Romanian National Carrier Becomes New Airbus A318 Customer

The Romanian national carrier TAROM has signed a firm contract for the purchase of four A318 aircraft, further strengthening Airbus’ presence in Central and Eastern Europe.

This contract also renews the partnership between Tarom and Airbus which began in 1992, when the A310 became the first wide-body to be operated by the Bucharest-based airline. Now, nearly 12 years on, Tarom has opted for the newest and smallest member of the Airbus’ single-aisle family to help it increase passenger capacity in the 100 seater category.

With deliveries scheduled between end 2006 and end 2007, the airline, which operates domestic and international flights via Bucharest, plans to use its A318 aircraft specifically on medium haul routes in Europe. TAROM will select the engines type to equip its A318 aircraft at a later stage.

On the occasion of the signing, President and CEO of Tarom, Mrs Rodica Odobescu said that “we are pleased to announce that, by acquiring the four Airbus aircraft, Tarom continues to operate one of the youngest fleets in Europe. These aircraft will be integrated into our network strategy, offering our passengers comfort, quality and increased safety of our service. By developing our fleet, taking into account the upcoming airline regulations in the Easter European area, Tarom will be better prepared to challenge the increasing competition. We would also like to mention that during the last three years Tarom has made significant economic improvements, even exceeding the results targeted by our Business Plan approved by the Romanian Government. For the next period, we are confident that Tarom will manage to become one of the most competitive airlines in the region by joining an international alliance.”

“We are delighted to be strengthening our relationship with Tarom and supporting it in its passenger growth strategy” said Noel Forgeard, Airbus President and Chief Executive Officer. “The A318 is the most efficient and comfortable aircraft in its category and we believe both Tarom passengers and crew will enjoy these new planes. This order again endorses the popularity of the A320 family, which has become the fastest selling aircraft family of all time.

He added, “Simultaneously we are proud to announce that EADS, in collaboration with Airbus, in the framework of a large exchange programme between the most prestigious French educational institutions and Romanian universities, will offer two scholarships of two years each to selected Romanian students. This will without doubt contribute to an increased exchange and understanding between Romanian students and the European aviation industry.”

http://www.airbus.com/dynamic/media/press_releases.asp#1483