Sofia Airport sets up the first private 5G network in Bulgaria

The first private 5G mobile network in Bulgaria will be created on the territory of Sofia International Airport “Vasil Levski”. The technology will be implemented by A1 Bulgaria in partnership with the Greek telecommunications equipment company Wings ICT. The investment is almost 6 million euros, with 4.5 million euros coming from the EU Recovery and Resilience Plan.

According to the plan, the 5G network should become operational in 36 months.

The project places Sofia Airport among only 4 out of 600 European airports currently developing their own private 5G networks. The construction of the 5G network is part of the airport concessionaire’s (SOF Connect) ambitions to digitalize the airport and turn it into a modern and high-tech facility.

Passengers are expected to experience the benefits of the high-speed network, which will enable the use of IoT sensors, analytics and AI, reducing waiting times and optimising terminal flow. In addition, it will improve security through advanced video surveillance and intelligent traffic management.

In addition to day-to-day operations, 5G will play a key role in supporting emergency services. Fast and reliable connectivity will allow for more effective coordination in emergencies, which is essential for everyone's safety.

Once operational, the new network will provide almost 100% outdoor coverage and 98.9% indoor coverage in key areas of the airport.

The private network is part of the EU's broader digital transformation strategy, for which it is investing billions of euros. Vienna Airport is one of those that is setting up its own 5G network. It is also funded by Brussels and developed by A1 Group.

Translated by Tzvetozar Vincent Iolov