AnimaWings launches the only direct Cluj-Napoca – Thessaloniki route and expands its Transylvania network for the summer 2026 season
07/04/2026 by Animawings / News
AnimaWings, a 100% Romanian full-service airline, is accelerating its operational development across regional airports and announces the expansion of its flight network from Cluj-Napoca with the launch of a new scheduled route to Thessaloniki, starting in June 2026. The new direct connection complements the destinations already operated from Cluj — Athens, Olbia and Bucharest — and strengthens the city’s position as a strategic regional hub within the company’s network.
The Cluj-Napoca – Thessaloniki route will be operated starting June 2, 2026, with two weekly frequencies, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, throughout the summer season.
Cluj-Napoca becomes a strategic point in AnimaWings’ network development
The new route represents the only direct connection between Cluj-Napoca and Thessaloniki, offering fast access to some of the most popular destinations in northern Greece, such as the Olympic Riviera, Paralia Katerini and Olympic Beach. The route targets both the leisure segment, through tour operator packages, as well as passengers traveling for business purposes.
Passengers benefit from a full-service onboard experience, with all tickets including free seat selection, an 8 kg cabin bag, a 4 kg personal item, and complimentary check-in, available online or at the airport. Flights will be operated with modern Airbus A220-300 aircraft, configured with 148 Economy seats. In addition, passengers can opt for hot catering, available either as an individual package or in an all-inclusive option including drinks and snacks.
The expansion of operations in Cluj is part of AnimaWings’ strategy to accelerate development across Romania’s regional airports by increasing direct connectivity and diversifying nonstop destinations available for passengers from Transylvania.
“Cluj-Napoca is becoming a strategic hub for AnimaWings, and the expansion of our operations here reflects the growing demand for direct flights from Transylvania. We are focused on developing relevant routes that address both leisure and business needs, while offering a full-service flight experience superior to the low-cost model. Our objective is to strengthen the role of regional airports in Romania’s international connectivity,” said Marius Pandel, CEO of AnimaWings.
David Ciceo, CEO of Avram Iancu Cluj International Airport, stated:
“On April 1, 1932, the former military airport in Someșeni became a civil airport, marking the beginning of a success story in Cluj’s air transport. Today, on our anniversary, we celebrate 94 years of Cluj International Airport by announcing the launch of new routes to Athens, Thessaloniki and Olbia operated by AnimaWings, strengthening international connections and continuing the airport’s mission to offer passengers new opportunities and quality travel experiences. The Thessaloniki route is highly appreciated both for tourism and for the business environment, responding to real demand from passengers in both segments.”
Expansion of direct flight program
Alongside the launch of the Thessaloniki route, the company is strengthening its presence at Cluj-Napoca Airport through additional direct routes:
- Cluj – Athens, operated from April 2026, with two weekly frequencies
- Cluj – Olbia, seasonal route for summer 2026
- Cluj – Bucharest, operated since January 2025, with 12–13 weekly frequencies, the most popular domestic route in the company’s portfolio
Through these developments, Cluj-Napoca becomes a key point in the AnimaWings network, supporting regional mobility as well as direct access to major European leisure destinations and urban centers.
AnimaWings operates as a full-service carrier, offering included onboard services and an enhanced travel experience. The company aims to further expand its route network from regional airports, contributing to increased direct connectivity and mobility development across Romania.
