About BH Air
BH Air is a Bulgarian charter airline headquartered in Sofia, Bulgaria. Operating under IATA code 8H and ICAO code BGH, the airline specialises in providing charter flight services to tour operators and travel agencies across Europe. Founded in 2001, BH Air began commercial operations in January 2002 and has since grown into one of Bulgaria's most recognised charter carriers.
The airline is part-owned by Balkan Holidays Services, a Sofia-based travel and aviation group. BH Air's primary base is at Sofia Airport, with secondary operational bases at Burgas Airport, Varna Airport, and Plovdiv International Airport. These four Bulgarian airports serve as key departure and arrival points for the airline's extensive charter network.
BH Air focuses on serving tour operators in the United Kingdom, Scandinavia, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and other European countries. In addition to scheduled charter programmes, the airline also operates ad hoc charter flights to destinations across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East for cultural events, sports tournaments, and business delegations. With over two decades of experience, BH Air has transported well over 100,000 passengers annually during peak seasons, making it a trusted name in European charter aviation.
Airline Overview and History
BH Air has a rich history spanning more than two decades in the Bulgarian aviation industry. From humble beginnings with a single aircraft, the airline has grown into a reliable charter operator serving destinations across Europe and beyond.
- 2001 — BH Air was founded in Sofia, Bulgaria, as a charter airline affiliated with Balkan Holidays Services.
- January 2002 — Commercial operations commenced with charter flights connecting Sofia, Plovdiv, Burgas, and Varna to destinations in the United Kingdom, initially operating under contract with the UK tour operator Balkan Holidays Ltd.
- 2002 — The airline started with a single Tupolev Tu-154M aircraft, quickly expanding to four Tu-154Ms within a few months to meet growing demand.
- Summer 2003 — BH Air introduced its first Airbus aircraft into the fleet, marking a significant step towards fleet modernisation. The airline subsequently leased three additional Airbus A320s, bringing the total fleet to eight aircraft comprising four Tu-154Ms and four A320s.
- 2006 — The airline retired its entire fleet of Tupolev Tu-154M aircraft, transitioning fully to the modern and fuel-efficient Airbus A320 family.
- July 2014 — BH Air leased its first widebody aircraft, an Airbus A330-223 powered by Pratt & Whitney engines, from AWAS. This enabled the airline to operate long-haul charter flights to destinations in Asia and Africa.
- 2017 — The Airbus A330-223 lease concluded, and the airline returned to an all-narrowbody fleet focused on European charter routes.
- April 2025 — Balkan Holidays Ltd, the UK-based tour operator, ceased trading in the United Kingdom, resulting in the cancellation of BH Air charter flights from British airports. The airline continued to operate charter services from other European markets.
Today, BH Air remains an active charter carrier based in Sofia. The airline's operations are characterised by strong seasonality, with peak activity from May to October driven by Black Sea beach tourism. During the summer months, frequent charter flights serve Burgas and Varna to accommodate high demand from European holidaymakers heading to Bulgaria's popular coastal resorts.
Fleet and Aircraft
BH Air operates a streamlined and modern fleet designed to meet the demands of medium-haul charter operations across Europe. The airline's current fleet consists of Airbus A320-200 aircraft, a proven and widely used narrowbody jet in the global aviation industry.
- Airbus A320-200 — BH Air currently operates three Airbus A320-200 aircraft. Each aircraft is configured to carry up to 180 passengers in a dual-class layout featuring Economy and Business class cabins. The A320-200 is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable cabin dimensions, making it an ideal choice for flights typically ranging from two to five hours in duration.
In terms of historical fleet composition, BH Air previously operated Tupolev Tu-154M aircraft from 2002 until their retirement in 2006. The airline also leased an Airbus A330-223 widebody aircraft from 2014 to 2017 for long-haul charter operations to Asia and Africa. Currently, the fleet is standardised around the A320 platform, which simplifies maintenance, crew training, and operational efficiency.
BH Air maintains strict safety and maintenance standards in compliance with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations. All aircraft undergo regular inspections and scheduled maintenance to ensure the highest levels of airworthiness and passenger safety.
Top Flight Routes
As a charter airline, BH Air's route network is largely determined by seasonal demand and tour operator contracts. The airline's primary routes connect major European cities to Bulgaria's most popular tourist destinations along the Black Sea coast and in the mountainous regions.
Key charter routes operated by BH Air include:
- Sofia to London — One of BH Air's longest-running charter routes, connecting Bulgaria's capital with the United Kingdom. This route has historically been among the airline's busiest, serving both summer beach holiday and winter ski holiday passengers.
- Burgas to London — A peak-season favourite, bringing British holidaymakers directly to Bulgaria's Black Sea coast for summer beach holidays in resorts like Sunny Beach and Nessebar.
- Varna to London — Serving the northern Black Sea coast, this route provides access to Golden Sands and other popular resort areas near Varna.
- Sofia to Scandinavian cities — Charter flights connecting Sofia with cities in Sweden, Denmark, and Norway for tour groups heading to Bulgaria.
- Sofia to German cities — Regular charter services to and from major German cities during the summer and winter holiday seasons.
- Burgas and Varna to Italian cities — Seasonal charter routes serving Italian tour operators and holidaymakers seeking Black Sea beach holidays.
If you are travelling from Malaysia and connecting through European hubs, Traveloka offers convenient flight search tools for routes such as Kuala Lumpur to London, Kuala Lumpur to Paris, and Kuala Lumpur to Amsterdam, which can serve as gateways to Bulgaria and BH Air's charter destinations.
For travellers exploring Southeast Asia and beyond, Traveloka also helps you find flights on popular routes like Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur to Singapore, Kuala Lumpur to Bali, and Kuala Lumpur to Hong Kong.
Baggage Allowance and Policies
BH Air provides a straightforward baggage policy for all passengers. Understanding these allowances before your flight ensures a smooth check-in experience and helps you avoid unexpected charges.
Checked Baggage
- Free allowance: Each passenger (excluding infants) is entitled to a free checked baggage allowance of 20 kg.
- Excess baggage fees: Baggage exceeding the 20 kg free allowance is charged at GBP 4.00 or EUR 5.00 per kilogram per flight leg.
- Infant passengers: Infants under 2 years old travelling on an adult's lap do not receive a free checked baggage allowance.
Cabin Baggage (Hand Luggage)
- Pieces allowed: One piece of hand baggage per passenger.
- Maximum weight: 7 kg.
- Maximum dimensions: 60 cm x 40 cm x 30 cm (length x width x height).
- Storage: Hand baggage must fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead locker.
Important Reminders
- Valuable items, travel documents, passports, house keys, and medication should always be packed in your cabin baggage, not in checked luggage.
- Prohibited items include sharp objects, flammable substances, and any items restricted by international aviation security regulations.
- Oversized or heavy sporting equipment may be subject to additional charges. Contact BH Air or your tour operator in advance to arrange special baggage handling.
Check-in Guide
BH Air offers airport counter check-in at all departure airports. Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport well in advance of their scheduled departure time to allow sufficient time for check-in, security screening, and boarding.
Airport Counter Check-in
- Check-in opens: Approximately 2 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Check-in closes: 45 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
- Required documents: A valid passport or national identity card (for intra-EU travel), your booking confirmation or e-ticket, and any visa documents required for your destination.
Online Check-in
Online check-in availability may vary depending on the route and tour operator arrangement. Passengers are advised to check with their tour operator or visit the BH Air website for the latest information on online check-in options for their specific flight.
Check-in Tips
- Arrive at the airport at least 2.5 to 3 hours before departure, especially during peak summer season when airports in Burgas and Varna experience high passenger volumes.
- Have all travel documents readily accessible to speed up the check-in process.
- Ensure your checked baggage is within the 20 kg free allowance to avoid excess baggage fees at the counter.
- You can monitor your flight schedule and any changes by visiting the Traveloka Flight Status page.
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
BH Air offers two cabin classes on its Airbus A320-200 aircraft: Economy Class and Business Class. Both classes are designed to provide comfortable travel for charter flights typically lasting between two and five hours.
Economy Class
- Seating: Standard Economy class seating in a 3-3 configuration with comfortable seat pitch suitable for short to medium-haul flights.
- Extra legroom: Select seats with additional legroom are available for passengers who prefer more space. These can be requested during check-in, subject to availability.
- In-flight service: Snacks, meals, and beverages are available for purchase on board. BH Air operates a buy-on-board catering model for Economy class passengers.
Business Class
- Seating: Business class offers enhanced seat comfort with greater legroom and recline compared to Economy.
- Service: Business class passengers enjoy complimentary meal and beverage service during the flight.
- Priority: Business class passengers benefit from priority boarding and dedicated cabin crew attention.
In-Flight Entertainment and Amenities
- BH Air does not offer seatback in-flight entertainment screens. Passengers are encouraged to bring their own entertainment devices such as tablets, e-readers, or smartphones for the journey.
- An on-board magazine is available for all passengers, featuring destination guides and travel inspiration.
- Duty-free shopping is available on board, offering a selection of perfumes, cosmetics, accessories, and other products at competitive prices.
Passenger Policies and Special Services
BH Air is committed to accommodating all passengers, including those who may require special assistance or have specific travel needs. The following policies apply to various passenger categories.
Children and Infants
- Infants (under 2 years): Infants may travel on an adult's lap at a reduced fare. Each adult passenger may accompany only one infant. Infants do not receive a separate checked baggage allowance.
- Children (2 to 11 years): Children aged 2 and above require their own seat and are entitled to the standard checked baggage allowance of 20 kg.
- Required documents: A valid passport or birth certificate is required for all children and infants. International travel requires a valid passport regardless of age.
Pregnant Passengers
- Pregnant passengers are generally accepted for travel up to the 36th week of pregnancy for single pregnancies and up to the 32nd week for multiple pregnancies.
- A medical certificate from a qualified physician or midwife confirming the expected due date and fitness to fly may be required for travel after the 28th week of pregnancy.
- Passengers are advised to contact BH Air or their tour operator in advance to confirm specific requirements for their booking.
Special Assistance
- Wheelchair assistance: Passengers requiring wheelchair assistance should notify BH Air or their tour operator at least 48 hours before departure to ensure appropriate arrangements are made at the airport.
- Medical equipment: Passengers travelling with medical equipment or mobility aids should contact the airline in advance for approval and to arrange cabin or cargo storage.
- Unaccompanied minors: BH Air's policy on unaccompanied minors may vary by route. Parents or guardians should contact the airline directly to confirm eligibility and arrange the necessary documentation and supervision.
Frequent Flyer Programme
BH Air does not currently operate a dedicated frequent flyer or loyalty rewards programme. As a charter airline primarily serving tour operators, the airline's booking and ticketing process is typically managed through travel agencies and tour companies rather than direct consumer channels.
However, passengers who frequently travel with BH Air can still benefit from loyalty programmes offered by their preferred travel booking platforms. Traveloka, for example, offers its own rewards system that allows travellers to accumulate points and enjoy benefits across multiple bookings.
Alternatives for Earning Travel Rewards
- Traveloka Points: When you book flights through Traveloka, you can earn Traveloka Points that may be redeemed for discounts on future bookings, including flights, hotels, and other travel products.
- Credit card miles: Many Malaysian credit cards offer air miles or travel reward points for flight purchases. Check with your bank to see if your card provides rewards when booking flights through Traveloka.
- Tour operator loyalty schemes: Some tour operators that charter BH Air flights may offer their own repeat customer discounts or loyalty benefits. Check with your preferred tour operator for details.
Why Book BH Air Flights on Traveloka
Traveloka is one of Southeast Asia's leading travel platforms, offering a seamless and convenient way to search, compare, and book flights from a wide range of airlines including charter carriers like BH Air. Here are the key benefits of booking through Traveloka.
- Comprehensive search results: Traveloka aggregates flights from hundreds of airlines, allowing you to compare prices, schedules, and routes in one place to find the best option for your trip to Bulgaria and beyond.
- Secure payment options: Traveloka supports multiple payment methods popular in Malaysia, including credit and debit cards, online banking, and e-wallets such as Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, and ShopeePay.
- Instant e-tickets: Once your payment is confirmed, your e-ticket is generated and sent to your email and Traveloka app instantly. No need to visit a physical counter or wait for manual processing.
- 24/7 customer support: Traveloka's customer service team is available around the clock to assist with booking enquiries, changes, and any travel-related issues.
- Price transparency: All prices displayed on Traveloka include taxes and fees, so there are no hidden charges at checkout.
- Bundled travel deals: Save more by bundling your flight booking with hotel accommodation, airport transfers, or travel insurance through Traveloka's all-in-one platform.
BH Air Promotions and Deals on Traveloka
Finding affordable BH Air charter flights is easier when you take advantage of the deals and promotions available on Traveloka. Whether you are planning a summer holiday to Bulgaria's Black Sea coast or a winter ski trip to the Bulgarian mountains, these tips can help you secure the best fares.
- Book early: Charter flights tend to fill up quickly during peak summer and winter seasons. Booking well in advance gives you access to the widest selection of seats and the most competitive prices.
- Use Traveloka Price Alerts: Set up price alerts on Traveloka to receive notifications when fares drop on your preferred routes. This is especially useful for tracking charter flight pricing, which can fluctuate based on demand.
- Travel during off-peak periods: Flights during shoulder seasons in April to May and September to October often come with lower fares compared to the peak summer months of June to August.
- Check for promo codes: Traveloka regularly releases promo codes and vouchers that can be applied to flight bookings for additional savings.
- Compare connecting options: If direct charter flights are not available on your preferred dates, compare connecting flight options through European hubs to find the best combination of price and convenience.
- Fly midweek: Departing on a Tuesday or Wednesday often results in lower fares compared to weekend flights, as demand tends to be lower on weekdays.
- Bundle flight and hotel: Traveloka offers package deals that combine flights with hotel stays, potentially saving you more than booking each component separately.
How to Book BH Air Tickets on Traveloka
Booking BH Air flights on Traveloka is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few minutes. Follow these steps to secure your tickets.
- Visit Traveloka: Open the Traveloka website or mobile app. Select the Flights tab on the homepage to begin your search.
- Enter your travel details: Input your departure city, destination, travel dates, number of passengers, and preferred cabin class. Click Search to view available flights.
- Browse and compare results: Review the list of available flights, including options from BH Air and other airlines. Use filters to sort by price, departure time, number of stops, or airline to narrow down your choices.
- Select your flight: Choose the BH Air flight that best suits your schedule and budget. Review the fare details, including baggage allowance and any included services.
- Enter passenger information: Fill in the required passenger details, including full name as it appears on your passport, date of birth, and contact information for all travellers in your booking.
- Choose add-ons: Select any optional add-ons such as travel insurance, extra baggage, or seat selection if available for your chosen flight.
- Complete payment: Choose your preferred payment method from options including credit or debit cards, online banking, or e-wallets such as Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, or ShopeePay. Confirm your payment to finalise the booking.
- Receive your e-ticket: Once payment is confirmed, your e-ticket and booking confirmation will be sent to your registered email address and will also appear in the My Booking section of the Traveloka app. Present your e-ticket at the airport during check-in.
For real-time updates on your BH Air flight schedule, visit the Traveloka Flight Status page to track departures and arrivals.