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By the end of 2026, Gorna Oryahovitsa Airport could welcome its first aircraft

Monday, Jun 15, 2026

AFTER DECADES OF STAGNATION, GORNA ORYAHOVITSA AIRPORT MAY WELCOME ITS FIRST PASSENGER PLANE AT THE END OF 2026

The activities to restore the airport and return it to active operation are progressing at a good pace. Mayor Nikolay Rashkov outlined the concrete steps being taken before flights can actually resume.
By the end of September, the delivery of the security X-ray equipment is expected. Without this equipment, no airport can operate. Even before that, construction work on the passenger terminal will begin. After the installation is completed, the airport will be able to open under the rules of a derogation (special exemption).
At the same time, technical preparations are being carried out alongside staff training. Out of nearly 400 applicants, 10 employees have been approved and are currently undergoing a specialised aviation security course.
The airport’s firefighting service is being restructured, and the next step will be preparations for the construction of hangars.
“I hope that by New Year we will welcome the first aircraft,” Rashkov predicted.
According to him, negotiations have already begun with various airlines and airports, with the main focus being on airports in Romania and Greece. The goal is for Gorna Oryahovitsa to become a convenient air connection for tourists visiting the region.
The mayor is convinced that restoring the airport will bring significant economic benefits. In his view, the biggest winner will be the tourism sector in Veliko Tarnovo, which attracts visitors all year round.
The mayor also hopes to see increased investor interest in Gorna Oryahovitsa. Two entrepreneurs have announced plans to build four-star hotels in the railway town, while existing accommodation providers are modernising their facilities.

“The advantage of Gorna Oryahovitsa is that it is only 5 km from Tsarevets and there is no problem with parking,” the mayor said.

At present, the airport handles a limited number of flights, mainly related to emergency medical situations, government aircraft landings and charter flights, as well as training flights.
It is the oldest operational airport in Bulgaria and has international status. In 2025, it celebrated its 100th anniversary.