Bulgaria Air is bringing back its seasonal Sofia to Burgas route this summer, cutting travel time between the capital and the Black Sea coast to roughly 50 minutes. The first flights depart on 5 June 2026, operating up to four times per week before shifting to a daily schedule from 30 June. The service runs through September.
Evening Departures for Weekend Trips
The airline is scheduling evening departures from Sofia, which means finishing work in the capital and reaching Burgas in time for a late dinner becomes feasible. The timing suits short weekend breaks, business meetings, or longer summer holidays without the four-hour road journey or the slower rail option, both of which operate year-round.
Bulgaria Air will operate the route using Airbus A220 aircraft. The airline highlights the A220's quieter cabin, improved air conditioning, wider seating, larger windows, and more legroom compared to older aircraft. Every seat includes a USB charging port.
The airline describes the A220 as more fuel-efficient than traditional aircraft on this route. These environmental efficiency claims come from Bulgaria Air, and independent emissions data comparing short-haul flights to road or rail travel on the Sofia to Burgas corridor is not publicly available. Short-haul flights typically carry a higher carbon footprint per passenger kilometre than ground transport, though the airline's marketing suggests otherwise.
What's Included
Economy passengers receive:
- 10kg hand luggage plus one personal item
- Free check-in
- Onboard catering (drinks, coffee, and a chocolate bar) at no extra cost
- Access to Bulgaria Air's Fly More loyalty programme
Bulgaria Air has not disclosed ticket pricing. Travellers should check the airline's website at www.air.bg for current fares and compare carefully with road and rail alternatives. Road travel takes approximately four hours by car or bus and costs significantly less, while rail services take longer but also offer cheaper fares.
Why This Matters for British Expats
British expats in Bulgaria who own or rent property on the Black Sea coast now have a faster way to reach Burgas from Sofia during the summer months. The evening flight schedule suits those working in Sofia who want to reach the coast without taking a full day off. For British tourists visiting Bulgaria, the route offers a quicker connection to Sunny Beach, Sozopol, and other coastal resorts.
The seasonal nature of the service means it is not an option outside June to September. Road travel remains the only year-round option, taking approximately four hours by car or bus depending on traffic. Rail services also operate year-round but take longer than road.
Practical Details
Flight schedules, reservations, and additional service details are available on Bulgaria Air's website at www.air.bg. No contingency information has been provided regarding flight disruptions, so travellers should plan accordingly and be aware that alternative transport options may be required if flights are cancelled or delayed. Road and rail alternatives remain available for those who need backup plans or prefer year-round reliability over seasonal convenience.