Bulgaria’s largest airport had its own stand at the 14th World Route Development  in Kuala Lumpur.

At the Malaysian capital’s Convention Centre, 2,500 representatives of the aviation industry from around the world discussed its development at a time of a global financial crisis and bankruptcies. They voices hope that the rapid fall in fuel prices would bring some relief to the industry.

The forum, an annual stage to discuss future marketing possibilities, was attended by representatives of 450 airlines and more than 700 airports. “Over the past decade, Routes has helped build partnerships between airports and airlines”, said Mike Howarth, Chairman of Routes. “During the last few months these partnerships have been put to the test, but the turnout at this year’s event shows that they have remained strong, even in tough times.”

A strong trend was visible at this year’s forum: the number of airlines requesting meetings with the airports they cooperate with was higher than ever. The explanation is that air carriers are convinced that airports, in partnership with regional tourist board and business organizations, can help them survive the crisis.

Sofia Airport representatives held a series of working meetings with airlines from Europe, the Middle East, Asia and North Amerika. The discussions were focused on assessing the future possibilities of opening new direct air routes between Sofia and large cities of increasing interest in those parts of the world.

It is expected that in the next couple of years the trend of introducing new airlines, which in partnership with the national carrier will offer more and more connecting flights, will continue. At the same time, the airlines which have already set foot on the Bulgarian market will increase the capacity of the scheduled flights to Sofia they operate.

The stand of Sofia Airport, the only Bulgarian representative at Routes, stood out with its balanced style and elegance. A great number of visitors were intrigued by the wonderful tourist possibilities in Sofia and Bulgaria. The aviation experts highly appreciated the information about Sofia Airport, the most dynamically developing airport on the Balkan Peninsula over the last two years.

Visitors at the stand took part in a draw and the prize from Wine and Spa Hotel Todoroff went to Mr Luka Roika, General Manager Aviation Network Development and Sales of Slovenian air carrier Adria Airways.