18 Sep 2025
#3 September 2025: North American Aviation Newsletter
AerCap Delivers First Two Boeing 777-300ERSFs to Kalitta Air
AerCap has delivered the first two Boeing 777-300ERSF Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) converted aircraft to Kalitta Air, including the prototype certification aircraft. These deliveries are the first in a seven-aircraft order and mark the next phase of Kalitta’s fleet renewal strategy.
Both aircraft arrived at Kalitta’s facility in Oscoda, Michigan, on September 12 and 13, and are expected to enter revenue service in early October. The 777-300ERSF offers enhanced range and payload capacity, replacing ageing 747 freighters in Kalitta’s fleet.
Kalitta Air CEO Connie Kalitta said:
“Kalitta Air has always embraced new technology to serve our customers, and we are proud to be the launch operator for the first 777-300ERSF. This aircraft will give us greater range and payload capability to meet growing demand in the global cargo market.”
Avelo Airlines Orders up to 100 Embraer E195-E2s
Avelo Airlines has signed a firm order for 50 Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, with purchase rights for 50 additional units. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in H1 2027. The deal, valued at US$4.4 billion at list prices (excluding options), makes Avelo the first U.S. airline to operate the E195-E2.
Equipped with Embraer’s Enhanced Takeoff System (E2TS), the E2 offers superior short-field performance and fuel efficiency, enabling Avelo to access smaller markets while enhancing operations at existing airports.
Avelo Airlines Founder & CEO Andrew Levy commented:
“Our customers will love the E2’s comfort, quiet cabin, and spacious overhead bins. From a network standpoint, the aircraft’s performance and economics align perfectly with our vision to expand affordable air travel across underserved markets in the U.S.”
JetBlue Ventures Rebrands to SKY VC Post-Acquisition by SKY Leasing
JetBlue Ventures has officially rebranded as SKY VC following its acquisition by SKY Leasing in May 2025. The rebrand signifies its transition into an independent venture capital platform focused on scaling transformative technologies across travel and transportation.
Now backed by SKY Leasing’s global infrastructure, SKY VC will focus on connecting disruptive startups with established industry players to accelerate innovation.
Amy Burr, CEO of SKY VC, stated:
“While JetBlue is no longer in our name, they remain a key strategic partner. Our mission continues: bridging startups with leaders to bring aviation innovations from concept to commercial scale.”
Acumen’s Take
On AerCap–Kalitta 777-300ERSF Deliveries
The first commercial deliveries of the 777-300ERSF P2F mark a watershed moment in widebody freighter conversions. With Kalitta Air at the forefront, this program offers significant range-payload advantages over legacy 747s—while retaining twin-engine fuel efficiency. AerCap’s conversion strategy now moves from prototype to scale, addressing a growing demand for next-gen long-haul freighters.
On Avelo’s E2 Order
Avelo’s substantial investment in the E195-E2 reflects a bold move to modernise and differentiate in the crowded U.S. domestic market. The aircraft’s economics and short-field capabilities position Avelo to operate efficiently on thinner, underserved routes. This is also a critical win for Embraer’s E2 program in North America, a region where it has seen limited penetration.
On SKY VC Rebrand
SKY VC’s emergence as a standalone investment entity aligns with growing investor interest in aviation-tech convergence. With SKY Leasing’s backing, the firm is well-placed to scale early-stage innovations across mobility, travel, and sustainability—areas of increasing strategic relevance to airlines and lessors alike.
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