06 Jun 2025
#1 June 2025: North American Aviation Newsletter
Azorra Expands Portfolio with 49 E-Jets and Two Engines from DAE
Azorra has entered into definitive purchase agreements to acquire 49 Embraer E-Jet aircraft and two General Electric CF-34 engines from DAE. The assets are leased to 12 customers across the globe. The transaction builds on Azorra’s previous portfolio acquisitions, including the purchase of Voyager Aviation Holdings in 2023 and two prior deals involving 48 aircraft from NAC.
Azorra CEO John Evans commented, “We’re excited to add these high-quality, current-generation assets to Azorra’s growing fleet… These reliable and proven aircraft complement our commitment to new technology crossover jets.”
KF Aerospace Delivers First ATR 72-500 Freighter for Purolator BC Feeder Network
KF Aerospace completed its first ATR 72-500 freighter conversion for Purolator at Kelowna International Airport (YLW). The aircraft (MSN707) now carries Purolator’s full livery and is the first of three ATRs to replace older Convair CV580s. This milestone supports KF’s ongoing contract with Purolator to strengthen cargo services in British Columbia.
KF VP of Business Development, Bryan Akerstream said, “This delivery marks an exciting step forward… made possible by the diverse capabilities of our teams—from aircraft acquisition to major modifications, in-house painting and flight operations.”
WestJet Group Finalises Integration of Sunwing Airlines
WestJet Group has officially completed its integration of Sunwing Airlines as of 28 May 2025. The consolidation brings 18 former Sunwing jets under WestJet’s AOC, in addition to previous integrations of Swoop (16 aircraft) and Lynx Air (9 aircraft). Cabin reconfiguration to WestJet standard interiors will continue through 2025.
WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech stated, “Achieving this milestone is proof of the incredible way our unified team works together and is a clear win for WestJet and our guests… It’s also a story of transformation in Canadian aviation.”
Acumen’s Take
On Azorra’s DAE Portfolio Acquisition
This acquisition underscores Azorra’s strategic ambition to consolidate its foothold in the crossover and regional jet segment. By integrating assets leased to a globally diverse customer base, Azorra continues to build fleet depth while maintaining exposure across multiple geographies and credit profiles.
On KF’s ATR Freighter for Purolator
KF Aerospace’s delivery of the ATR 72-500F signals a generational shift in regional cargo aircraft in Canada. The replacement of legacy Convair freighters with more efficient ATRs will enhance fuel performance and operational flexibility, especially for challenging regional routes across British Columbia.
On WestJet–Sunwing Consolidation
The completion of Sunwing’s integration solidifies WestJet’s position as Canada’s dominant narrowbody operator. With all jet aircraft unified under one AOC, WestJet is now poised to extract synergies across fleet management, scheduling, and crew utilisation.
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