Swissport, the global leader in aviation services, has strengthened its Central and Eastern European cargo network with the opening of a new air cargo warehouse at Vasil Levski Sofia Airport, expanding its logistics infrastructure in Bulgaria and strengthening the airport’s role as a regional cargo gateway.

The newly licensed cargo facility offers 2,200 sqm of warehouse space, including 2,000 sqm of storage capacity, designed to support growing air freight volumes and the evolving needs of airlines, freight forwarders, and logistics partners. The warehouse is strategically located only 80 meters from the apron, enabling faster aircraft turnaround times and seamless cargo flow that reduces dwell time and enhances supply chain efficiency for customers.

“With the opening of this new cargo warehouse in Sofia, we are strengthening Swissport’s cargo network in Central and Eastern Europe while supporting Bulgaria’s growing role in international trade,” said Dirk Goovaerts, CEO Continental Europe, Middle East, Africa, India & Global Cargo Chair at Swissport. “Bulgaria’s strategic location in Southeast Europe makes Sofia an important gateway for regional trade flows. This new facility enhances our ability to provide airline and logistics partners with reliable cargo handling, efficient turnaround times, and strong connectivity across our global network."

The warehouse is equipped to handle a wide range of cargo types, including general cargo, pharmaceuticals, perishables, e-commerce shipments, and special cargo such as live animals (AVI) and valuables (VAL). Temperature-controlled storage areas include dedicated cool, freeze, and controlled room temperature (CRT), ensuring appropriate handling for sensitive and time-critical shipments while maintaining full cold chain integrity and pharmaceutical compliance standards.

The Sofia facility will incorporate Swissport's advanced digital cargo management platform, providing customers with real-time shipment visibility and tracking throughout the entire handling process. Automated documentation workflows, integrated customs clearance systems, and seamless connectivity with airline and forwarder platforms deliver the operational transparency and efficiency modern supply chains require.

Advanced screening and security systems, including X-ray and physical screening, support Swissport’s role as a regulated agent within the secure air cargo supply chain. The facility also features CCTV monitoring, a secure vault, and a large, fenced yard of approximately 2,000 sqm, enabling efficient road feeder service (RFS) operations.

The warehouse operates under ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 certifications, reinforcing Swissport’s commitment to quality, environmental responsibility, and occupational health and safety across its global network.

With the opening of the new cargo facility Swissport provides a comprehensive portfolio of aviation services in Sofia, including ground operations, cargo handling, and Aspire lounge hospitality. This integrated service offering enables airlines to benefit from a single-trusted partner for seamless end-to-end airport services.

The Sofia opening is part of Swissport's ongoing investment programme to modernize and expand its global cargo infrastructure with next-generation facilities and digital capabilities across key growth markets.

Swissport currently operates across 122 warehouses in 31 countries, handling more than 5.2 million tons of cargo annually and supporting global supply chains with reliable, efficient logistics services.