Burgas – Sozopol by Air Taxi: A Revolutionary 2026 Project for Black Sea Tourists

Bulgaria is preparing to make a technological breakthrough in the field of tourist transportation: between Burgas An air taxi service is planned for Sozopol and the surrounding area. This innovative passenger drone project could become a reality in the coming years, opening a new chapter in the development of tourism infrastructure on the Black Sea coast.

Project details and implementation timeframes

Todor Ivandzhikov, Chairman of the Association of the Bulgarian Aviation Industry (ABAP), presented an ambitious plan at the "Brand Bulgaria – Hospitality in Four Seasons" discussion forum. The project envisions the creation of a network of heliports that will service passenger drones not only between Burgas and Sozopol, but also cover Nesebar, Primorsko, and Pomorie.

«"The project's infrastructure is fairly simple to implement," explains Ivandzhikov. "The heliports are modified helicopter pads adapted for unmanned aerial vehicles.".

International context and regulation

Bulgaria keeps pace with global trends:

• Dubai plans to launch air taxis in 2026
• Paris announced the project's launch in 2025.
• European cities are preparing to implement similar systems by 2026.

Currently, expert groups, together with the Ministry of Transport Bulgaria They are developing the necessary regulatory framework. "By the end of the year, we will complete the regulations, after which we expect certification from European regulators. By 2026, Bulgaria will be fully prepared to launch the project," Ivandzhikov asserts.

Tourism development prospects

The air taxi project is part of a larger strategy to develop tourism in Bulgaria. Particular attention is paid to:

Development of cruise tourism

Once the situation in the Black Sea stabilizes, it is planned to resume accepting cruise ships at the port. Burgas, from where tourists can quickly reach popular coastal cities by air taxi.

Entering Asian markets

«"The Asian region offers enormous potential for Bulgarian tourism," Ivandzhikov emphasizes. "The Thracian historical heritage and treasures are of particular interest, and could become a key factor in attracting tourists from Asia.".

Culinary tourism

Experts propose creating a Bulgarian equivalent of the Michelin rating to promote local gastronomy and quality products.

Necessary improvements

To successfully implement projects, the following is required:

1. Modernization of transport infrastructure, especially in mountainous areas
2. Strengthening Bulgaria's marketing promotion in international markets
3. Development of tourism products with an emphasis on the country's uniqueness
4. Improving the quality of service and expanding the range of services