27 Nov 2025
#3 November 2025: North American Aviation Newsletter
Mesa Air Group Shareholders Approve Merger with Republic Airways
Mesa Air Group announced that shareholders have approved all proposals presented at the company’s special shareholder meeting, including the adoption of the merger agreement with Republic Airways Holdings Inc. The merger remains subject to regulatory approvals and standard closing conditions. Chairman and CEO Jonathan Ornstein said, “We appreciate the strong and clear support our shareholders have provided. This vote confirms the strategic value of combining Mesa and Republic and positions the combined company for enhanced scale and long-term stability.” The merger would create one of the largest regional aviation platforms in the U.S., consolidating fleets, operational synergies, and crew resources.
New Pacific Airlines and beOnd Launch “beOnd America” Premium Leisure Partnership
New Pacific Airlines (NPA) and beOnd, the world’s first premium leisure airline, announced a strategic collaboration titled beOnd America. Under the partnership, NPA will operate eight aircraft featuring beOnd’s all-business-class product for U.S. travellers. While route structures and timelines remain subject to regulatory clearance, both companies confirmed that operations will adhere fully to U.S. Department of Transportation and FAA requirements. Tom Hsieh, CEO of New Pacific Airlines, said, “This partnership allows us to deliver something truly distinctive for American travellers — a boutique, luxury airline experience that blends comfort, design, and service excellence in a way not seen in U.S. skies.” The partnership aims to introduce a new niche category in the U.S. market: premium leisure long-haul travel.
Willis Lease Finance Corporation Affirms Commitment for 30 CFM LEAP Engines
Willis Lease Finance Corporation (WLFC) announced that it will exercise options for 30 CFM International LEAP spare engines, part of its 2019 agreement for up to 60 units — the largest engine order in its history. WLFC currently manages a portfolio of more than 350 engines, including LEAP and CFM56 variants supporting Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 families. CEO Austin Willis said, “This order underscores our confidence in the LEAP engine’s performance and reliability, as well as our commitment to supporting the next generation of fuel-efficient aircraft.” The commitment strengthens WLFC’s long-term position in the spare engine leasing market as airlines increasingly transition to new-generation narrowbody fleets.
Acumen’s Take
On Mesa–Republic Shareholder Approval
Shareholder backing for the Mesa–Republic merger signifies a consolidating U.S. regional aviation sector. Combined scale offers improved cost efficiencies, stronger crew pipelines, and greater negotiating power with OEMs and partners — all essential for navigating pilot shortages and rising operational costs.
On the beOnd America Collaboration
The partnership between New Pacific Airlines and beOnd introduces a novel premium leisure concept into the U.S. market. With strong appeal among high-end travellers seeking boutique long-haul experiences, this model could carve out a distinct niche if network planning and regulatory approvals align successfully.
On WLFC’s LEAP Engine Commitment
WLFC’s exercise of LEAP engine options reinforces strong confidence in next-generation narrowbody utilisation. As airlines prioritise fuel efficiency and emissions reductions, the demand for LEAP-powered spares is set to rise, making this commitment strategically well-timed.
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