•⁠ It is the only aircraft of its kind in Romania
• A220 planes emit 25% fewer CO2 emissions and use 25% less fuel compared to previous generation aircraft
•⁠ ⁠The special AnimaWings configuration provides 12 business class seats

Bucharest, December 16, 2024 - The first of six aircraft contracted by the Romanian company AnimaWings in the first phase of its fleet development until 2026, has landed to Bucharest. With the most spacious economy class seats among the single-aisle aircraft, the Airbus A220 is the only aircraft purpose-built for the 100-150 seat segment. This latest-generation aircraft produces 50% less noise, emits 25% fewer CO2 emissions and burns 25% less fuel than an older generation aircraft. The A220 is already capable of running on up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

Marius Pandel, AnimaWings shareholder, says: "We are delighted to be the first company in Romania to have in its fleet such a modern and spacious aircraft, perfectly suited to our vision as a smart cost company. We plan to be the air operator that connects all major cities of the country and these cities with the most important destinations in Europe and the world, and these aircraft, whose specific configurations were designed for AnimaWings, will ensure the full comfort of our passengers, being a symbol of the respect for the traveler that distinguishes us.”

Benoît Schultz, CEO, Airbus Canada, says: “This first A220 delivery to AnimaWings brings about another milestone for the A220 as the Romania-based airline will become the tenth A220 operator in Europe, showcasing the Programme’s continued expansion. Thanks to the A220 innovative cabin features, the AnimaWings’ passengers will enjoy a superior flying experience. Moreover, as a latest-generation aircraft, the A220 brings 25% lower CO2 emissions per seat compared to previous generation aircraft. We thank both Azorra and AnimaWings for their trust.”

To start with, the new aircraft will serve international routes such as Paris, Stockholm, Larnaca, Dubai, Marrakesh, Nice, Ibiza and domestic routes such as Cluj, Iași, Oradea. These will be joined by charter flights organized for local tour operators to tourist destinations in Greece, Turkey, Spain or Portugal during the summer of 2025.

The first AnimaWings flight operated with the new Airbus A220 aircraft entering the fleet will be a Bucharest - Dubai flight, scheduled for December 27.

The second A220 will be delivered by the end of 2024, and in the first quarter of 2025 AnimaWings also expects two A320 aircraft, with up to 180 seats.

Marius Pandel added: "These acquisitions will place us, in the medium term, as the most important player with 100% Romanian capital on the domestic aviation market. The investment is being carried out through the commercial aircraft lessor Azorra, which, through its long-standing relationship with Airbus, ensures the delivery of a sizable fleet of state-of-the-art aircraft. We are grateful to our partners at Azorra and Airbus who are thus facilitating flights at the highest standards for Romanian travelers."

John Evans, CEO of Azorra, says: "We are proud to deliver the first new Airbus A220-300 to our friends at AnimaWings, made possible through our strong relationship with Airbus. This marks a significant milestone as the first of its type in Romania. With its unmatched performance and efficiency, this aircraft is perfectly suited to support AnimaWings growth objectives and will play a vital role in the future of aviation in Romania."

The Airbus A220-300 is a highly reliable, trend-setting aircraft, suitable for both the business segment and passengers flying to leisure destinations. The unique configuration, beyond the conventional design, with generous seating, spacious aisles and bright windows that provide a radiant ambience on board - fully embodies AnimaWings' commitment to excellence in aviation. The specially configured AnimaWings’ A220 has 137 seats, including 12 fold-flat business seats, with a seat pitch far superior to other models in the same category on the market and five abreast seat configuration in economy.

Passengers who choose business class enjoy priority boarding and disembarkation, giving them a stress-free experience from the start of their journey. In addition, they benefit from included catering, with a choice of delicious meals and drinks. On board, a dedicated cabin crew will provide them with personalized service and the generous seating with extra legroom and privacy will make the flight a relaxing and comfortable experience.

In terms of in-flight services, AnimaWings is preparing hot catering and fine dining options, with menus inspired by the new Romanian cuisine, which passengers will be able to order before their trip. The airline will also have a wide range of buy-on-board options, both food and other unique products.