SOF Connect in Partnership with the Technology Companies A1 Bulgaria and Wings ICT Solutions Implement State-of-the-Art 5G Private Mobile Network at Sofia Airport

SOF Connect is taking a bold step into the future of airport innovation with the implementation of a state-of-the-art 5G mobile private network. In partnership with A1 Bulgaria and WINGS ICT Solutions, this transformative project, 5G SAMITEA (Sofia Airport Mobile Private Network Powered by A1), will revolutionize passenger experience, operational efficiency, and security through cutting-edge connectivity.

The project was officially launched today by Jesus Caballero – CEO of SOF Connect, Todor Tashev – Senior Director “Competence Delivery Center” in A1 Bulgaria and

Panagiotis Demestichas, Co-Founder – Chairman of the BoD of WINGS ICT Solutions.
Special guest at the event was Yordanka Chobanova – Head of European Commission Representation in Bulgaria.

“The implementation of the 5G mobile private network at Vasil Levski Sofia Airport is a game-changer. It represents a major leap toward smarter, safer, and more efficient airport operations. This initiative not only enhances passenger experience but also strengthens our position as a leading innovator among European airports,” said Jesus Caballero.

With only four out of 600 European airports currently developing 5G technology, this initiative firmly positions the capital’s airport at the forefront of digital transformation, reinforcing its status as one of the most innovative regional air hubs in Europe.

“Enhancing lifestyles, driving innovation, and empowering businesses through technology leadership lies at the core of А1’s strategy. We are proud to elevate Sofia Airport to one of the most advanced in passenger safety and comfort globally. This project showcases our high-tech expertise, skilled professionals, and state-of-the-art 5G ULTRA network,” said Todor Tashev.

“We are proud to collaborate with А1 and SOF Connect on this groundbreaking project. By integrating IoT and AI into the airport’s operations, we aim to set a new standard for efficiency, safety, and passenger comfort,” said Panagiotis Demestichas, Co-Founder – Chairman of the BoD of WINGS ICT Solutions.

The project, valued at €5,921,500 and co-funded by the European Union’s Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) with €4,441,125, is set to be completed over a 36-month period.

Once operational, the 5G network will cover an impressive 8 square kilometers, ensuring nearly 100% outdoor and 98.9% indoor coverage across the airport’s key areas, including aprons, terminals, and operational facilities. Leveraging IoT sensors and AI-driven analytics, the network will significantly reduce passenger waiting times, optimize terminal flow, and provide advanced security measures such as perimetric video surveillance, intelligent ground traffic management, and rapid emergency response coordination.

Beyond enhancing airport operations, the 5G mobile private network will play a crucial role in supporting public authorities, including law enforcement, fire brigades, and emergency medical services, by providing robust connectivity and real-time data analysis for swift decision-making in critical situations.

This groundbreaking project aligns with A1 Group’s broader vision for digital infrastructure advancement, as a similar initiative, “5GFORVIE,” is being developed at Vienna Airport with €4.1 million in EU funding. Together, these projects reinforce the role of 5G technology in shaping the future of European aviation.

With this strategic investment in next-generation connectivity, Sofia Airport is not only improving operational efficiency and security but also redefining the travel experience, placing Bulgaria on the map as a leader in smart airport technology.

This is the second project that SOF Connect is implementing with European funding, following the electrification of ground operations project, ESAGO, valued at €1,860,000, with the EU’s contribution amounting to €930,000.

Learn more about the project for the first private 5G network in Bulgaria HERE