A new Romanian airline has emerged: AirConnect
The company was founded by five investors with experience in key areas directly related to airline activities: ground handling, tour operators, and maintenance. Dorin Ivașcu holds the position of Chairman of the Board of Directors. The management board also includes Alexandru Mărginean (owner and managing partner of the tour operator Karpaten), Florin Necula (owner and managing partner of Ras Technic), Cosmin Pop (owner and managing partner of a real estate holding), and Tudor Constantinescu, who previously worked as commercial director at Blue Air and Animawings.
AirConnect has a capital of 1 million euros, with an investment of 4 million euros, funds used to purchase aircraft and invest in IT and management systems, plus other expenses for cabin crew training.
The entire AirConnect fleet will consist of ATR 72 – 600 aircraft. According to company representatives, this is a suitable aircraft for covering domestic and short-haul international destinations.
“I believe the rationale for the project has to do with the situation in Romania itself. It is hard to believe, but today, traveling from Oradea to Constanța takes over 12 hours by land transport, and this route is just one example. In the current context, naturally respecting the legal requirements in force, commercial flights can be operated and passengers can travel without problems. We believe that situations similar to the summer of 2020 will not be encountered again anytime soon, and this makes us look toward the future with confidence,” said Tudor Constantinescu, CEO of AirConnect.
In this field, the company will face competition from an airline established by the Bihor County Council and Oradea City Hall. AirOradea is expected to be operational starting in the spring of 2022.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of aircraft does AirConnect use?
AirConnect operates a fleet exclusively composed of ATR 72-600 aircraft, which are ideal for domestic and short-haul international flights.
Who are the founders of AirConnect?
The airline was founded by five experienced investors from the aviation and tourism sectors, including Dorin Ivașcu and Tudor Constantinescu.
What is the main objective of the new airline?
AirConnect aims to improve regional connectivity in Romania, offering faster alternatives to the long travel times currently required by land transport between major cities.