11 Sep 2025
#2 September 2025: North American Aviation Newsletter
Azorra Delivers Australia’s First Embraer E190-E2 to Virgin Australia
Azorra has delivered the first Embraer E190-E2 to Virgin Australia, marking both the lessor’s debut partnership with the airline and the first time this aircraft type will operate under a major airline group in Australia. The E190-E2 will replace the ageing Fokker 100 fleet, offering up to 30% fuel savings and significantly lower emissions on regional routes in Western Australia.
The 100-seater jet is powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, providing better range, quieter operation, and enhanced passenger comfort via its 2×2 cabin configuration.
Azorra CEO John Evans remarked:
“Welcoming Virgin Australia as a new customer marks a proud milestone. The E190-E2’s efficiency and fuel burn profile make it an ideal fit for Virgin’s modernisation ambitions.”
Titan, Bain Capital & Atlas Launch $410 Million Freighter Platform
Titan Aviation Leasing, in partnership with Bain Capital and Atlas Air Worldwide, has announced the launch of Titan Aircraft Investments II, DAC (TAI 2), a second freighter aircraft investment platform backed by $410 million in capital.
This follows the successful deployment of TAI 1, which placed 19 aircraft with 11 lessees globally, tapping into sustained demand driven by e-commerce and express cargo growth.
Eamonn Forbes, SVP & CCO of Titan, noted:
“We’re excited to scale this platform further with TAI 2, helping global cargo operators access flexible, efficient leasing solutions amid evolving supply chain dynamics.”
WestJet Signs Canada’s Largest-Ever Aircraft Order with Boeing
WestJet has inked an order for 60 Boeing 737-10 MAX aircraft with options for 25 more, alongside an order for seven Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners (with four options). This move boosts the carrier’s order book to 123 firm aircraft and 40 options, extending WestJet’s fleet growth through 2034.
The new aircraft will enable the Canadian carrier to grow both its narrowbody and widebody operations, supporting expansion across domestic, transcontinental, and international routes.
CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech commented:
“This order cements WestJet’s place as Canada’s most ambitious airline. These fuel-efficient aircraft are central to our mission of delivering affordable travel, scaling operations, and offering long-term career pathways.”
Acumen’s Take
Azorra’s Entry into Oceania with Virgin Australia
This milestone marks Azorra’s strategic geographic diversification and enhances its presence in the fast-recovering Oceania regional market. Virgin Australia’s adoption of the E190-E2 signals a tactical fleet modernisation, aimed at cutting costs while improving regional network performance. Expect more E2 placements in Asia-Pacific as the demand for right-sized, efficient jets increases.
TAI 2 Reflects Continued Confidence in Freighter Demand
The launch of TAI 2 indicates that freighter leasing remains a highly attractive asset class, even post-pandemic. Titan’s ability to raise capital and scale a second platform shows investor confidence in both cargo aircraft economics and Titan’s asset deployment track record. This move positions Titan as a critical long-term player in cargo leasing, especially for mid-life freighters.
WestJet’s Boeing Bet Signals Aggressive Growth
WestJet’s historic Boeing deal underlines a shift in fleet philosophy—from conservative, domestic-focused growth to full-service, international ambitions. The MAX 10 and Dreamliner mix supports both high-frequency short-haul and long-haul expansion, reinforcing WestJet’s transformation from a low-cost regional carrier to a hybrid model with global reach.
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