The Ministry of Tourism is taking decisive steps to restore an extremely important transportation connection between Bulgaria and the United States of America. During an official meeting between Minister Miroslav Borshosh and AmCham Executive Director Ivan Mihaylov, the prospects for a direct air route between Sofia and New York were discussed.

Expert analyses reveal an impressive potential for passenger traffic growth. Forecasts indicate a possible increase of over 350 percent, which would mean approximately 85,000 passengers annually on this route. The statistical data is eloquent - 87 percent of travelers between the two cities have no alternative routes.

Minister Borshosh emphasized the strategic importance of the initiative, highlighting its significance for expanding tourism and economic opportunities. Restoring the direct route is viewed as a key mechanism for attracting American tourists and potential investors to Bulgaria.

For his part, Ivan Mihaylov from the American Chamber of Commerce highlighted the importance of bilateral partnership and the commitment to improving the investment climate. Both sides demonstrated unanimity regarding the need to deepen economic and cultural ties.

Official estimates from the Ministry indicate the possibility of attracting an additional 250,000 tourists from markets such as North America, South America, and Southeast Asia by creating an integrated Balkan tourism product.

Statistical data from the National Statistical Institute confirms the growing interest. In June, 6,157 American citizens visited Bulgaria, with 4,790 of them for vacation and sightseeing. For comparison, Romanian citizens made 242,200 visits during the same period.

The historical context is eloquent - the last regular direct flight from Sofia to New York was operated by airline "Balkan" in 1999. At that time, the Federal Aviation Agency prohibited Bulgarian carriers from flying to US airports, but this ban was lifted in 2008.

Restoring the direct air connection is emerging as a strategic priority that could transform the tourism and economic relations between the two countries.