Aegean Airlines takes majority stake in fledgling Romanian operator Animawings

Aegean Airlines has taken a bigger step into the Romanian market by becoming the majority shareholder in leisure operator Animawings, the Greek carrier said on 14 October. Aegean acquired a 25% stake in the airline – which was established by tour operator Memento Group – in 2020, but has now upped its holding to 51%. “The long-standing and successful partnership with [Memento Group] is evolving into a joint business venture in Romania,” says Aegean CE Dimitris Gerogiannis. “We strongly believe in the potential of the Romanian market and the capabilities of our partner Memento Group.” Aegean says it will provide the Romanian carrier with three aircraft for the summer 2022 season for charter and scheduled flights. The Greek carrier will “oversee and support operations”, it says, while Memento will provide commercial functions. Animawings launched operations in July 2020 with its first flight from Bucharest Henri Coanda airport. Its website advertises services to destinations including Hurghada, Zanzibar, the Maldives and Dubai.<br/>