Cluj Airport, Romania. Photo: Alexanderstock23 / Shutterstock.com Avram Iancu Cluj International Airport has reached a major milestone in 2026, welcoming its two millionth passenger of the year and doing so approximately one week earlier than in 2025.
The achievement, celebrated alongside the Cluj County Council and Romania's national carrier TAROM, highlights the continued growth of the country's second busiest airport and its increasing importance as a regional transportation hub.
The landmark passenger arrived in Cluj-Napoca aboard TAROM flight RO643 from Bucharest. Airport officials organized a special ceremony upon arrival, attended by representatives of local authorities, partner organizations, airline executives, and members of the media.
This marks the eighth time in the airport's history that it has surpassed the two million passenger mark, underscoring a sustained period of expansion and growing demand for air travel in Transylvania.
According to airport officials, Cluj International Airport now serves more than 60 destinations across approximately 25 countries. The network has expanded significantly in 2026, with 13 new routes added since the beginning of the year.
Cluj County Council President Alin Tișe attributed the milestone to long-term investments and a clear development strategy.
"The two million passengers marked today are the result of sustained investments and strategic decisions. A strong airport means a more competitive economy, new investments, and opportunities for the entire region," Tișe said.
David Ciceo, General Manager of Cluj International Airport, said the performance reflects the trust passengers continue to place in the airport and its airline partners.
"Exceeding the two million passenger threshold for the eighth time is a performance that reflects the professionalism and dedication of the entire airport team, our strong partnerships with airlines, and above all, the confidence of millions of travelers who choose Cluj Airport," Ciceo said.
TAROM also used the occasion to highlight its longstanding relationship with Cluj. The airline currently operates 25 weekly frequencies between Cluj-Napoca and Bucharest, increasing to as many as five or six flights per day during peak travel periods.
The carrier noted that business travelers remain the largest passenger segment on the route, while demand for medical travel and cultural tourism has also increased significantly in recent years.
The airport's momentum has continued throughout the summer. On July 18, Cluj Airport recorded its busiest July day ever, handling 14,501 passengers in a single day.
With traffic continuing to climb, airport officials say several infrastructure modernization and expansion projects are underway to support future growth and ensure Cluj remains one of Romania's leading aviation gateways.