A new EUR 15 million checked-baggage handling system was put into operation at Terminal 2 by SOF Connect, the operator of Vasil Levski Sofia Airport, on Wednesday. It increases baggage-handling capacity eightfold, from 400 to 3,200 bags per hour. The system is part of the airport’s modernization programme and is intended to help it serve up to 20 million passengers a year.
SOF Connect CEO Jesus Caballero, Slatina Borough Mayor Georgi Iliev, Civil Aviation Administration Director General Anelia Marinova and French Ambassador to Bulgaria Marie Dumoulin attended the opening, together with representatives of public institutions, businesses and the aviation sector.
Caballero said the system marked a crucial step in the airport’s modernization, increasing capacity while improving security, reliability and passenger service. The new check-in facilities, which include 52 desks and self-service bag-drop points, would make airline operations more efficient and baggage check-in more convenient for passengers, airlines and ground handling operators, he added.
Work on the project began in 2022 and was completed while the airport remained fully operational, including during a summer of record traffic. The project also prepares the airport for the planned Terminal 3, Caballero said.
Caballero said modernization work at the airport was continuing. An additional check-in area, a new security checkpoint, a fast-track lane and new business and VIP lounges are expected to open.
The system uses technology supplied by French company Alstef Group and US-based Leidos. Its security equipment includes three Leidos explosive detection systems configured with triple redundancy and dual-view X-ray systems for secondary screening. Alstef Group was the main contractor for delivery, installation and integration and will maintain the system.
Its infrastructure also includes an operational IT network, cybersecurity solutions, and performance and maintenance monitoring. The system is expected to improve the efficiency and reliability of baggage handling for airlines, ground handling operators and passengers.
