TAROM, the Romanian national carrier, has taken delivery of its first Boeing 737-8, making it the first Romanian airline to operate the 737 MAX. The aircraft, leased from CDB Aviation, marks an important step in TAROM’s fleet modernisation and long-term development strategy.
The newly delivered aircraft is the first of two 737-8s that CDB Aviation will provide to TAROM as the airline renews its single-aisle fleet. TAROM currently operates four Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft, and its entire fleet of ten aircraft serves more than 50 destinations, either directly or through code-share agreements.
“The addition of the first Boeing 737 MAX aircraft to the TAROM fleet is a pivotal moment in the company’s transformation process,” said Cristian Anghel, TAROM CEO. “Fleet renewal and efficient operational capacity are essential components of our restructuring plan, enabling us to achieve operational efficiency. By integrating this model into our fleet, TAROM offers its passengers a superior travel experience. This aircraft’s advanced technology and low environmental footprint align perfectly with our vision for sustainable operations and our commitment to maintaining a young, state-of-the-art fleet that connects Romania to the world.”
The 737-8 offers improved operational efficiency, with fuel consumption and carbon emissions approximately 20% lower than those of the aircraft it replaces. TAROM plans to deploy its growing 737 MAX fleet on routes linking Bucharest with major European capitals.
The first aircraft also carries the name of Mircea Lucescu, the Romanian football manager and former player, giving the delivery an additional symbolic dimension.
“The fact that the aircraft bears the name of Mircea Lucescu also adds a symbolic dimension. We are talking about performance, discipline, and trust – values that also define this new chapter for TAROM,” Anghel added.
“We are delighted to support TAROM as it takes delivery of its first 737-8 and continues its fleet modernization strategy,” said Gavan Daly, CDB Aviation’s Head of Commercial, EMEA. “This delivery underscores our long-standing partnership with Boeing and our commitment to providing TAROM with efficient, state-of-the-art aircraft that enhance operational performance and offer a better experience for passengers.”
The delivery marks both the introduction of the Boeing 737 MAX to Romania and another step in TAROM’s ongoing fleet renewal programme.
“We are honored to see TAROM welcome the 737 MAX into service. This milestone reflects the trust the airline has in the 737 family and in our partnership as it charts its next chapter,” said Mario Antonio Ebcim, Boeing sales director for Eurasia and India. “We are continuing to deliver on our promise of safety, reliability and comfort to the more than 1 million passengers who fly on our airplanes every day.”
Cover photo: TAROM first 737-8 (LN 9799) Customer Flight – 30 August 2026. Photos and all quotations © Boeing. Information from the Boeing company press releases were used.
