The airline AnimaWings, founded by brothers Marius and Cristian Pandel, has attracted three institutional investors into its shareholding, who have acquired a 50% stake. The transaction, completed through the signing of a strategic agreement with BT Asset Management SAI, Winners Holding Investments, and Evergent Investments, represents a first for the Romanian aviation market, marking the first entry of institutional investors into the ownership structure of a local airline.
Following this agreement, the Pandel brothers, owners of the Christian Tour group, retain the remaining 50% of the shares and will continue to lead the airline. The three partner firms are closely linked to the Ciorcilă family, the founders of Banca Transilvania. According to the company, the strategic partnership will provide financial expertise, access to business networks, and support for accelerating development plans.
AnimaWings was established in 2020 as a charter flight operator, relying on the volume of tourists provided by Christian Tour. In its early days, the company attracted Greek operator Aegean Airlines as a shareholder, which held the majority stake until 2024, when it sold all its shares to the Pandel family. Since 2025, the company has also entered the scheduled flights segment, currently operating a fleet of seven aircraft under operational lease, with an eighth planned to be added. For this year’s summer season, the operator announced the operation of 50 scheduled and charter routes, connecting Bucharest and other cities in the country with destinations in Romania and Europe. This capital infusion takes place in a market context marked by the bankruptcy of Blue Air and the lack of profitability of the state-owned company Tarom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who acquired the 50% stake in AnimaWings?
Three institutional investors—BT Asset Management SAI, Winners Holding Investments, and Evergent Investments—acquired the 50% stake.
Who will continue to manage AnimaWings?
The Pandel brothers, founders of Christian Tour, retain 50% of the shares and will continue to lead the airline.
What is AnimaWings’ current fleet and route plan?
AnimaWings operates seven leased aircraft, with an eighth planned, and will run 50 scheduled and charter routes for the summer season.