Romanian Presidential Administration Reveals Former President Iohannis’ Flight Costs Amid Criticism

In a move towards greater transparency, the Romanian Presidential Administration, under interim President Ilie Bolojan, has declassified the costs associated with former President Klaus Iohannis’ flights abroad during his tenure from 2015 to 2025. The disclosure has sparked intense debate among Romanian politicians and the public, with many criticizing the expenses as excessive.

Details of the Costs

During his presidency, Iohannis undertook 193 official trips and approximately 450 flights. The total cost for these trips was nearly RON 114 million (approximately EUR 22.9 million). The expenses were exceptionally high for trips to Asia and South America in 2023, with one tour costing RON 7,519,680 (approximately EUR 1.5 million). The planes used for these trips were primarily rented from Toyo Aviation (Romania) for European destinations and Global Jet (Luxembourg) for longer international flights.

The revelation of these costs has prompted sharp reactions from Romanian politicians. Presidential candidates such as George Simion, Elena Lasconi, and Nicusor Dan have described the amounts as excessive and criticized the perceived luxury of the flights. Elena Lasconi, the USR candidate, emphasized that in a country where many children go hungry, such expenses are an “aberration” that should not be repeated.

In response to the criticism and calls for greater transparency, interim President Ilie Bolojan has announced that the Presidential Administration will publish its monthly expenses on its website starting in April 2025. This move addresses concerns about the lack of transparency in government spending.

Context and Implications

The disclosure comes at a sensitive time, with Romania preparing for presidential elections in May. The issue of government spending and transparency will likely remain a central theme in the campaign as candidates seek to capitalize on public discontent with perceived extravagance in government.

The declassification of former President Iohannis’ flight costs has ignited a heated debate about government spending and transparency in Romania. As the country progresses with its electoral process, these issues are expected to continue influencing public opinion and political discourse.