Sofia, Bulgaria – In a decisive move to enhance aviation security, Bulgaria’s airport operators have agreed on the need to implement anti-drone systems across all international airports in the country.
The decision was made following a high-level meeting between Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Grozdan Karadjov and representatives from Bulgaria’s major airports, including Sofia, Varna, Burgas, Plovdiv, and Gorna Oryahovitsa.
Officials from the Bulgarian Air Traffic Management Agency and the General Directorate of Civil Aviation were also in attendance.
The meeting, held in response to increasing concerns over unauthorized drone activity near airports, marked a significant step toward safeguarding Bulgarian airspace.
In the coming months, various technological solutions will be assessed to determine the most effective anti-drone systems.
Evaluating Technological Solutions
Authorities have outlined key criteria for selecting anti-drone technologies, including seamless integration with existing airport infrastructure and cost-effectiveness.
Karadjov stressed that each airport’s specific needs would be taken into account, and the chosen solutions would be incorporated into their respective investment plans.
Although anti-drone measures remain uncommon at European airports and there is currently no standardized model for implementation, Bulgarian airport operators have begun researching international best practices.
They have also initiated additional monitoring of airport perimeters, with a strong emphasis on protecting aircraft during critical phases such as takeoffs and landings.
Strengthening Regulatory Frameworks
In addition to deploying new technologies, the Bulgarian government plans to introduce legislative adjustments aimed at strengthening drone regulations.
These measures will include enhanced monitoring of drone activity, stricter enforcement of sanctions, and the development of standardized response protocols for unauthorized drone incursions.
Karadjov underscored the urgency of improving regulatory oversight, highlighting the need for swift action to prevent potential security threats posed by drones.
“Ensuring the safety of our airspace is a top priority, and we will take all necessary steps to regulate drone activity effectively,” he stated.
Action Plan and Next Steps
To expedite the implementation process, a working group has been established to develop a comprehensive action plan. The group is set to meet tomorrow, with a final report expected by Friday.
The adoption of anti-drone systems aligns with Bulgaria’s broader efforts to modernize its aviation infrastructure and enhance security measures in an era of evolving technological challenges.
As other European countries continue to grapple with drone-related incidents, Bulgaria’s proactive stance may set a precedent for future airport security initiatives across the region.
The Ministry of Transport is expected to provide further updates as evaluations progress and concrete measures are implemented.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members