site.btaSOF Connect Launches Tender for Terminal 3 Construction, Terminal 2 Upgrade at Sofia Airport

SOF Connect, the operator of Vasil Levski Sofia Airport, announced on Monday the launch of a tender procedure for the design and construction of a new Terminal 3, a forecourt area, a transport hub, and the modernization of the Airport’s Terminal 2. The company plans to invest BGN 450 million in the project, with an additional BGN 50 million earmarked for equipment.

On September 10, 2024, Transport Ministry and SOF Connect presented a conceptual design for the future Terminal 3 at Sofia Airport. 

SOF Connect CEO Jesus Caballero said that this is the largest public infrastructure development project expected to be implemented in Bulgaria over the next five years. “We are confident it will attract companies with proven expertise and experience in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects, so that by 2031 Bulgaria will have a world-class airport,” he added.

The scope of the tender includes the design and construction of Terminal 3 with a total area of 60,000 sq. m. It will be connected to the fully operational Terminal 2 and will increase the airport’s passenger capacity from 7 million to 20 million per year. The new terminal will include arrival and departure zones, a centralized security checkpoint, office and service areas, a passenger pier, and commercial spaces.

Terminal 3 is planned to meet sustainability standards and will be BREEAM-certified. Work will be carried out in phases to maintain uninterrupted airport operations. Existing ground infrastructure such as parking areas, access roads, and passenger movement zones must remain functional during the entire construction period.

Terminal 2, with an area of 72,000 sq. m, will undergo modernization, including expanded commercial areas both in the public and post-security zones, conversion of passenger processing areas into offices and auxiliary spaces, as well as renovation of existing airport systems, including ICT and fire safety systems.

The project also includes upgrades to technical infrastructure to support future expansion and the introduction of Skytrax 5-star standards for regional airports. These improvements aim to enhance the passenger experience through digital, accessible, and sensory-oriented solutions.

A new 9,000 sq. m transport hub will be built, featuring 21 bus parking spaces and related infrastructure. Additional works will include access roads, airside and landside roadways, architectural, structural, and construction works, electrical and plumbing systems, ICT infrastructure, specialized airport systems, fire protection, building management systems, vertical transport.

SOF Connect invites interested parties to submit expressions of interest for project execution by October 15. After reviewing the submissions, the operator will officially launch the awarding procedure with a public notice.

Separately, the Sofia Municipal Council has approved the launch of 24-hour public transport service to Sofia Airport starting July 15.