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A TAROM Boeing 737 MAX 8 in flight.
Airline

TAROM Fleet Renewal Sees Two New Boeing 737 MAX 8 Aircraft

by Len Varley
written by Len Varley

CDB Aviation, a prominent aircraft lessor, has announced a lease agreement with TAROM, Romania’s flag carrier for new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.

The deal involves the lease of two 737 MAX 8 narrowbody aircraft. This acquisition marks a crucial step in TAROM’s fleet modernization program.

A Legacy Airline Undergoes Transformation

TAROM boasts a rich history, being the longest-operating airline in Romania since its establishment seven decades ago.

TAROM is the national flag carrier and is based in Otopeni near Bucharest. Its headquarters and its main hub are at Henri Coandă International Airport.

The carrier has played a pivotal role in fostering the nation’s aviation industry and regional connectivity.

The Romanian flag carrier currently owns a fleet of 18 aircraft. 70 destinations are currently served by its own aircraft or by its code share partners.

Since 1993, TAROM has been a member company of the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

This strategic partnership with CDB Aviation marks TAROM’s move towards continued growth and market leadership.

The incoming Boeing 737 MAX 8s, configured to seat 189 passengers, are scheduled for delivery by the end of 2025.

These new additions will directly contribute to TAROM’s fleet standardization efforts, leading to substantial cost reductions.

Furthermore, the modern aircraft are expected to enhance operational efficiency and raise the overall passenger flying experience.

A TAROM Boeing 737 MAX 8 in flight.

Executive Statements Reflect Optimism

Jie Chen, CEO of CDB Aviation, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. He highlighted TAROM’s position as both a new European customer and a longstanding regional airline.

Chen anticipates a strong relationship and believes these MAX aircraft will solidify TAROM’s position. The operator now boasts one of the youngest fleets in the region.

Costin Iordache, TAROM’s CEO, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the significance of CDB Aviation’s expertise in supporting their fleet modernization goals.

Iordache expects the new airplanes to improve operational efficiency and provide a superior passenger experience.

This strategic lease agreement positions TAROM for continued success. It allows them to further modernize their fleet, enhance overall efficiency, and elevate passenger experience.

The addition of these Boeing 737 MAX 8s positions the national carrier to solidify its standing as a leader in Romania’s aviation sector.

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A TAROM Airlines Boeing 737-800 in flight.
Airline

EU Greenlights Restructuring Aid for Romanian Airline TAROM

by Len Varley
written by Len Varley

Romania received a critical boost for its national airline, TAROM, with the European Commission’s green light for a €95.3 million (RON 473.69 million) restructuring plan.

This aid aims to restore TAROM’s financial stability while minimizing disruptions in the European aviation market.

TAROM’s Path to Recovery

In May 2021, Romania presented a restructuring plan to the Commission. It outlined strategies to streamline TAROM’s operations, modernize its aging fleet, and cut costs.

Following a thorough review, the Commission requested adjustments to ensure the plan complied with EU state aid regulations.

Romania responded with an updated plan, which includes:

  • Debt Relief: Cancelling around €49.53 million (RON 246.19 million) in debt, encompassing the earlier rescue aid approved in February 2020 and accrued interest.
  • Capital Injection: Providing an additional €45.77 million (RON 227.50 million) to strengthen TAROM’s financial footing.
aeroprints.com, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

EU Commission’s Assessment

The Commission evaluated the plan based on its guidelines for supporting struggling businesses. Here are the factors that convinced them:

Maintaining Regional Connectivity: The restructuring aid serves a vital public purpose – ensuring continued regional air links for Romanian citizens and businesses, contingent on TAROM’s successful recovery.

Addressing Core Issues: The plan directly tackles the root causes of TAROM’s financial difficulties by focusing on modernizing their fleet and reducing operational costs.

Proportionate Support: TAROM demonstrates significant commitment to its own revival by generating approximately €77.66 million (RON 381.12 million) through aircraft sales and a market-rate financial lease.

Safeguarding Fair Competition: The plan mandates a reduction in TAROM’s routes and fleet size to minimize distortions in the European aviation market. This reduced capacity will be maintained for the duration of the restructuring, ending December 31, 2026.

Based on these factors, the Commission approved the restructuring plan, paving the way for TAROM’s financial turnaround. This move not only supports Romania’s national carrier but also ensures continued regional air connectivity for its citizens and businesses.

Christian Volpati (GFDL 1.2 or GFDL 1.2), via Wikimedia Commons

History of TAROM Airlines

TAROM, standing for Transporturile Aeriene Române (Romanian Air Transport), is Romania’s national airline.

Its history stretches back decades, reflecting the evolution of air travel itself. Here’s a glimpse into TAROM’s journey.

Early Days and Soviet Influence (1920s – 1950s)

TAROM’s roots can be traced back to the 1920s with the establishment of the French-Romanian Company for Air Navigation (CFRNA). This early carrier operated the first transcontinental route connecting Bucharest to Paris. Following World War II and Soviet influence in Eastern Europe, CFRNA transformed into TARS (Transporturi Aeriene Româno-Sovietice) – a joint venture between Romania and the USSR.

 During this period, TAROM primarily operated Soviet-designed aircraft like the Ilyushin Il-14 and Li-2s, serving domestic destinations.

Independence and Expansion (1950s – 1990s)

In 1954, Romania acquired the Soviet stake in TARS, marking the official birth of TAROM. The newly independent airline quickly expanded its network, reaching most European capitals within a few years.

By the 1960s, TAROM ventured beyond Europe, operating its first transatlantic flight in 1966. The 1970s saw further expansion with long-haul routes to New York, Beijing, and even Sydney.

During this era, TAROM played a vital role in connecting Romania to the world and facilitating trade and travel.

Post-Communism and Modernization (1990s – Present)

The fall of communism in Romania in 1989 ushered in a new era for TAROM. The airline transitioned from state control to a joint-stock company in the early 1990s.

This period also saw a focus on fleet modernization, gradually replacing Soviet aircraft with Western models.

TAROM continued to expand its network, adding new destinations across Europe and beyond. However, the airline also faced challenges, including competition from low-cost carriers and economic fluctuations.

Looking Ahead: Restructuring and Revival

In recent years, TAROM has undertaken restructuring efforts to ensure its long-term viability.

The European Commission’s recent approval of a €95.3 million restructuring plan signifies a crucial step towards financial stability.

This plan focuses on streamlining operations, modernizing the fleet, and reducing costs. With a renewed focus on efficiency and a commitment to regional connectivity, TAROM aims to continue serving as Romania’s national carrier for years to come.

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A Tarom Boing 737 in flight.
Airline

airBaltic and Tarom extend codeshare agreement

by Len Varley
written by Len Varley

Latvian national carrier airBaltic and Romanian carrier Tarom have recently announced an extension to their codeshare agreement effective May 1, as airBaltic initiates their new Riga-Bucharest service.

The agreement will provide the passengers with new advantages, and to connect both companies’ networks in Bucharest and Riga, furtherincreasing flexibility for a seamless connection between the networks.

The details

Announced on March 30, Latvian airBaltic and Romanian Tarom have extended their codeshare agreement as a result of the new Riga – Bucharest service to be offered by airBaltic.

The newly extended agreement is set to take effect on May 1, which is when the route is set to be inaugurated.

Benefitting from this will be the customers, who will take advantage of the connection of extended networks via the partner hubs of Riga and Bucharest.

This will allow for for increased flexibility and seamless connectivity across the two partner airline’s networks.

Additionally, airBaltic customers will benefit from an increased frequency on flights to their desired destination within the region, while Tarom customers will have seamless connectivity to the Baltics and other airBaltic destinations.

airBaltic aircraft approaching to land.
Photo Credit: MarcelX42, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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Statements

On the new agreement, Martin Gauss, President & CEO of airBaltic said the following: “We are delighted to extend our fruitful codeshare partnership with Tarom, which will allow us to offer more travel options and flexibility to our customers.”

“By joining forces, we can better serve our passengers, offering them seamless connectivity and more choices when planning their travels.”

Tarom CEO, Costin Iordache, also commented, saying: “We are glad and honoured to extend this partnership with airBaltic, a much respected European airline that we share a lot of values with, in terms of high operational integrity and customer experience.”

“We selected routes that we believe our passengers will be very interested in, and have been able to put together an important number of destinations, which will cater for the increased offer of this year.”

Multiple route choices

airBaltic provides flights to more than 70 destinations from Riga, Tallinn, Vilnius and Tampere, but recently announced the biggest summer destination chart ever from all of these hubs.

Across the board, the new routes are as follows, and could be a possible connecting spot for Tarom passengers:

  • FROM RIGA
    • Istanbul – 4 flights weekly from April 2.
    • Hannover – 2 flights weekly from April 15.
    • Bucharest – 3 flights weekly from May 1.
    • Porto – 2 flights weekly from May 1.
    • Burgas – 2 flights weekly from May 2.
    • Bilbao – 2 flights weekly from May 4.
    • Tivat – 2 flights weekly from May 4.
    • Yerevan – 2 flights weekly from May 16.
    • Belgrade – 2 flights weekly from May 16.
    • Baku – 2 flights weekly from May 17.
  • FROM TALLINN
    • Split – 2 flights weekly from May 1.
    • Rhodes – 2 flights weekly from May 1.
    • Dubrovnik – 2 flights weekly from May 2.
    • Heraklion – 2 flights weekly from May 3.
  • FROM VILNIUS
    • Malaga – 2 flights weekly from May 2.
    • Palma de Mallorca – 2 flights weekly from May 2.
    • Nice – 2 flights weekly from May 3.
    • Heraklion – 2 flights weekly from May 4.
  • FROM TAMPERE
    • Nice – 2 flights weekly from May 2.
    • Milan – 2 flights weekly from May 4.
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A Ryanair 737-800 on the taxiway.
Incident

Ryanair Flight Returns to Bucharest With Airspeed Indicator Issue

by Len Varley
written by Len Varley

A Ryanair Boeing 737 operating from Bucharest, Romania to Paris, France made a return to the origin airport on 31 July 2024 due to a technical issue.

Ryanair flight FR9161, a Boeing 737-800 bound for Paris Beauvais airport (BVA) had departed from RWY 26R Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP).

Ryanair FR9161 Bucharest-Paris

During the departure after takeoff flight crew reported receiving inconsistent airspeed indications, according to the source Aviation Herald.

As a result, flight crew terminated the climb procedure and entered a holding pattern in the vicinity of the origin airport.

The decision was made to return to Bucharest, and fuel dumping was carried out to facilitate the early return. The flight landed without further incident just over one hour after the initial departure.

Flight Details

Flight data shows that Ryanair flight FR9161 had made a delayed departure out of Henri Coandă International Airport. Actual time of departure was logged as 2157 local time against the scheduled departure time of 2100 local.

Flight crew then terminated the climb procedure at flight level FL110 before entering a holding procedure. Following a brief period of holding below 10,000 feet to the east of the airport, the flight returned for a landing on RWY26L.
A Ryanair 737-800 on the taxiway.
Pedro Aragão, CC BY-SA 3.0 GFDL, via Wikimedia Commons

The aircraft conducting the FR9161 service to Paris Beauvais Airport was a Boeing 737-800, registered EI-ENC. This is a 13.9 year old narrowbody aircraft belonging to the carrier Ryanair.

It has been an operational service with the airline since its initial delivery from the factory in September 2010.

Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport is Romania’s busiest airport, serving as the primary gateway to the country.

Located in Otopeni, about 16 kilometers north of Bucharest city center, it’s a hub for several major airlines including TAROM, Wizz Air, and Ryanair.  

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interior of an airport terminal at sunset.
Analysis

Global Air Travel Grows Further in June

by Len Varley
written by Len Varley

The aviation industry continues to show robust recovery and growth, according to the latest air travel data released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for June 2024.

This report highlights significant increases in passenger demand across all regions, suggesting a promising picture for the future of air travel.

June 2024: Key Findings

The IATA report reveals several noteworthy trends:

  • Total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), saw a 9.1% increase compared to June 2023.
  • Available seat kilometers (ASK), which measures total capacity, grew by 8.5% year-on-year.
  • The global load factor reached an impressive 85.0%, marking a 0.5 percentage point increase from the previous year.

These figures highlight the industry’s strong performance as it enters the peak Northern summer travel season.
Passengers in an airport terminal at dusk
Photo Credit: Denner Trindade via Pexels

International vs. Domestic Travel

The report distinguishes between international and domestic travel patterns:

International Travel

  • Demand rose by 12.3% compared to June 2023
  • Capacity increased by 12.7% year-on-year
  • Load factor slightly decreased to 85.0% (-0.3 percentage points)

Domestic Travel

  • Demand increased by 4.3% compared to June 2023
  • Capacity grew by 2.1% year-on-year
  • Load factor improved to 85.0% (+1.7 percentage points)

These statistics indicate a stronger recovery in international travel, while domestic markets continue to show steady growth.

Passengers in an airport departures hall.
Photo Credit: Brett Sayles via Pexels

Air Travel: Regional Performance

The IATA report reveals that all regions demonstrated robust growth in international passenger markets, albeit at varying rates. Let’s delve deeper into each region’s performance:

Asia-Pacific: Leading the Recovery

Asia-Pacific airlines led the global recovery with an impressive 22.6% year-on-year increase in demand. This remarkable growth can be attributed to several factors:

  • Easing of travel restrictions: Many Asian countries have further relaxed their COVID-19 related travel policies.
  • Pent-up demand: After years of limited international travel, there’s a surge in both leisure and business trips.
  • Economic resilience: The region’s strong economic performance has bolstered consumer confidence and spending on travel.

Notably, the Africa-Asia route emerged as the fastest-expanding regional pair, growing by a staggering 38.1%. This highlights the increasing connectivity and economic ties between these two diverse regions.

Latin America: Impressive Rebound

Latin American carriers showed impressive growth with a 15.3% increase in demand. Key factors influencing this growth include:

  • Improved regional connectivity: Airlines have been expanding their route networks within Latin America.
  • Growing middle class: Increased disposable income in many Latin American countries is fueling travel demand.
  • Tourism initiatives: Many countries in the region have launched campaigns to attract international visitors.
Armin Forster via Pixabay

Africa: Significant Rise

African airlines experienced a significant 16.9% rise in demand, the second-highest growth rate among all regions. This growth is driven by:

  • Increased intra-African connectivity: The implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) is fostering more air links within the continent.
  • Rising foreign investment: Growing interest from international businesses is stimulating business travel.
  • Emerging tourism markets: Countries like Rwanda and Ethiopia are increasingly positioning themselves as tourist destinations.

Middle East: Steady Growth

Middle Eastern carriers saw a 9.6% increase in demand, reflecting steady growth in the region. Contributing factors include:

  • Hub strategy: Major airlines in the region continue to leverage their geographic position for long-haul connections.
  • Expo 2024 effect: The ongoing Expo 2024 in Saudi Arabia has attracted visitors from around the world.
  • Diversification efforts: Gulf countries’ push to diversify their economies is stimulating both business and leisure travel.

Europe: Solid Performance

European airlines reported a 9.1% growth in demand. This solid performance can be attributed to:

  • Summer travel season: The peak tourist season in Europe continues to drive strong demand.
  • Resilient intra-European market: Short-haul flights within Europe remain popular for both business and leisure.
  • Recovery of long-haul routes: Connections with other regions, particularly Asia, are showing strong growth.

North America: Steady Increase

North American carriers recorded a 6.6% increase in air travel demand. While this is the lowest growth rate among regions, it’s important to note:

  • Mature market: The North American market was quick to recover post-pandemic, so growth rates are now normalizing.
  • Domestic focus: A strong domestic market means international growth rates may be lower compared to other regions.
  • Capacity constraints: Some airports and airlines in the region are facing capacity issues, potentially limiting growth.
Photo Credit: Connecting Flights Guide via Pexels

Regional Load Factors

It’s worth noting the variations in load factors across regions:

  • North America maintained the highest load factor at 88.7% for air travel, despite a slight decrease of 1.6 percentage points from the previous year.
  • Europe followed closely with a load factor of 87.4%.
  • Africa saw the largest improvement in load factor, rising 7.4 percentage points to 77.0%.

These load factor variations reflect differing strategies in capacity management and demand patterns across regions.

The diverse growth rates and factors influencing each region’s performance underscore the complex and interconnected nature of the global aviation industry.

As the sector continues to recover and evolve, understanding these regional nuances will be crucial for stakeholders in making informed decisions and capitalizing on emerging opportunities.

An aircraft passenger cabin.
Photo Credit: Natã Romualdo via Pexels

Industry Challenges and Opportunities

Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, highlighted both the positive aspects and challenges of operating with such high load factors.

He emphasized the importance of stakeholder efficiency to minimize delays and ensure on-time arrivals.

Walsh also drew attention to the aviation industry’s crucial role in supporting global events like the Olympic Games in Paris.

He stated, “It is a great reminder of how aviation transforms our very big world into a global community.”

Conclusion

The strong performance across all regions for air travel in June suggests a positive outlook for the aviation industry. However, the sector must address several key areas to maintain this momentum.

Stakeholders must remain vigilant in addressing challenges related to capacity, efficiency, and sustainability to ensure long-term, sustainable growth in this dynamic global industry.

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A damaged Transair Boeing 737-300 at Dakar.
Incident

Transair 737 Takeoff Accident in Dakar Leaves 11 Injured

by Len Varley
written by Len Varley

A Transair Senegal Boeing 737-300 suffered substantial damage during takeoff accident at Dakar-Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS), Senegal on 9 May 2024.

Air Senegal flight HC301, operated by the Transair Boeing 737-300, was departing from RWY01 at the Dakar airport.

Transair HC301 Dakar (DSS)

During the takeoff roll flight crew initiated a rejected takeoff due to a hydraulic problem. As a result, the aircraft veered to the left and suffered a runway excursion.

The aircraft subsequently came to rest in soft ground approximately 6000 feet down the runway. During the event, a fire reportedly broke out in the region of the aircraft’s left wing.

The occupants of the Transair aircraft were disembarked via emergency slides. A number of those on board sustained injuries according to an airport statement.

“78 passengers were on board and 11 injuries were recorded, including 4 serious. 6 other minor injuries were admitted for observation to the airport medical services.”

Video Credit: @MadiambalD via Twitter/X

The runway exclusion incident led to the temporary closure of Blaise Diagne Airport. An investigation into the takeoff accident is now underway by national authorities.

Boeing 737-300 6V-AJE

The aircraft conducting the HC301 flight service to Bamako, Mali is a Boeing 737-300, registered 6V-AJE. This is a 29.6-year-old narrowbody aircraft belonging to the carrier Transair. It has been in service with the airline since November 2023.

The aircraft previously saw service with the airline TAROM since its original delivery in November 1994.

Transair Senegal is a regional airline based in Dakar, Senegal. Founded in 2010, the airline operates domestic flights within Senegal and also flies to destinations in neighboring countries including Guinea, Cabo Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Sierra Leone, and Gambia.

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Airline

Air Transport Awards: SkyTeam Named ‘Alliance of the Year’

by Len Varley
written by Len Varley

For a second year running, SkyTeam has been named ‘Alliance of the Year’ in this year’s Air Transport Awards.

Held in Athens on 17 March, the international annual awards recognize all the main categories of the air transport industry.

SkyTeam has now clinched the number one alliance ranking for the fourth time.

Initiatives Implemented Across the Year

Over the last 12 months, the global airline alliance has embarked on a new transformation strategy that charts a path towards its vision for SkyTeam 2027.

Digital Integration

SkyTeam drove the overall customer experience with a strong focus on digital innovation.

One notable initiative is the implementation of advanced digital technology to facilitate seamless check-in processes for multi-carrier itineraries.

Now, travelers can conveniently check in using their preferred airline’s app or website, streamlining the journey from start to finish.

Real-time Connectivity with FLIFO

In an era where connectivity is paramount, SkyTeam ensures travelers stay informed with FLIFO, a real-time flight information tool.

This digital solution provides up-to-the-minute updates on flight status, making it easier for passengers to navigate through various segments of their journey and seamlessly connect to their next destination.

Ensuring Compliance with Carry-on Calculator

Navigating hand baggage rules across different airlines can be challenging. SkyTeam simplifies this process with the Carry-on Calculator, a user-friendly digital tool.

Travelers can now effortlessly verify if their bags comply with hand baggage regulations for each airline in their itinerary, eliminating last-minute surprises at the airport.

Championing Sustainability

SkyTeam takes its responsibility towards the environment seriously. The Sustainable Flight Challenge was a groundbreaking initiative that united global airlines in a shared mission to mitigate the environmental impact of air travel.

By fostering collaboration and innovation, SkyTeam placed itself at the forefront of driving positive change within the industry.

Empowering Female Leadership with RISE

Gender equality is another area where SkyTeam is making strides. Through the RISE leadership program, the alliance is closing the aviation gender gap by empowering talented female leaders across its network.

By providing mentorship and opportunities for career advancement, SkyTeam is fostering a more inclusive and diverse workforce.

Recognition & Future Outlook

Dr. Kostas Iatrou, President of the Air Transport Awards, praised SkyTeam’s innovative approach. He acknowledged the commitment to delivering an integrated customer experience.

“The judges were impressed by SkyTeam’s commitment to delivering a more integrated customer experience through digital technology that makes travel more seamless.”

“Initiatives such as The Sustainable Flight Challenge, which is uniting airlines in finding new ways reduce air travel’s environmental impact,” he said

In response, Patrick Roux, CEO of SkyTeam, expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed the alliance’s commitment to continued growth and innovation.

Photo credit: KLM

About SkyTeam

SkyTeam, a global airline alliance, is actively transforming the future of travel. It seeks to deliver the most responsible and integrated customer journey.

The alliance has implemented industry-first initiatives such as The Sustainable Flight Challenge with a focus on innovation. SkyTeam and its members work together to connect customers across an extensive global network of 1,060+ destinations.

The alliance offers 750+ airport lounges, award-winning SkyPriority airport services and makes travel more rewarding through its members’ loyalty programs.

SkyTeam members are Aeroflot (suspended), Aerolíneas Argentinas, Aeromexico, Air Europa, Air France, China Airlines, China Eastern, Czech Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Garuda Indonesia, ITA Airways, Kenya Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Korean Air, Middle East Airlines, Saudia, TAROM, Vietnam Airlines, Virgin Atlantic and XiamenAir.

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American Airlines & Delta Cancel All Tel Aviv Services
Airline

Two Major US Airlines Cancel All Tel Aviv Services

by James Field
written by James Field

It has been revealed that American Airlines & Delta have cancelled all services to Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport until further notice due to significant security concerns.

American Airlines & Delta Cancel All Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Services
Source: American Airlines’ website.
American Airlines & Delta Cancel All Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Services
Source: Delta Air Lines’ website.

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Information supplied by @OSINTdefender, followed by flight statuses from the American Airlines & Delta websites, has confirmed this, with services from New York JFK to Israel’s Delta Ben Gurion airport used as an example.

It is understood such cancellations extend to all flights. Passengers in the area are advised to check directly with their airline operator or Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv.

American Airlines & Delta: United Follows Suit…

Alan Wilson from Peterborough, Cambs, UK, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

United Airlines followed the same suit that American & Delta have today, but this emerged more clearly yesterday.

United Flight to Tel Aviv Turns Back to San Francisco: Israel War

At the time of writing (7/10/23 @ 1620 UK time), the aircraft is still in the air and is getting closer to the West Coast-based airport.

Numerous airlines have canceled services in Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport following the current tensions and fighting going on in Israel.

It is expected that more airlines will follow suit in the coming days, but airlines such as Turkish Airlines, El Al, TAROM, and others have been providing additional flights to evacuate Israeli citizens from the region.

Attempts have also been made by Hamas to attack Ben Gurion Airport, although operations continue to operate at the time of writing (08/10/23 @ 2256 UK time).

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Airline

interCaribbean Airways expands fleet with acquisition of 7 ATR-42s

by Len Varley
written by Len Varley

interCaribbean Airways, the largest privately-owned airline in the Caribbean, recently announced the successful acquisition of seven additional ATR-42 aircraft.

Acquisition from Romania’s TAROM

These regional aircraft, with a seating capacity of 48, were purchased from TAROM, S.A., a well-established Romanian flag network airline.

This strategic move demonstrates interCaribbean Airways’ commitment to enhancing its operational capabilities and expanding its presence in the Caribbean region.

The Chairman and founder of interCaribbean Airways, Lyndon Gardiner, expressed his satisfaction in fulfilling promises made to the governments and people of the Caribbean.

With the introduction of these new aircraft, the airline aims to increase its capacity and operational flexibility significantly.

The primary objective is to address the demand for air travel in under-served markets, particularly in the eastern Caribbean.

Following the completion of the transaction, interCaribbean Airways plans to swiftly incorporate the newly acquired ATR-42s into its fleet, just in time for the peak summer season when regional travelers take to the skies.

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This expansion initiative is a response to the growing demand for the airline’s services since its entry into the eastern Caribbean market during the pandemic.

With the acquisition of these seven ATR-42s, interCaribbean Airways is now seven steps closer to realizing its goal of increased capacity and enhanced connectivity within the region.

Chairman Gardiner expressed his gratitude to TAROM for their collaborative approach throughout the transaction. He acknowledged TAROM’s exemplary sustainable aviation practices, quality assurance in the airline industry, and prompt delivery of the aircraft.

The strong partnership established between interCaribbean Airways and TAROM will prove instrumental in achieving the former’s growth objectives.

Fleet changes and retirements

With the addition of the ATR-42s from TAROM, interCaribbean Airways now operates a total of 10 ATR aircraft. The company plans to retire its Embraer 120 aircraft by the end of 2023, replacing them with these newer and larger airplanes to cater to the growing regional demand.

The company’s recent expansion of schedules and routes from its Barbados hub has already yielded significant results, with an impressive 83 percent increase in the number of flights and a remarkable 109 percent increase in seating capacity across its routes in the first quarter.

interCaribbean Airways has distinguished itself in the market by focusing on the resilient niche demand for intra-regional travel. As a result, it has become the go-to airline for governments, tourism interests, airports, and passengers seeking improved regional air services.

 The airline’s commitment to meeting the unique needs of the Caribbean region has garnered praise and support from various stakeholders.

About interCaribbean Airways

Headquartered in the Turks and Caicos Islands, interCaribbean Airways is a privately-owned and operated airline. It operates a fleet comprising 50-seat Embraer ERJ145 Regional Jets, 48-seat ATR42s, 30-seat EMB120s, and 19-seat Twin Otters.

This includes carrier boasts an extensive network spanning 28 cities across 17 countries in the Caribbean.

This includes Georgetown, Guyana in the south, Barbados in the east, Havana, Cuba in the west, and Nassau, Bahamas in the north, and interCaribbean Airways serves as a vital link connecting the region.

interCaribbean Airways’ recent acquisition of seven additional ATR-42s marks a significant milestone for the airline.

The expansion of its fleet will enable the company to meet the increasing demand for air travel within the Caribbean region. With a strong focus on providing intra-regional air services

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Interior view of Budapest Airport
Airport

Budapest Airport enjoys increased growth

by Len Varley
written by Len Varley

Budapest Airport is often touted as the gateway to Central and Eastern Europe. The airport is now enjoying extra connectivity to Romania and Northern Ireland.

Romania 

Budapest Airport (BUD) has recently seen an increase in growth and expansion to destinations in Romania. This includes the arrival of AirConnect which links the Hungarian capital to the Romanian city of Cluj-Napoca and the capital of Bucharest.

This signals that demand between the two cities is growing even further. The airline plans to operate the route twice weekly, which makes travel between the two countries even more seamless.

AirConnect has chosen Budapest as one of the first destinations outside of Romania. The airline will opt for the ATR72-600 for such services. 

Photo Credit: Budapest Airport

Competition remains 

Despite the popularity of the route, the Romanian airline faces stiff competition on the routes, from airlines such as Wizz Air and Tarom. Budapest now witnesses 13 weekly flights to the Romanian capital. The city also sees five weekly flights to Cluj-Napica.

This translates to an increase in 12% share of the Hungarian connection to Romania, and with the introduction of AirConnect’s operation, Budapest now stands stronger as a gateway to secondary Romanian cities.

AirConnect now complements existing routes to Bucharest, Cluj, and Târgu Mureș, with Budapest, which sees 70,000 one-way seats this upcoming summer season. 

CEO of Budapest Airport Chris Dinsdale,  stated with optimism: “It’s always a great pleasure to welcome a new airline to our airport and this is deepened when you are among the carrier’s first chosen airports on its route map.”

“We’re looking forward to working with AirConnect to promote both Romania and Hungary as superb destinations and ensuring growth with our latest partner.”

Tudor Constantinescu, CEO, AirConnect, commented at the inaugural celebration: “We are excited to launch the direct service between Budapest – Bucharest and Budapest – Cluj Napoca.”

“Offering an affordable and efficient travel option that makes it easier to reach the capital of Romania and the heart of Transylvania; we hope our twice-weekly flights, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, will bring more people and more cultures together.”

Northern Ireland 

As well as the Romanian market expansion, the Hungarian airport also confirmed that Belfast in Northern Ireland is underserved, and will be added to Budapest’s network for the upcoming summer season.

Ryanair commenced the twice-weekly service on 27 March, to Belfast, Northern Ireland for the very first time. 

Airline Development Director, Budapest Airport Balázs Bogáts,  comments: “It’s fantastic that Ryanair is filling another of our white spots this year.”

“The carrier’s latest addition of a link to Belfast joins its established services to Dublin and Shannon, seeing us offer 341 flights to Ireland this summer.”

“Building on its overall operations will see Ryanair offer close to 7,400 flights throughout S23 from Budapest.”

Budapest is becoming busier than ever as it approaches the summer season. With Budapest being a beautiful and historical city, tourism-driven demand will see low-cost airlines flying to the Hungarian capital during the peak holiday season

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