What is happening at Sofia Airport on February 23–24?

Sofia International Airport plans brief overnight suspensions of civilian traffic across February 23–24. Daytime operations are expected to continue. The pause may create short, concentrated waves of delays, diversions, or retimes. Exact windows are subject to operational notices, so travellers should monitor airline alerts and airport updates closely.

Which UK flights are most likely to be affected?

Late departures from London airports to Sofia, plus overnight or pre dawn returns, face the most risk. Flights that coincide with the pauses, or rely on tight turnarounds, may be retimed or rerouted. Daytime services are less exposed, but early morning rotations could see knock on effects if recovery is slow.

Do passengers get compensation for these delays?

Under EU261, airlines must provide care such as meals, hotels, and rebooking during long delays. Cash compensation depends on the cause and distance. If the disruption is outside an airline’s control, compensation may not apply, but care duties typically still do. Always keep receipts and follow your airline’s guidance.

How could this affect airline stocks?

The financial impact should be limited if operations recover before the morning peak. Risks rise if delays push into early waves, adding passenger care and crew costs. We would watch cancellation totals, on time performance from Sofia and key EU hubs, and any schedule trims that signal a slower recovery.

Global Market Insights

Sofia Airport on February 23: Night Closure Puts EU Travel on Delay Watch

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 23, 2026February 23, 2026

UK investors and travellers are on alert as the Sofia Airport closure February brings overnight suspensions on 23–24 February. Short pauses in civilian traffic raise the risk of Sofia flight delays, diversions, and early morning knock-on effects across Europe. For airlines, the key risk is schedule integrity and passenger care costs if delays spill into peak waves. For consumers, Bulgaria travel disruption could affect late departures from London and returns before dawn. We explain what to watch, who is exposed, and how to prepare today.