Air cargo carrier SolitAir has operated its inaugural flight on the Dubai–Sofia route, marking the launch of its first service to the European Union. This new route was made possible by the company obtaining ACC3 certification from the Belgian aviation authority, authorizing the carrier to transport cargo and mail into the EU and the European Economic Area in compliance with aviation security regulations.
The link between the Dubai World Central (DWC) hub and Sofia’s Vrazhdebna Airport (Sofia Airport) provides direct access to Southeast European markets. It integrates SolitAir’s existing network – spanning the Middle East, Africa, and Asia – with the EU internal market for the first time. Company founder and CEO Hamdi Osman highlighted Sofia as the network’s first European hub – part of a strategy to connect key yet underserved trade routes – and noted the region’s growing demand for air cargo services in sectors such as e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, automotive components, and perishables.
The launch of this European route marks a significant step in the expansion of SolitAir’s network. Since commencing operations in October 2024, the company has grown to serve 56 routes across more than 34 countries, including an African network of 17 cities connected via its Nairobi hub. SolitAir currently operates a fleet of seven Boeing 737-800 BCF freighters and plans to expand to 20 aircraft based at its 20,440-square-meter cargo facility at Dubai World Central, enabling further development of its global logistics network and strengthening its international market presence.