Bulgaria Air

Bulgaria Air stands as the proud national carrier of Bulgaria, serving as a vital bridge that connects the Balkans with major cities across Europe and the Middle East. Established to uphold the country's rich aviation traditions, the airline combines modern operational efficiency with the warm hospitality characteristic of the region. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, this full-service airline offers a reliable and comfortable journey, ensuring passengers experience a high standard of care from departure to arrival.

Flying with Bulgaria Air offers several distinct advantages for travelers looking to explore Eastern Europe and beyond. As a full-service carrier, the airline focuses on providing a seamless travel experience with competitive fares and quality onboard services.

• Modern Fleet: The airline operates a diverse fleet primarily consisting of Airbus A319, A320, and Embraer E190 aircraft. Recently, they have begun modernizing their operations with the addition of efficient Airbus A220 jets, ensuring a quieter and more environmentally friendly flight.
• Strategic Connectivity: With its primary base in Sofia, the airline offers convenient flight schedules to key European capitals such as London, Paris, and Berlin. It also maintains frequent domestic connections to the coastal city of Varna.
• Onboard Experience: Passengers can choose between Business and Economy class. The airline is known for offering complimentary catering on many routes, including sandwiches, chocolate treats, and a selection of beverages, reflecting traditional Bulgarian hospitality.
• Safety and Reliability: Operating under strict European Union safety regulations (EASA), Bulgaria Air maintains a strong safety record. It is also a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), adhering to global standards for operation and service.

Contacting Bulgaria Air from the United Arab Emirates is primarily managed through their digital channels and international customer service center in Sofia. While there is currently no dedicated local branch office in Dubai or Abu Dhabi for walk-in inquiries, travelers can easily manage bookings and request support via the official website, mobile app, or by phone.

For the most direct service, including flight changes and ticket information, passengers are advised to use the official online portal.

• Official Website: www.air.bg
• Customer Service (International): +359 2 402 04 00 (Daily, 08:00 – 22:00 Sofia time)
• Ticket Booking: +359 2 402 04 00
• Email: callfb@air.bg
• Mobile App: "Bulgaria Air" (Available on App Store and Google Play)

Stay updated with the latest news and offers through their official social media channels:

• Facebook: Bulgaria Air
• Twitter/X: @BulgariaAir
• Instagram: @bulgariaair

Local Office Information:

• At this time, Bulgaria Air does not operate a direct physical customer service office in the United Arab Emirates. All inquiries regarding flights from the region or connections via partner airlines should be directed to the international headquarters listed above.

Emergency & Support:

• Hours of Operation: The Call Center operates daily from 08:00 to 22:00 (EET/EEST).
• Note: When calling from the UAE, international calling rates will apply. For non-urgent matters, email is recommended for a detailed response.

Understanding the baggage policy is an essential step in planning your trip with Bulgaria Air. Whether you are heading to the ski slopes near Sofia or traveling for business to London, knowing your allowance ensures a smooth airport experience. The airline operates on the standard "Piece Concept," offering generous limits that vary by travel class and fare type.

Carry-on Baggage

Bulgaria Air allows passengers to bring cabin baggage on board to keep essentials close at hand. The allowance depends on the class of service booked:

• Economy Class: Passengers are entitled to one piece of hand luggage weighing up to 10 kg. The maximum dimensions must not exceed 55 x 40 x 23 cm. In addition, you may bring one small personal item, such as a laptop bag or handbag.
• Business Class: Travelers enjoying the premium service can bring two pieces of hand luggage with a combined weight of up to 15 kg, along with one personal item.

Checked Baggage

Checked baggage allowances are determined by the fare family you choose. It is important to check your ticket details, especially if you have purchased a promotional "Light" fare.

The sum of the three dimensions (length + height + width) for any checked bag should generally not exceed 158 cm. If your journey involves connections with other airlines, be sure to verify the rules of the operating carrier.

Excess Baggage Fees

If you need to carry more than the free allowance, excess baggage fees will apply. Charges can be incurred for:

• Overweight Bags: Pieces exceeding 23 kg (up to a maximum of 32 kg) in Economy Class.
• Extra Pieces: Additional bags beyond the allowance stated on your ticket.

Travelers are advised to pay for extra baggage online in advance, as fees at the airport service desks are typically higher. Routes to destinations like Tel Aviv or Paris may have specific fee structures, so checking the official website before departure is recommended.

Special Items and Sports Equipment

Bulgaria Air facilitates the transport of special items, which is particularly convenient for tourists visiting Bulgaria's mountain resorts or coastal cities.

• Sports Equipment: Golf clubs, ski equipment, and bicycles can be transported. In some cases, depending on the season and route, ski and snowboard equipment may be carried free of charge, but this must be confirmed prior to the flight. Otherwise, standard sports equipment fees apply.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried in the cabin as hand luggage if they fit within the dimensions. Larger instruments require purchasing an extra seat or must be checked in as special cargo.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure safety, certain items are restricted. In your carry-on, liquids must be in containers of 100 ml or less, placed in a transparent, re-sealable plastic bag. Lithium batteries and power banks must always be packed in your cabin luggage and are strictly prohibited in checked bags. Dangerous goods, explosives, and flammable substances are forbidden on all flights.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To avoid stress at the airport, weigh your bags at home to ensure they are within the 23 kg or 32 kg limits. Label your luggage clearly with your name and contact details inside and out. If you are traveling with fragile items, wrap them securely or consider keeping them in your hand luggage if size permits.

Pet Travel Policy

Bulgaria Air welcomes four-legged companions on board, understanding that pets are part of the family and deserve a comfortable journey. The airline permits cats and dogs to travel either in the passenger cabin or in the cargo hold, depending on their size and weight. Passengers are advised to book this service well in advance, as there is a strict limit on the number of animals allowed per flight.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

Small pets can join you in the cabin, provided they stay in their carrier throughout the flight. This option is designed for lighter animals that can travel safely under the seat in front of you.

• Carrier Dimensions: The maximum allowed size is typically 48 x 35 x 22 cm.
• Maximum Weight: The combined weight of the pet and the container must not exceed 8 kg.
• Allowed Pet Types: Only cats and dogs are permitted in the cabin.
• Pet Condition: The animal must be able to stand up and turn around comfortably within the container.
• Limit: usually restricted to one carrier per passenger.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Pets that exceed the cabin weight limits must travel in the temperature-controlled cargo hold. This area is pressurized to ensure animal safety during the flight.

• Container Requirements: Must be a rigid, IATA-compliant hard plastic or fiberglass crate with proper ventilation.
• Weight and Size: There is no fixed weight limit, but the crate must be spacious enough for the animal's size.
• Security: The container must be escape-proof and contain food and water dishes accessible from the outside.
• Documentation: The transport crate must be marked with the passenger's details and "Live Animals" stickers.

As Cargo

For very large animals, unaccompanied pets, or flights to countries with strict entry regulations, travel as manifest cargo is required.

• When Required: Necessary for destinations like London due to local laws, or for animals that are too large for standard checked baggage.
• Special Requirements: Requires handling by a freight forwarder or specialized pet shipping agent.
• Booking: This must be arranged separately from your passenger ticket through the airline's cargo department.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth check-in process at Sofia Airport or international stations, have the following documents ready:

• Pet Passport: An official EU pet passport or equivalent document.
• Microchip: The animal must be identified with an electronic microchip.
• Vaccinations: Valid rabies vaccination record is mandatory.
• Health Certificate: A veterinary certificate of good health issued shortly before the flight (usually within 24-48 hours).
• Local Regulations: Additional specific forms required by the destination country, for example, on flights to Tel Aviv.

Service Costs

Fees for pet transport are charged per direction and depend on the route and method of travel.

• In-Cabin Fee: Approximately €50 - €70 per direction.
• Cargo Hold Fee: Approximately €80 - €120 depending on the animal's weight and container size.
• Note: Prices are subject to change and may be higher for longer international routes.

Preparation Tips

• Acclimatization: Let your pet get used to the travel carrier at least a week before the flight.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 hours before departure to avoid air sickness; keep them hydrated.
• Comfort: Place an absorbent pad or a familiar blanket inside the crate to reduce stress.
• Exercise: Take your dog for a long walk before heading to the airport.

Restrictions

• Prohibited Breeds: Aggressive dog breeds are generally not accepted for transport.
• Brachycephalic Breeds: Snub-nosed animals (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) may be restricted in the cargo hold due to respiratory risks.
• Age Limit: Puppies and kittens must usually be at least 3 months old (sometimes older depending on rabies rules).
• Exceptions: Certified service animals may travel in the cabin free of charge, subject to specific conditions.

Important Note

Please contact Bulgaria Air directly before purchasing your ticket to confirm availability and current regulations, as rules may vary based on the aircraft type and final destination.

Fly More is the official loyalty program of Bulgaria Air, designed to reward frequent flyers with exclusive privileges and travel benefits. The program allows passengers to accumulate points on every flight, which can later be exchanged for a variety of services, making each journey more rewarding and comfortable.

Membership Tiers

• Basic Level: The entry-level tier where members begin earning promotional points immediately after registration.
• Silver Standard: Offers priority check-in at Business Class counters and additional baggage allowance advantages.
• Gold Standard: Provides top-tier perks including access to Business Lounges, priority boarding, and extra baggage capacity.

Earning Points

• Flights: Earn points for every segment flown with Bulgaria Air, calculated based on the fare type and destination.
• Credit Cards: Collect points on daily spending by using co-branded Visa credit cards issued by partner banks.
• Partner Services: Accumulate additional points through partnered services such as hotel bookings and car rentals.
• Validity: Points remain valid for a set period, encouraging active participation in the program.

Redeeming Points

• Award Flights: Use points to purchase "bonus tickets" to destinations like Berlin or Rome.
• Class Upgrades: Exchange points to upgrade your seat from Economy to Business Class for enhanced comfort.
• Extra Baggage: Pay for excess luggage using your accumulated points instead of cash.
• Ticket Taxes: Points cover the airfare cost only; airport taxes, surcharges, and service fees are applicable and must be paid separately by the passenger.

Airline Partnerships

• Strategic Partners: While not a member of a global alliance like Star Alliance, Bulgaria Air collaborates with major international carriers.
• Codeshare Agreements: Partners include airlines such as Qatar Airways, Iberia, and ITA Airways, facilitating seamless global connections.

How to Join

• Online Registration: Sign up for free via the "Fly More" section on the official Bulgaria Air website.
• Paper Application: Fill out a form available onboard or at authorized airline offices to receive a temporary card.

Flying with Bulgaria Air is designed to be a comfortable and welcoming experience, reflecting the airline's commitment to traditional hospitality combined with modern aviation standards. Whether you are traveling on a short hop within the Balkans or a longer journey to London or the Middle East, the carrier ensures a high level of service across all its cabins. The airline primarily operates a two-class configuration, focusing on Economy and Business Class to cater to different travel needs and budgets.

Economy Class

Economy Class on Bulgaria Air offers excellent value without compromising on essential comforts. It is designed for practicality and ease, making it a popular choice for tourists and families.

• Seating: Passengers enjoy ergonomic leather seats with adequate legroom for European medium-haul flights. On the newer Airbus A220 aircraft, the cabin features a 2-3 configuration, offering wider seats and larger windows for a more airy feel. On the Embraer E190, the 2-2 layout ensures that no passenger is stuck in a middle seat.
• Service: Unlike many European low-cost carriers, Bulgaria Air maintains a full-service philosophy. Economy passengers typically receive complimentary onboard catering, which often includes a fresh sandwich, a chocolate treat, and a choice of soft drinks, coffee, tea, or water.

Business Class

For those seeking extra privacy and luxury, Business Class provides a premium experience from the moment you arrive at the airport until you reach your destination.

• Priority & Comfort: The experience begins with priority check-in and boarding, as well as access to business lounges at Sofia Airport and partner hubs. Onboard, passengers are seated in the front rows. On Airbus aircraft, the middle seat is often kept vacant to guarantee extra personal space and privacy.
• Dining: The culinary experience is significantly upgraded. Travelers are served a warm 4-course meal accompanied by a selection of specialty wines and alcoholic beverages. The attentive cabin crew ensures a personalized service throughout the flight.

In-Flight Entertainment and Amenities

While Bulgaria Air does not typically offer seat-back personal screens on its short and medium-haul fleet, the airline focuses on a relaxed atmosphere.

• Reading Material: Passengers can enjoy the complimentary "Bulgaria On Air" in-flight magazine, which features engaging articles on travel, lifestyle, and business, providing inspiration for your next trip to destinations like Paris or Rome.
• Connectivity: On select newer aircraft like the Airbus A220, USB charging ports are available, allowing you to keep your devices powered up during the journey. Passengers are encouraged to bring their own entertainment on tablets or smartphones.

Special Services

Bulgaria Air is dedicated to making air travel accessible and convenient for all passengers, offering specialized assistance where needed.

• Families and Children: Unaccompanied Minors (UM) service is available for children aged 5 to 12 traveling alone, ensuring they are supervised from check-in to handover at the destination. Families traveling with infants receive priority boarding to settle in comfortably.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: The airline provides full assistance for passengers requiring wheelchairs or special help. Requests for such services should be made at least 48 hours in advance to ensure a seamless experience at the airport and onboard.
• Medical Cases: For passengers with specific medical conditions or expectant mothers (up to the 34th week of pregnancy), the airline has established protocols to ensure safety. A medical certificate may be required depending on the specific circumstances.

Bulgaria Air operates a focused and strategic network of scheduled flights centered around its primary hub in Sofia. The national carrier connects the Bulgarian capital with major European business centers and popular travel destinations, while also maintaining a vital domestic link to the Black Sea coast.

Booking a flight with Bulgaria Air is a straightforward process, but a few strategic tips can help you secure the best fares and ensure a smooth journey. Generally, the best time to book your tickets is between 3 to 6 weeks in advance. This window often balances availability with competitive pricing, especially for travel during peak seasons like summer or around major holidays.

If you are planning to travel on high-frequency routes, such as the domestic connection between Sofia and Varna, or international flights from major hubs like Athens and Amsterdam, it is advisable to monitor prices early. Subscribing to the airline's newsletter or setting up price alerts can help you catch promotional offers for popular destinations like Paris and London as soon as they become available.

To save time at the airport, take advantage of the Online Check-in service. This feature typically opens 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. It allows you to choose your preferred seat—whether you want a window view or an aisle seat for easier access—and print your boarding pass or save it to your mobile device. For those flying from airports like Brussels or Prague, having your digital boarding pass ready can significantly streamline your experience.

Using the official mobile app is highly recommended for managing your itinerary on the go. It provides real-time updates on flight status, gate changes, and baggage information. Additionally, consider purchasing travel insurance during the booking process. This offers peace of mind by covering unexpected events, flight cancellations, or lost luggage, ensuring that your trip remains stress-free.

Bulgaria Air was founded in November 2002, established by the state to serve as the national flag carrier following the cessation of operations by its predecessor, Balkan Bulgarian Airlines. The airline operated its inaugural flight in December of that year, tasked with the critical mission of ensuring uninterrupted air connectivity for the country. From the outset, the company focused on maintaining vital links between Sofia and key European capitals, upholding the nation's long-standing aviation traditions while adopting modern standards of safety and service.

A significant turning point in the airline's development occurred in 2006 when it underwent privatization. This transition marked the beginning of a new era characterized by strategic consolidation within the local aviation market. Bulgaria Air subsequently integrated with private carriers Hemus Air and Viaggio Air. This merger not only unified the domestic sector but also significantly expanded the airline's operational capacity and route network, strengthening connections to major international business hubs like London and Paris.

The evolution of the fleet has been central to the carrier's modernization strategy. In its early years, operations relied heavily on Boeing 737 Classic aircraft. To improve fuel efficiency and passenger comfort, the management initiated a comprehensive fleet renewal program. This strategic shift saw the phasing out of older jets in favor of the Airbus A320 family for medium-haul routes and Embraer E190 aircraft for shorter regional connections to cities such as Prague and Zurich.

In recent years, Bulgaria Air has continued to innovate to meet contemporary environmental and operational demands. A major milestone in this ongoing development was the introduction of the Airbus A220 into its fleet. These state-of-the-art aircraft offer significantly reduced emissions and a quieter cabin experience, enhancing operations on popular routes to Amsterdam and Berlin. Today, the airline stands as a modern full-service carrier, continuously adapting to the dynamic aviation landscape while preserving its role as a reliable bridge between Bulgaria and the world.