Concept design for Sofia Airport’s ‘five-star’ Terminal 3 unveiled
The concept design for Sofia Airport’s Terminal 3, which is intended to go into operation in April 2031, was unveiled at a news conference on September 10.
“With Terminal 3 Sofia Airport is embarking on an ambitious transformation that will see it become Europe’s first five-star regional airport,” the airport said in a media statement.
According to Sofia Airport “the concept design of Terminal 3 takes inspiration from Bulgaria’s breathtaking natural landscapes, particularly its mountains, colors, and silhouettes.
“Spanning 65 000 square metres, the new terminal will seamlessly connect with the existing Terminal 2, merging modern architecture with contemporary materials to create a cohesive and innovative structure.”
The airport said that passengers will have access to all gates within five minutes from the central commercial plaza, ensuring seamless movement throughout the airport.
The terminal will cater to diverse passenger profiles, including business, leisure, and VFR (Visiting Friends and Relatives) travellers. It will also offer tailored services such as playgrounds, game areas, and pet relief zones.
The terminal is to have four levels: -1 for technical operations, 0 for arrivals and baggage reclaim, 1 for departures security checkpoints, F&B and commercial areas of more than 10 000 sq m, and 2, for connecting flights and non-Schengen, non-EU arrival corridors.
“With 34 gates shared between Terminals 2 and 3, Sofia Airport will efficiently manage its growing passenger numbers,” the airport said.
The terminal will provide unique services, such as PRM (Passengers with Reduced Mobility) amenities, family-oriented facilities, and spaces for travelers with pets. Also improving the services for businesses, leisure and VFR passengers.
Advanced systems like AMS, ERP, and e-gates will streamline airport processes from 52 check-in counters, self-service kiosks to computed tomography security checks and e-gates for boarding and passport controls.
The security checkpoints will be able to process up to 3250 passengers per hour, “ensuring swift and efficient handling,” the airport said.
Additionally, a new baggage handling system will have the capacity to process 2400 bags per hour, complemented by six baggage claim belts in the new arrivals area to further enhance passenger convenience.
The presentation was given by caretaker Transport Minister Krassimira Stoyanova, SOF Connect investor Meridiam CEO Thierry Deau and SOF Connect CEO Jesus Caballero.
“The project for the construction of the new Terminal 3 is a step towards the modern Sofia Airport, which we as a country and society expect and deserve,” Stoyanova said.
“Our ambition is to transform Sofia Airport into a world-class reference with the highest standards of sustainability and resilience,” Deau said.
(Illustrations: Sofia Airport)
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