Podcast in English
Text size
Bulgarian National Radio © 2025 All Rights Reserved

New runway near Plovdiv will be suitable for heavy transport aircraft

Photo: BTA / Photo: БТА

A new runway has been opened at the Graf Ignatievo airbase. It has been upgraded for the new F-16 fighter jets expected in 2025. 

"Another 4 out of 49 reconstruction projects at the airbase are essential to accommodate the F-16 fighter jets. The companies carrying out these projects have assured that they will be completed by the end of the year," said interim Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov. 

During the ceremony, the MiG-29s were redeployed from Plovdiv airport and resumed flying and combat operations at the 3rd Fighter Air Base Graf Ignatievo. In addition to the fighter aircraft, the new runway will now be able to land some of the largest American C-5 and C-17 strategic transport aircraft. The runway will also accommodate aerial refuelling tankers, according to the Ministry of Defence.



Последвайте ни и в Google News Showcase, за да научите най-важното от деня!
Listen to the daily news from Bulgaria presented in "Bulgaria Today" podcast, available in Spotify.

More from category

President Rumen Radev expresses hope that "Journey of Faith" will attract pilgrims from abroad

The head of state Rumen Radev, together with the Bulgarian Patriarch Daniil, launched the "Journey of Faith" initiative and expressed hope that the march would popularize Bulgaria's millennial history, culture, traditions and beautiful nature, BTA has..

published on 8/1/25 6:08 PM

Hundreds of Orthodox Christians set off on a pilgrimage to the Rila Monastery

Bulgarian Patriarch Daniil has served a festive liturgy and water blessing for the feast of the Procession of the Holy Cross of the Lord in the St. Sophia church in Sofia. After the service, together with President Rumen Radev, the two launched the..

published on 8/1/25 4:39 PM
Bulgarian National Bank building

Bulgarian National Bank reduces base interest rate

The base interest rate in the country is being reduced to 1.82% as of 1 August 2025, the Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) has announced. The reduction is by 0.09% compared to July, when it was 1.91%. The simple annual interest rate is being reduced..

published on 8/1/25 11:16 AM