The Romanian national carrier, TAROM, is set to sell its last active Airbus A318 narrow-body aircraft as part of its ongoing restructuring process, marking a significant transition for the airline.
The government-owned airline plans to retire its sole remaining 18-year-old aircraft, registered as YR-ASA, which currently operates primarily on routes between Bucharest (OTP) and London (LHR), as well as Istanbul (IST), by the end of October 2024. This move reflects TAROM’s strategy to streamline operations and modernize its fleet.
Originally introduced to the TAROM fleet in 2006, YR-ASA (MSN 2931) was one of four A318 aircraft acquired by the airline, alongside YR-ASB, YR-ASC, and YR-ASD. According to a report from Aeroroutes, TAROM has already secured a buyer for the YR-ASA, which is set to be sold to 3Top Aviation Services Limited. This UK-based company specializes in end-of-life aircraft acquisitions and has previously confirmed the purchase of two other aircraft from TAROM’s A318 fleet: YR-ASB and YR-ASC.
The decision to retire the A318 fleet was part of the compensatory measures associated with the €95.3 million in state aid received by the carrier. Amid its restructuring efforts, TAROM is committed to reducing its fleet from the previous total of 18 aircraft to 14. The airline now will continue to operate its remaining four Boeing 737-700s, four Boeing 737-800s, two ATR 72-500s, and four ATR 72-600s. However, the older Next Generation models are set to be replaced by leased Boeing 737-8 aircraft, which are expected to join the fleet in 2025.
TAROM was one of the few Europe-based carriers that operated the A318. Once the sale is finalized, Air France will emerge as the sole operator of this aircraft type in Europe. As noted in the Planespotters.com registry, the French flag carrier continues to operate six A318-100s, which are recognized as the smallest and least common variant within the A320 family.