11 Dec 2025
#2 December 2025: North American Aviation Newsletter
Azorra Sells Two A330-300s to Xiamen Airlease
Azorra has completed the sale of two Airbus A330-300 aircraft (MSN 1432 and 1579) to Xiamen Airlease, with both aircraft remaining on lease to Sichuan Airlines. The transaction marks Azorra’s first collaboration with Xiamen Airlease and underscores its growing presence in Asia-Pacific trading markets. CEO John Evans highlighted the strength of Azorra’s culturally diverse and multilingual team including Mandarin-speaking specialists in facilitating smooth execution of complex cross-border deals. As global demand continues to rise, Azorra remains focused on delivering flexible, high-quality fleet solutions for airlines and lessor partners worldwide.
Avelo Airlines Inaugurates Service to Key West
Avelo Airlines has launched exclusive nonstop service between Southern Connecticut’s Tweed–New Haven Airport (HVN) and Key West International Airport (EYW). The route operates twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays using Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft, becoming the only nonstop link between the two destinations. CEO Andrew Levy said the new service reflects sustained demand for convenient, affordable travel from Southern Connecticut, while also providing Key West travellers improved access to New England and the wider Northeast. With more than 30 nonstop destinations, Avelo continues to expand its footprint from HVN.
Airlines for America Applauds TSA for Record Thanksgiving Screening
Airlines for America (A4A) commended the Transportation Security Administration after TSA screened an all-time record of 3,133,924 travellers on Sunday, 30 November — the busiest day in U.S. aviation history. The achievement followed A4A’s forecast that more than 31 million passengers would fly during the Thanksgiving travel period. A4A President and CEO Chris Sununu praised TSA personnel for ensuring a safe and efficient travel experience during one of the most demanding peak periods. U.S. carriers and TSA continue to collaborate closely to maintain safety, security and operational resilience across the national air transportation system.
Acumen’s Take
On Azorra’s A330-300 Sale
The transaction reflects continued liquidity in the mid-life widebody market, particularly for the A330 platform, which remains popular among Asian operators. Azorra’s cross-cultural execution capabilities signal a strategic advantage as aircraft trading becomes increasingly globalised.
On Avelo’s Key West Service
Avelo’s expansion reinforces the strength of point-to-point leisure demand and the rising strategic importance of secondary hubs like HVN. Exclusive routes provide differentiation while enabling efficient aircraft utilisation across a growing network.
On TSA’s Record Thanksgiving
Record screening volumes highlight the resilience of U.S. passenger demand and the importance of coordinated airline–government operations. Strong throughput performance during peak travel strengthens confidence heading into 2026’s high-demand periods.
Acumen Aviation © 12 December 2025 All Rights Reserved.
