Wizz Air chief executive József Váradi has offered to discuss taking over TAROM’s domestic network in Romania, proposing a long-term arrangement that could replace the state carrier on internal routes. The idea would leave Wizz Air operating domestic services under contract with the Romanian government, but no process is under way and TAROM has rejected the suggestion as unrealistic and offensive.
Váradi argued that TAROM is not economically viable and that Romania still needs dependable internal air links, particularly where rail and road options remain limited. The proposal comes as Wizz Air continues to expand its Romanian presence and remains one of the country’s largest airlines, with a broad domestic and international network from multiple local bases.
TAROM’s response sharpened the issue into a live policy debate, with the flag carrier criticising Wizz Air’s past cancellations in Romania and defending its own role in domestic connectivity. The exchange has also highlighted wider pressure on state-owned airlines across Europe, where low-cost carriers are increasingly willing to step into markets once protected by national incumbents.