Starting today, Sofia Airport has introduced a new traffic management system at Terminal 2, aimed at improving vehicle flow and reducing congestion. Under the revised system, cars will have free access to the terminal for up to 10 minutes.
Beyond this duration, parking charges will apply. The system officially came into effect at 7:00 a.m. this morning with the activation of access barriers.
Radoslav Todorov, Head of the Parking Department at Sofia Airport, outlined the key features of the new arrangement. Drivers are required to draw a ticket upon entering the airport grounds.
This ticket is valid across all parking areas at the facility, streamlining the process for both short- and long-term parking. The three available parking lots—P5, P3, and P4—are equipped to accommodate varying needs, from quick stops to extended stays.
Introducing the “Kiss & Ride” Zone
A notable addition to the new system is the “Kiss & Ride” zone, designed for quick drop-offs and pickups. Drivers in this area can park for free for up to 10 minutes, provided they vacate the spot within the allotted time. To prevent misuse, the minimum interval between two free entries is set at 60 minutes.
Exceeding the free parking duration incurs charges:
- 10 leva for stays between 11 and 30 minutes,
- 15 leva for 31 to 59 minutes,
- 20 leva for each additional hour.
Special provisions have been made for vehicles transporting passengers with disabilities, allowing up to 30 minutes of free parking in the Kiss & Ride zone.
Accommodations for Tourist Buses
Tourist transfer buses, a common sight during the winter season, are also accounted for in the new system. Until the end of March, buses are allowed a free stay of up to 30 minutes in the Kiss & Ride zone or Parking P8.
Beyond this limit, charges will apply, with rates of 30 leva for stays between 31 and 59 minutes and 40 leva for every additional hour.
Public Transport and Long-Term Parking Options
Public transport vehicles remain exempt from the new restrictions and will continue to have unlimited free access to the terminal. However, parking in the Kiss & Ride zone or nearby streets is strictly prohibited to ensure smooth traffic flow.
For those requiring long-term parking, Sofia Airport offers three designated lots—P5, P3, and P4—catering to varying durations and needs. The introduction of a unified ticketing system simplifies the parking process across these areas.
Aiming for Efficiency and Safety
Airport officials expressed optimism about the benefits of the new system. “This change is part of our broader effort to enhance the passenger experience by reducing congestion and ensuring safe and efficient traffic management,” Todorov said.
The revamped system is expected to provide smoother access for travelers while addressing long-standing issues with overcrowding and unauthorized parking.
The introduction of clear time limits and pricing structures aims to encourage compliance and ensure equitable use of the airport’s parking facilities.
Passengers are advised to plan their arrivals and departures accordingly, taking into account the new regulations to avoid unnecessary charges. For more information on the parking options and fees, travelers can visit Sofia Airport’s official website.