Business Aviation Flight Operations In Romania

In 2017, approximately 10 million passengers departed from Romania’s airports, with air connectivity growing by 76% compared to 2013. By 2019, Romania’s airports handled around 20.2 million terminal passengers, highlighting the significant increase in passenger traffic. The aviation sector in Romania supports around 107,000 jobs and contributes EUR 2.3 billion to the economy, showcasing its vital role in the country’s economic landscape. Romania is the 23rd largest aviation market in Europe, according to the IATA Connectivity Index, reflecting improvements in air transport regulatory competitiveness, including passenger and cargo facilitation, supply chain management, infrastructure, and smarter regulations.

Romania’s international airports are vital for the country’s connectivity and economic growth. They comply with international standards set by ICAO and EASA, ensuring safety and efficiency. Investments in infrastructure and modernization have enhanced passenger experiences and operational capabilities:

• Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport (IATA: OTP, ICAO: LROP)
• Cluj Avram Iancu International Airport (IATA: CLJ, ICAO: LRCL)
• Timișoara Traian Vuia International Airport (IATA: TSR, ICAO: LRTR)
• Iași International Airport (IATA: IAS, ICAO: LRIA)
• Sibiu International Airport (IATA: SBZ, ICAO: LRSB)

These airports are essential for Romania’s connectivity and play a significant role in both passenger and cargo transport.

Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport (IATA: OTP, ICAO: LROP) Flight Operations

Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport (IATA: OTP, ICAO: LROP) is a major aviation hub with extensive facilities and capabilities. The airport features two parallel runways, 08R/26L and 08L/26R, each measuring 3,500 meters (11,484 feet) in length. These runways are equipped with precision approach capabilities, with CAT III for 08R and 08L, and CAT II for 26L and 26R. CAT (Category) refers to the instrument landing system (ILS) capabilities, with CAT III allowing aircraft to land in very low visibility conditions (down to a runway visual range of 75 meters) and CAT II enabling landings in moderately low visibility.

The airport accommodates various aircraft through its 65 commercial aviation parking stands and 5 general aviation stands. It has hangar access for a wide range of aircraft, including large commercial jets, governed by the airport’s operational guidelines and hangar specifications.

With an annual passenger capacity of approximately 6 million and a peak hour capacity of 2,300 passengers, Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport efficiently handles significant passenger volumes. It operates two terminals, offering 104 check-in counters and 38 boarding gates, of which 14 are equipped with air bridges and 24 are remote gates. For business and first-class passengers, the airport has multiple lounges with amenities such as comfortable seating, refreshments, and workspaces, ensuring a pleasant travel experience.

Cluj Avram Iancu International Airport (IATA: CLJ, ICAO: LRCL) Flight Operations

Cluj Avram Iancu International Airport (IATA: CLJ, ICAO: LRCL) is a significant airport with essential facilities for both domestic and international travel. The airport features a single runway, 07/25, which is 2,100 meters (6,693 feet) in length, suitable for various aircraft operations.

The airport can accommodate a range of aircraft categories, including narrow-body and some wide-body aircraft. Hangar access is typically available for aircraft up to Category C, which includes models such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737.

With an annual passenger capacity of approximately 3.24 million passengers as of 2023, Cluj Avram Iancu International Airport effectively manages substantial passenger traffic. The airport has one main terminal that has both domestic and international flights. The Departure Passenger Terminal features gates B1 to B6 for Schengen flights and gates A1 to A4 for Non-Schengen flights. There are separate areas within the Passenger Arrival Terminal for domestic and international arrivals, ensuring smooth processing of passengers.

For business travelers, the airport features business lounges equipped with amenities such as comfortable seating, refreshments, and Wi-Fi access, offering a convenient and pleasant environment.

Romanias’ International Airport Ground Handling Operations

Romania’s top airports are equipped with essential ground handling facilities and services to support various aircraft operations and passenger needs:

Just Aviation team at OTP arranges full maintenance services for a wide range of aircraft types, ensuring they are kept in optimal condition. They also provide facilities for business jet upgrades, allowing for modifications and enhancements. The team supplies both Jet A-1 and Avgas fuel types. With multiple hangars available, they can accommodate different aircraft sizes and offer extensive parking slots suitable for both short-term and long-term parking needs.

At CLJ, Just Aviation team ensures basic maintenance services to keep aircraft operational. While facilities for business jet upgrades are limited, they ensure the availability of Jet A-1 fuel. Our team provides hangar access for aircraft up to Category C, including models like the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737, and ensures adequate parking slots to accommodate various aircraft.

Guide to Slot Coordination for International Flight Operators in Romania

Navigating slot coordination and flight operations in Romania demands meticulous adherence to specific requirements, crucial for both scheduled and non-scheduled business jet operators. Scheduled operations necessitate strict compliance with published schedules, mandating coordination with the Romanian Civil Aeronautical Authority (RCAA) for slot allocation. This ensures orderly and efficient airport utilization. In contrast, non-scheduled operations operate flexibly on an on-demand basis, necessitating timely notification and approval from the RCAA for each flight. This regulatory framework ensures safety, efficiency, and equitable access to Romanian airspace and airports, crucial for maintaining smooth operations amidst varying operational needs and traffic demands.

For slot requests, it is crucial to submit them well in advance, preferably at least 30 days before the scheduled operation for scheduled flights. This ensures sufficient time for coordination and allocation by the relevant authorities. In contrast, for non-scheduled flights, applications should be submitted at least 48 hours before the intended flight time. This lead time allows the Romanian Civil Aeronautical Authority (RCAA) to process and approve flight plans promptly, facilitating smooth and timely operations for business jet operators in Romania. Needed Documents:

• Flight Authorization Request: Detailed flight schedule & Aircraft registration and details
• Insurance Certificate: Proof of adequate insurance coverage
• Airworthiness Certificate: Valid certificate for the aircraft
• Crew Licenses: Valid licenses for all operating crew members
• Noise Certificate: Compliance with noise regulations
• Operator’s Certificate: Valid Air Operator Certificate (AOC) or equivalent
• Passenger Manifest: List of all passengers on board

Applications for slots and flight permits should be submitted directly to the Romanian Civil Aeronautical Authority (RCAA). For seamless flight operations, Just Aviation streamlines the entire process, managing all paperwork efficiently. For any inquiries or assistance, contact our dedicated slot coordination team, ensuring smooth coordination and compliance with regulatory procedures without the hassle of paperwork.

Overflight Permits in Romania’s International Operations

In Romania, overflight permits for non-scheduled air transport are issued by the Romanian Civil Aeronautical Authority (RCAA) on behalf of the Ministry of Transport. These permits are necessary for flights involving civil aircraft registered in another state that have their origin and/or destination within Romanian territory. To obtain these permits, operators must notify the RCAA, providing details such as the flight schedule, any amendments, and aircraft specifics. EU member state air carriers can conduct flights falling under Regulation (EC) No 1008/2008 of the European Parliament and Council within Romania, subject to notification. Typically, flight rights are reserved for operators from the origin and destination countries, though third-country operators may receive authorization under specific conditions. Operators must submit flight authorization applications to the RCAA within designated timeframes and secure arrival/departure slots prior to application. Essential documents required for obtaining overflight permits are:

• Flight Authorization Request
• Authorization from State of Registry
• Insurance Documentation (This insurance should comply with the requirements outlined in Regulation (EC) No 785/2004.)
• Flight Plan
• Amendment Notifications
• Arrival/Departure Slots

Landing Permits in Romania’s International Operations

Landing permits for non-scheduled air transport in Romania are essential for international flights landing within Romanian territory. These permits, granted by the Romanian Civil Aeronautical Authority (RCAA), are required for various types of flights, including air ambulance operations, emergency medical assistance, search and rescue (SAR), and flights involving official governmental and presidential delegations. Application procedures vary based on the nature of the flight:

• For air ambulance operations, emergency medical assistance, and SAR flights, applications must be submitted to the RCAA at least thirty (30) minutes before the operation begins.
• Flights with official governmental and presidential delegations require applications to be routed through the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the RCAA at least two (2) days prior to the flight’s scheduled commencement.

Flight authorizations for non-scheduled air transport in Romania are granted by the Romanian Civil Aeronautical Authority (RCAA) on behalf of the Ministry of Transport. These authorizations adhere to international agreements Romania has ratified. Within the European Union (EU), non-scheduled air services covered under Regulation (EC) No 1008/2008 can be conducted by EU member state air carriers without prior authorization, provided they submit a notification to RCAA detailing flight specifics and aircraft information.

Operators should apply for flight authorizations depending on the number of flights planned within a 14-day period: at least two (2) working days in advance for fewer than three flights, and at least seven (7) working days in advance for four or more flights. Requests should include comprehensive details such as the flight schedule, any amendments, and aircraft type and registration marks. Changes to flight schedules must be communicated to RCAA at least two (2) days before the intended changes take effect.

Operators of non-Romanian registered aircraft must comply with all applicable legislative requirements. If no response is received from RCAA within twenty-four (24) hours before the flight, the flight authorization is considered granted. Additionally, operators must ensure their aircraft are adequately insured as per the provisions of Regulation (EC) No 785/2004 to cover damages to third parties on the ground.

Just Aviation specializes in providing comprehensive flight support services, including ground handling, overflight and landing permits, and slot coordination. We work closely with flight and cabin crew as well as ground handling teams to ensure seamless operations for our clients. Whether you require efficient permit processing or optimized slot allocations, Just Aviation is committed to delivering reliable support to enhance your flight operations in Romania and beyond.