Forget the predictable city event. On 17 October, one of Bulgaria's most dynamic October programmes will take place on an airport apron.
Aviation Day 2026 at Gorna Oryahovitsa Airport is built around a simple idea: let the public see aviation up close while giving industry and business a serious place to meet. The result is a hybrid event combining aircraft demonstrations, static displays, technology, education, premium cars, music and a private business forum.
Gorna Oryahovitsa Airport is located in central northern Bulgaria (43°09′N, 25°43′E), about 12 km from Veliko Tarnovo. Positioned near Veliko Tarnovo and at the intersection of key national transport routes, the airport offers strong connectivity for regional logistics, cargo flows and business travel support.
Galya Raycheva is involved in the organization of the event. The airport hosts the forum, the Municipality of Gorna Oryahovitsa supports it and TouchPoint is the organizational partner.
The guest environment is also part of the story. The organizers' current partial invitation list includes Todor Ivandzhikov, President of the Bulgarian Aviation Industry Association; Aneliya Marinova, Director General of the Civil Aviation Administration; Eng. Daniel Panov, Mayor of Veliko Tarnovo; Vasil Hristov, Mayor of Lyaskovets; and senior regional business figures. Because the list is still being finalized, these are invited guests rather than confirmed attendees.
The biggest aviation attraction is the Diamond Aircraft presentation. The Austrian manufacturer is a strategic partner, and the event materials list the DA40 NG, DA42-VI, DA50 RG and DA62. Together they offer visitors a snapshot of contemporary light aviation.
But the programme does not stop at aircraft. Drone and technology companies, aviation schools and academies are expected in dedicated zones. Range Rover joins as a strategic partner, bringing premium automotive mobility into the same environment. Local producers, artistic performances and hospitality elements widen the experience beyond an industry-only gathering.
The setting itself is part of the novelty. Gorna Oryahovitsa is developing a stronger identity around industry, logistics and connectivity. Its airport has potential in civil aviation, cargo, aircraft maintenance, business aviation and training, while a major industrial park is being developed nearby.
