Sofia Airport Advances Toward Building New Passenger Terminal

Vasil Levski Sofia Airport (SOF) has started the construction of infrastructure needed in advance of building its new passenger terminal.

The cost of building what will be called Terminal 3 is expected to be around $285 million, while the preparatory projects now being launched will cost around $7.8 million. Terminal 3 will span 65,000 m² (700,000 ft.²) with a planned 2031 opening.

The preliminary projects being started include constructing new underground infrastructure for the existing Terminal 2, the air traffic control tower and the new Terminal 3. Underground networks will include electricity supply, heating, drinking water supply, wastewater and stormwater drainage, telecommunications and a fire suppression system, according to the airport.

“This approach allows us to prepare the necessary utility networks and systems in advance, ensuring that Terminal 3 is built on a reliable infrastructure foundation,” said Jesús Caballero, CEO of SOF Connect, which operates the airport.

SOF said it will additionally reconstruct the area in front of Terminal 2 “to improve the surrounding urban environment, accessibility and traffic management” in preparation for building Terminal 3. 

The airport will build an access ramp for wheelchair users and relocate the taxi stand to position it directly in front of Terminal 2. “The new layout will ensure a continuous flow of taxis throughout the construction of Terminal 3, while also improving services for arriving and departing passengers,” SOF said.

The airport is also building a new bus transportation center. The facility will have a dedicated bus zone with 14 parking bays.

“We are upgrading the area around Terminal 2 to improve traffic management and passenger services during the upcoming construction works,” Caballero said.