Based on a few recent flights, here is a quick update on Tarom’s Business Class:
Seating
On the 737-300 and 737-700, business is 3-4 rows of 2+2 seating (a similar approach to KQ’s, but not quite as spacious, I felt). Still, much better than most airlines seem to offer for European short-haul these days.
Business class on a 737-700
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However, the A318 has an ‘Air France’ style setup: basically 3+3 economy-class seats (and pitch?), with the middle-seat blocked, and the back-rest folded down to form a table. This is not nearly so spacious as the 737 layout.
IFE
The 737-700 (and I think the A318) has overhead TV screen (although they only seemed to be showing a series of shorts, rather than a full movie). The 737-300 didn’t have any video.
Meals
My flights were all 2+ hrs, and in each case there was a reasonable hot meal served. Admittedly I’m no gourmet, but I thought the quality was pretty good.
Breakfast
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There are also pictures of
Tarom meals on their website.
Lounge
I thought the lounge in OTP is now Tarom-branded, but I might be wrong. It’s up the escalators to the left, around gate 9 (I think). It’s light and airy, with a nice view over part of the apron. As mentioned above, it has free wifi, drinks and snacks (but no hot food). No need for an invitation card - C-class BP (or ST E+ FFP card, presumably) is sufficient to gain entry.
Tarom lounge in Bucharest Otopeni, international terminal
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Other
All my flights were on time.
The cabin crew were friendly and helpful (and spoke English).
I got very prompt and helpful responses
by email, when I needed to change my reservations, etc.
Summary
I was quite impressed, and thought it was a good product compared to short-haul C-class on many other airlines these days. I would certainly fly RO again, should their routes and schedules fit my requirements.