Why Bulgaria’s air travel growth matters for tourists

Sofia: Bulgaria is now the EU’s second-biggest magnet for leisure and business air travel, a clear sign that the world wants to connect with the Balkan nation and the nation’s skies are ready to welcome them. Fresh numbers from Eurostat reveal a surge: the nation generated 29 percent of all air passenger kilometers flown in the EU for the year, underlining just how central Bulgaria has become in the continent’s aviation map.

In 2023, Bulgaria’s air travel market saw notable growth, securing the second position in terms of air passenger kilometers in the EU. With a 29 percent share, Bulgaria significantly contributed to the region’s overall air transport figures. This comes just behind Croatia, which led the EU with a share of 43.5 percent. Cyprus ranked third with 27.4 percent of total air passenger kilometers. The rising demand for air travel in Bulgaria points to the country’s increasing popularity as a tourist destination and business hub.

Air travel continues to hold an important place in the EU’s transport landscape. In 2023, the aviation sector made up 14.7 percent of the total passenger kilometers in the EU, marking a rise from the previous year. This growth contrasts with a slight decline in the share of car travel, which, while still the dominant mode of transport, accounted for 70.6 percent of the total passenger kilometers in the EU. Rail, bus, and maritime transport follow, with varying shares in the overall travel distribution.

For travelers visiting Bulgaria, this strong air travel ranking highlights the ease of access to the country. With more international flights and increased connectivity, Bulgaria is becoming an even more attractive destination for both leisure and business travelers. The well-established air routes bolster Bulgaria’s tourism industry, facilitating travel for visitors looking to explore its rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and historic cities.

The growing prominence of air travel in Bulgaria has several implications for the tourism sector. More efficient and frequent flights to and from major Bulgarian airports, such as Sofia, Varna, and Burgas, are expected to attract greater numbers of international tourists. For those planning trips to Bulgaria, this growth means more opportunities to explore the country’s diverse attractions, from the Black Sea coast to the picturesque villages and historic sites in the mountains.

The shift towards more sustainable travel options is evident across the EU. While air travel remains significant, countries like Lithuania, the Netherlands, and Finland rely heavily on road transport, with percentages ranging from 76 percent to over 85 percent of total passenger kilometers. In contrast, countries like Malta and Ireland have seen higher use of buses and coaches, while rail transport plays a notable role in the Netherlands and Austria. These regional differences in transport preferences provide valuable insights for the tourism sector in understanding how travelers move across Europe and where improvements in travel infrastructure might be needed.

Bulgaria’s strong position as the second-leading country in the EU for air travel further solidifies its status as a prime travel destination in Europe. With growing air connectivity, the country is well-equipped to cater to an increasing number of international travelers. The rise in air passenger kilometers reflects Bulgaria’s growing significance in European tourism and its appeal as a destination for both business and leisure travel.

Access to Bulgaria’s most appealing destinations—vibrant cities, sun-kissed coast, and deep cultural roots, is set to improve even further. Recent air travel statistics demonstrate that flying is vital for visitors and confirm Bulgaria’s rising profile within European tourism. As flight services expand, the country anticipates another phase of tourism growth that will create additional advantages for visitors and provide a significant boost to the regional economy.