jordan pulse -

The first charter flight of the 2025 winter season from Bulgaria’s capital Sofia lands at King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba, carrying 137 tourists. The flight is organised by Bulgaria’s ABAX tourism company, with Travco Jordan as its local agent, under the charter-flight programme supporting Aqaba’s winter tourism season.

Tourism Minister Imad Hijazeen says the flight strengthens confidence in Jordan’s tourism product and signals expanding European interest in Aqaba as a distinctive destination. He notes that the ministry, in partnership with the Jordan Tourism Board, the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority and the private sector, works to attract more charter flights and develop integrated tourism programmes.

Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority Commissioner for Tourism and Youth Thabet Hassouneh Al-Nabulsi says the return of charter flights to King Hussein International Airport is central to boosting winter tourism. He adds that these flights raise hotel occupancy and stimulate economic sectors across the city, noting Aqaba’s strong appeal for international visitors.

He says the authority is working with the ministry and the tourism board to expand air links and increase regular and charter flights to the city, stressing that continued arrivals will reinforce Aqaba’s position as a leading winter destination.

Jordan Tourism Board Deputy Director-General Wael Al-Rousan says charter flights are a key driver of tourism, especially from European markets. He says the start of flights from Bulgaria this season reflects growing European interest in Aqaba and in Jordan’s tourism product overall. He adds that the board is expanding charter networks with European countries, given their direct impact on visitor numbers and tourism activity, and says cooperation with major companies opens new avenues for advanced tourism products that enhance Aqaba’s competitiveness as a winter destination.