Blue Air, the only low cost operator with Romanian shareholders, was market leader for four years. However, Wizz Air, which entered the local market three years ago, is currently a challenger for market lead. The Hungarian company announced it planned to change the ranking on this market at the end of 2008. It has an aggressive policy to attract new clients by doubling transportation capacities and launching new flights at low prices.
However, Blue Air is not willing to give up without a fight. It also announced new flight at low prices.
Last year, Blue Air had one million passengers, some 16-18 percent higher on 2007, while Wizz Air had 900,000 passengers, 148 percent higher year-on-year.
Analysts are reluctant to talk about figures, given that operators must shift their strategies to adjust to higher costs foreseen in 2009.
Blue Air General Manager, Gheorghe Racaru, said the company "will maintain leadership in 2009" and will consolidate its position locally with new flights. According to company data, prices start from €40, all taxes included.
However, Racaru expects the number of passengers to increase less than last year, only 10 percent.
Other low-cost operators on the local market are MyAir, easyJet, SkyEurope.
