A Boeing 737-800 NG (Next Generation), one of the two passenger planes acquired this month by Romanian national airline TAROM, officially entered company’s fleet with a lavish landing at Henri Coanda International Airport in Bucharest on Wednesday (May 24, 2017). Baptized “Sarmizegetusa,” the plane made an airfield flyover escorted by two RoAF F-16 military aircraft, while a broad array of politicians, diplomats and other senior officials were waiting on the ground.

The plane, which is leased for a 10 year period, is brand new, has 189 seats, a range of about 6,000 kilometers and bears the registration number YR-BGJ. The second plane is set to enter service in the coming weeks. As for the price Tarom has to pay for the jets, the authorities say “is confidential, but at the market level”. Unofficially, however, institutional sources speak of about 350,000 euros per month for each aircraft.

Tarom agreed a deal with Air Lease Corporation for the operating lease of two 737NG, taking advantage of the fact that the two aircraft had originally been ordered by Pegasus Airlines, an order that was canceled in the meantime. This is why the two aircraft have got into possession of Tarom in record time.

According to Boeing website, “the Next Generation 737 delivers the superior reliability, fuel efficiency and high-value returns operators require in today’s competitive market. Its exceptional versatility and lower maintenance and operating costs provide a competitive edge regardless of business model or market. A competitive edge that enables profitable growth. All this plus the newest passenger cabin design in its class to ensure a flying experience that exceeds expectations.”

TAROM’s fleet now numbers 21 aircraft, of which only 19 operate simultaneously due to maintenance operations. The acquisition of the 737NGs aims at replacing the two Airbus A310s whose withdrawal from service last year forced Tarom to stop operating several routes.

Warm welcome to Otopeni for Tarom Boeing 737-800 NG
“Sarmizegetusa” touched down at Otopeni after flying over the airport flanked by two F-16 of the Romanian Air Force RoAF.

A whole range of local political figures including Prime Minister Sorin Grindeanu, PSD leader Liviu Dragnea, Transport Minister Razvan Cuc, Interior Minister Carmen Dan, Tarom Director Eugen Davidoiu, were waiting on the tarmac for the “festive” moment.

Video: TAROM Boeing 737-800NG “Sarmizegetusa” arrives in Romania

The post VIDEO: TAROM’s new Boeing 737-800 NG “Sarmizegetusa” lands at Otopeni Airport escorted by F-16 fighter jets appeared first on Foxcrawl.