Aviation News – Sofia International Airport will temporarily suspend all civilian air traffic on February 23 and 24 as a growing number of U.S. military aircraft operate from the Bulgarian hub, signaling one of the largest American air force deployments toward Europe and the Middle East in years.
The nighttime restrictions apply to specific time windows when only military movements are permitted. Data from Flightradar24 show that non-military flights will be halted on February 23 between 01:15 and 02:50 and on February 24 between 01:05 and 03:35. Observers describe the activity as the most significant U.S. air mobility effort since the Iraq invasion in 2003. At least six KC-135R tanker aircraft from MacDill Air Force Base have been recorded on the ground in Sofia.
Boeing C-17A Globemaster II 07-7169 3rd AS USAF | Rob Vogelaar
The KC-135R Stratotanker provides aerial refueling, allowing fighter jets, bombers, and transport aircraft to extend range and remain airborne longer without landing. This capability enables rapid force projection and flexible deployment across regions. Clearing civilian traffic at Sofia International Airport helps ensure safe and uninterrupted military operations during intensive flight activity.