Founded: 2002
Headquarters: Sofia, Bulgaria
Main hub: Sofia Airport (SOF)
Bulgaria Air is the national flag carrier of Bulgaria. From its base in Sofia, it links the Bulgarian capital with cities across Europe and the Middle East, including Tel Aviv. For Israeli travellers it is a convenient option for city breaks in Sofia, ski holidays in Bansko and summer trips to the Black Sea coast. Here is a profile of the airline.
A brief history of Bulgaria Air
Bulgaria Air was established in 2002 as the country’s new flag carrier, following the closure of the former national airline, Balkan Bulgarian Airlines. It has since built a network of scheduled and charter routes connecting Bulgaria with Europe and the Middle East.
The fleet
Bulgaria Air operates a compact fleet of Airbus A320-family and Embraer regional jets, suited to the short and medium-haul routes that make up its network. The airline has been renewing its fleet with newer aircraft.
Where Bulgaria Air flies
The airline serves major European cities such as London, Paris, Madrid, Frankfurt and Amsterdam, as well as destinations in the Middle East, and domestic flights to Varna and Burgas on the Black Sea coast. Schedules change with the seasons, so check the current timetable when booking.
Service on board
Service is friendly and straightforward. What your ticket includes – such as checked baggage and seat selection – depends on the fare type, so compare options before you pay.
Safety
Bulgaria Air operates to international safety standards, with trained crews and aircraft that meet European aviation regulations.
Bulgaria Air and Israel
Bulgaria Air flies between Sofia and Tel Aviv. Like many foreign carriers, it has paused and resumed its Israel flights at times depending on the security situation – see Bulgaria Air resumes flights to Israel, and check the latest schedule before booking.
Tips for flying Bulgaria Air
- Combine city and mountains: Sofia is the gateway to the ski resorts of Bansko and Borovets.
- Compare airports: for summer beach holidays, flying direct to Varna or Burgas may be more convenient – see flights to Bulgaria: Sofia, Varna or Burgas.
- Check baggage rules: especially if you are carrying ski equipment.
Planning your trip? Read Bulgaria for travellers and our guide to things to do in Sofia.
