Romanian flag carrier TAROM has taken delivery of its first Boeing 737 MAX 8, marking the introduction of the type to its fleet and a major step in the airline’s ongoing restructuring and fleet renewal programme.
The aircraft arrived in Bucharest on September 12 and is the first of four Boeing 737 MAX aircraft scheduled to join TAROM through 2027.
A second aircraft is expected to arrive by the end of September, while the remaining two are scheduled for delivery in 2027.
The four aircraft are being acquired through operating and financial leasing arrangements, with two supplied through CDB Aviation.
The delivery also marks the arrival of the first new Boeing aircraft in TAROM’s fleet as the airline works to modernise its operations and improve efficiency.
TAROM to deploy 737 MAX on European routes
TAROM plans to use its new Boeing 737-8 on services to major European capitals.
Fleet renewal is one of the central components of the airline’s restructuring programme, alongside route optimisation, improved operational efficiency and changes aimed at strengthening the passenger experience.
“The entry of the first Boeing 737 MAX into TAROM’s fleet is an essential moment in the company’s transformation process,” said Cristian Anghel, CEO of TAROM.
“Fleet renewal and increased operating capacity are essential components of our restructuring plan.”
The new aircraft is powered by CFM International LEAP-1B engines and features Boeing’s latest-generation winglets.
According to Boeing, the 737-8 can reduce fuel consumption and emissions by approximately 20% compared with the previous-generation aircraft it is designed to replace, while its noise footprint is around 50% smaller.
More than 200 Boeing 737-8 aircraft are currently operated by European carriers.
New aircraft named after Mircea Lucescu
TAROM’s first 737 MAX has been named after Mircea Lucescu, one of Romania’s best-known football managers.
Members of the Lucescu family attended the aircraft’s arrival in Bucharest alongside representatives from TAROM, Boeing and aircraft lessor CDB Aviation.
TAROM said the name was chosen to reflect values including ambition, discipline and confidence as the airline enters a new phase of its restructuring.
Boeing Sky Interior introduced to TAROM passengers
Passengers travelling aboard TAROM’s 737 MAX aircraft will also see a newer cabin environment compared with the carrier’s existing Boeing fleet.
The aircraft features Boeing Sky Interior, including larger overhead baggage bins, LED cabin lighting, redesigned sidewalls and larger windows.
CDB Aviation described the delivery as part of TAROM’s wider fleet modernisation strategy.
“We are delighted to support TAROM as it takes delivery of its first 737-8 and continues its fleet modernisation strategy,” said Gavan Daly, Chief Commercial Officer for EMEA at CDB Aviation.
With another 737 MAX expected before the end of September and two more scheduled for 2027, TAROM is beginning one of the most visible stages of its fleet renewal programme as it restructures the Romanian flag carrier around a more modern and efficient fleet.
