Bulgaria Poised to Lead Advanced Air Mobility in the Balkans

Bulgaria has a strong opportunity to become a leader in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) in the Balkans, according to a report by the Advanced Air Mobility Institute (AAMI). The report, published after the global AAM forum GAAMF 2025, analyzes air mobility developments, regulatory challenges, and market trends across 70+ countries, CE Report quotes BTA

Dr. Ivo Barzov, an aviation expert and AAMI board liaison for Bulgaria, highlights the country's potential as a regional technology hub. As an EU member, Bulgaria adheres to European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) guidelines and collaborates with local aviation authorities to develop a balanced regulatory framework for drones. Key initiatives include a test zone in Rakovski, providing a controlled environment for drone operations and AAM technologies.

Barzov notes that U-space zones, designed for UAV management, could expand across Bulgaria, fostering further technological growth. The sector is also backed by companies like Bulgarian startup Dronamics, which has successfully tested its Black Swan cargo drone. Events like the Inter Drone Expo in Sofia will further drive innovation and collaboration.

The AAMI report emphasizes that strategic U-space development and international cooperation can solidify Bulgaria’s leadership in the region. Barzov stresses that achieving this requires not just technological investment but also a coordinated strategy covering regulatory, social, and economic aspects.

AAM aims to integrate drones, electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, and other air transport technologies into existing infrastructure, improving efficiency and sustainability. AAMI President Daniel Sloat sees 2025 as a pivotal year for air mobility, despite financial hurdles, and underscores the need for talent and strong ecosystems to drive the industry forward.