulgaria’s strategic goal to boost its tourism sector, attract more international travelers, and enhance its economic growth.
In addition to improving passenger experience, SOF Connect is focusing on making Sofia Airport more environmentally sustainable and technologically advanced.
Over the coming years, the airport will see a range of improvements, including the introduction of new technologies for passenger flow management, upgraded terminal facilities, and enhancements to the overall airport infrastructure.
The introduction of electric vehicle charging stations at the new parking facilities is just one example of how Sofia Airport is incorporating sustainable solutions into its expansion.
As the aviation industry increasingly focuses on reducing carbon footprints, Sofia Airport is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable airport development in the region.
Reservations and Accessibility
Passengers now have the option to reserve parking spots at the new facilities through the Sofia Airport website. This digital solution ensures that travelers can secure their parking in advance, saving time and reducing stress upon arrival.
With increasing air traffic expected in the coming years, the ability to reserve parking spaces is expected to become a key feature for many passengers.
In addition to the practical benefits of the new parking lots, the project reflects Sofia Airport’s broader ambition to become a more accessible and passenger-friendly destination.
The inclusion of spaces for individuals with limited mobility is an important step towards making the airport more inclusive, ensuring that all passengers have access to the same level of convenience and comfort.
Conclusion
The opening of the new outdoor parking facilities at Sofia Airport marks an important milestone in the airport’s ongoing modernization.
The project not only expands parking capacity but also improves the overall passenger experience by offering flexible, affordable, and modern parking solutions.
With the next phase of renovations already underway, including the overhaul of the multi-storey parking lot, Sofia Airport is poised to further enhance its services and become a leading transportation hub in the region.
As SOF Connect continues its 35-year management plan, it remains focused on improving the airport’s infrastructure to meet global standards and ensure Bulgaria remains an attractive destination for international travelers.
The new parking facilities are a testament to the company’s commitment to modernizing Sofia Airport and enhancing the overall travel experience for passengers.