TAROM took delivery of its first Boeing 737-8 in Bucharest on September 12, 2026, marking the arrival of the first 737 MAX in Romania. The aircraft is the first of two 737-8s leased from CDB Aviation to renew the national carrier’s single-aisle fleet, which currently includes four 737 Next-Generation jets.
Boeing, TAROM and CDB Aviation jointly marked the delivery as part of the airline’s fleet modernization and long-term growth strategy. TAROM CEO Cristian Anghel described fleet renewal and efficient operational capacity as essential elements of the carrier’s restructuring plan and said the new aircraft would support operational efficiency and a younger fleet.
The aircraft bears the name of Mircea Lucescu, which Anghel said gives the delivery a symbolic dimension associated with performance, discipline and trust. TAROM plans to operate its growing 737 MAX fleet on routes connecting Bucharest with major European capitals.
Boeing said the 737 MAX reduces fuel use and carbon emissions by 20% compared with the aircraft it replaces, while providing operational consistency and increased efficiency. CDB Aviation’s Head of Commercial for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Gavan Daly, said the delivery supports TAROM’s fleet modernization and reflects the lessor’s partnership with Boeing.
Boeing’s 2026 Commercial Market Outlook projects that Eurasian airlines will expand their in-service fleet from about 6,800 aircraft to nearly 11,000 by 2045 to meet travel demand. The manufacturer expects single-aisle aircraft such as the 737 MAX to represent nearly 81% of new aircraft delivered to the region for fleet growth and renewal.
Founded in 1954, TAROM operates under Romania’s Ministry of Transportation. The national carrier has a fleet of 10 aircraft and serves more than 50 destinations using its own aircraft or code-share partners. It has belonged to the International Air Transport Association since 1993 and the SkyTeam Alliance since June 25, 2010.