A working meeting focused on improving Bulgaria’s transport accessibility and tourism connectivity was held at the Ministry of Tourism at the initiative of Minister of Tourism Ilin Dimitrov. The discussion was attended by Minister of Transport and Communications Georgi Peev, representatives of the Black Sea municipalities, Sofia Municipality and Plovdiv Municipality, as well as the management teams of Vasil Levski Sofia Airport, Varna Airport, Burgas Airport and Plovdiv Airport.
Minister Peev presented the main priorities for improving the country’s transport accessibility. “Transport and tourism are mutually dependent sectors. The Government will work in close partnership with municipalities and airport operators to make Bulgaria a more attractive and easily accessible tourist destination,” he said. The Minister emphasised that the development of air, rail and road infrastructure is a key factor in the sustainable growth of tourism.
During the meeting, Minister Peev drew attention to the challenges facing Vasil Levski Sofia Airport, which is already experiencing capacity constraints concerning aircraft stands and apron handling. He announced that new direct air services to long-haul destinations are expected to be launched by the end of the summer. These will expand Bulgaria’s international connectivity and stimulate the development of domestic air services.
With regard to the Black Sea airports, the Minister noted that although Burgas Airport is capable of accommodating larger aircraft than Varna Airport, government policy is aimed at cooperation and complementarity between the regions rather than competition between them.
Minister Peev identified the modernisation of rail transport as one of the most important factors in the development of the transport system. According to him, more than 50% of the rolling stock is obsolete and does not meet modern standards of comfort. The complete replacement of the existing trains with modern, air-conditioned multiple-unit trains therefore remains one of the Ministry’s leading priorities.
As an innovative way of promoting domestic tourism, the Minister proposed naming the new Alstom and Škoda multiple-unit trains after Bulgarian mountain peaks, natural landmarks and maritime features. QR codes displayed on board the trains would provide passengers with information about tourist attractions and opportunities to visit places in the regions through which the trains travel.
Minister Peev emphasised that the completion of the Hemus Motorway and improvements to rail services would facilitate access to the northern Black Sea coast and encourage domestic tourism, which has considerable potential for further development.
The Ministry of Transport and Communications will continue to provide expert support to municipalities by organising meetings with airlines and airport operators and by assisting with the implementation of initiatives aimed at improving Bulgaria’s transport connectivity and tourism accessibility.
