10 Jul 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 10th July 2025
Acumen Aviation Newsletters
Acumen Aviation’s newsletters offer deep dives into the most impactful trends and developments across the aviation sector. These resources are crafted to keep you informed about critical industry changes and provide actionable insights:
- China Aviation Industry Newsletter: Stay up to date with the latest developments across China’s dynamic aviation sector, from fleet expansions and leasing trends to regulatory updates and market analysis.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-1-july-2025-china-aviation-industry-newsletter
- India Aviation Newsletter: Explore the fast-evolving Indian aviation landscape, including updates on fleet orders, infrastructure investments, regulatory reforms, and growth strategies shaping the market’s trajectory.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-1-july-2025-india-aviation-newsletter
- Irish Aircraft Leasing Newsletter: Get the latest insights on transactions, fleet deliveries, funding activity, and strategic moves driving Ireland’s position as the world’s leading aircraft leasing hub.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-1-july-2025-irish-aircraft-leasing-newsletter
- Irish Commercial Aircraft Update: Catch up on the most recent movements, deliveries, and registrations involving Ireland-linked commercial aircraft, including lessor activity and operator fleet changes.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-1-july-2025-irish-commercial-aircraft-update
- North American Aviation Newsletter: Explore the latest developments shaping aviation across North America, from fleet transactions and traffic trends to regulatory updates and market outlooks.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-1-july-2025-north-american-aviation-newsletter
IrishAero News
Boeing Delivers Fourth 737 MAX to Flydubai Through Shannon
Flydubai has taken delivery of another Boeing 737-8 MAX, with the aircraft registered A6-FQG (msn 61031). It routed via Shannon Airport on 25 June during its delivery flight from Boeing Field in Seattle to Dubai. After an overnight technical stop in Shannon, it continued non-stop to Dubai International Airport (DXB).
Acumen’s Take
Shannon Airport continues to play a strategic role as a key transatlantic ferry point for new aircraft deliveries, reflecting Ireland’s importance in the global aircraft delivery and leasing ecosystem.
CityJet Phases Out EI-FPI CRJ900
According to Skyliner Aviation, CityJet’s Mitsubishi CRJ-900LR, registered EI-FPI (msn 15425) and named Inga Viking, was ferried from Valencia to Dayton International Airport between 17–18 June 2025. The aircraft, leased from Falko, routed via Keflavik, Goose Bay, and Toronto before joining PSA Airlines in the US as N640NN. PSA operates as a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group under the American Eagle brand.
Acumen’s Take
This transfer highlights CityJet’s continued fleet streamlining as regional capacity shifts to operators in North America, reflecting the dynamic reallocation of regional jets in response to evolving market demand.
SunExpress Adds Dublin–Dalaman Route
SunExpress, the Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines joint venture, has announced a new Dublin–Dalaman route for its summer 2026 programme. The service will operate twice weekly using 189-seat Boeing 737-800 and 737 MAX 8 aircraft. This expansion builds on SunExpress’ existing Dublin schedule, which currently includes 10 weekly flights to Antalya and Izmir.
Acumen’s Take
This move underscores the strong demand for leisure connectivity between Ireland and Turkey, while also reflecting SunExpress’ strategy to diversify its Irish offering beyond Antalya and Izmir.
TAAG Angola Airlines A220-300 Delivered via Dublin
TAAG Angola Airlines has received its third Airbus A220-300, registered D2-TAI (msn 55362). The 137-seat aircraft, configured with 12 business class, 35 premium economy, and 90 economy seats, was ferried from Montreal to Luanda via Dublin and Faro between 21–25 June 2025.
Acumen’s Take
The delivery further demonstrates the A220’s role as a versatile platform for African carriers modernising fleets to improve regional and intercontinental connectivity.
United Airlines Increases Dublin–U.S. Connectivity
United Airlines has announced an expansion of its nonstop services between Dublin and the United States, offering its highest ever capacity from the Irish capital. The airline will extend the second daily frequency on its Dublin–New York route to almost year-round operation using Boeing 757-200ERs, and its Dublin–Chicago O’Hare service to year-round using Boeing 767-300ERs between October 2025 and March 2026. United will now provide more flights and seats from Dublin than any other U.S. airline on a year-round basis.
Acumen’s Take
This move highlights United’s strong commitment to Dublin as a transatlantic gateway and underlines the city’s growing role as a major hub connecting Europe and North America.
Aircraft Update
TC-LBV Airbus A320-232 Delivered to AJet
Airbus A320-232, bearing manufacturer serial number 5605 and newly registered as TC-LBV, was delivered to AJet on 29th June 2025 in Istanbul. The aircraft, previously operated as 9V-TRW, marks another addition to the carrier’s expanding narrowbody fleet, supporting its short- to medium-haul network strategy.
Acumen’s Take
This delivery signals continued momentum for AJet’s growth, underlining the airline’s focus on fleet modernisation and route flexibility. For lessors and asset managers, such movements reaffirm the A320ceo’s ongoing relevance in emerging market fleets, offering a strong balance between acquisition cost and operational efficiency.
2-FWCC Airbus A321neo Ferried to Istanbul for FWCAS
Airbus A321-271N, manufacturer serial number 8906 and now registered as 2-FWCC, was ferried to Istanbul on 19th June 2025. Previously operated as VN-A520, the aircraft has been repositioned under the management of FWCAS, indicating a transition phase potentially involving maintenance, lease placement, or operator change.
Acumen’s Take
The ferry of this A321neo highlights ongoing secondary market activity for new-generation narrowbodies, which remain in high demand due to their range, efficiency, and capacity. For asset managers, Istanbul continues to serve as a strategic handover and transition hub, reinforcing its role in facilitating aircraft redeployment across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Global Aviation News
Bizjet Sentiment Sees Modest Uptick Amid Market Caution
According to Jefferies’ June 2025 business jet broker survey, overall sentiment has edged up to 6.1 out of 10—marking a slight improvement from 5.9 in January. However, the index remains notably below the January 2022 peak of 8.7, indicating that while optimism is returning, broader market caution persists across the business aviation sector.
Acumen’s Take
The marginal rise in bizjet sentiment suggests stabilisation but not full recovery. For lessors, OEMs, and asset investors, this reflects a market in transition—balancing strong long-term fundamentals with near-term hesitancy driven by macroeconomic and geopolitical headwinds. Strategic patience and targeted placements will be key in navigating this phase.
Boeing Announces CFO Transition, Appoints Jay Malave
Boeing has unveiled a key leadership change, with current CFO Brian West set to transition into a senior advisory role to President and CEO Kelly Ortberg. Effective 15 August 2025, Jesus “Jay” Malave will assume the position of executive vice president and chief financial officer. Malave brings extensive financial leadership experience from roles across the aerospace and defence sectors.
Acumen’s Take
This transition comes at a pivotal moment for Boeing as it navigates supply chain pressures, delivery delays, and strategic realignment. The appointment of Jay Malave signals a push for renewed financial discipline and stakeholder confidence. For lessors, financiers, and partners, leadership stability at the executive level is critical as Boeing seeks to rebuild momentum and credibility in the global aircraft market.
Cathay Group Reaches 100 Global Destinations
The Cathay Group has achieved a major milestone by expanding its network to 100 global passenger destinations, following the addition of six new routes in May and June 2025. This expansion comes alongside multiple accolades, including Cathay Pacific’s Top 3 global airline ranking in the 2025 Skytrax Awards and Cathay Cargo’s recognition as Airline of the Year – Asia.
Acumen’s Take
Cathay’s resurgence signals strong recovery momentum across both passenger and cargo divisions, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as a critical aviation hub in Asia. For lessors and strategic partners, the Group’s operational and brand resurgence creates renewed opportunities for aircraft placement and long-term engagement in a region rebounding from prolonged pandemic disruption.
IATA Reports 2.2% Rise in Global Air Cargo Demand in May
According to IATA, global air cargo demand grew by 2.2% year-on-year in May 2025, with international demand up by 3.0%. Despite disruptions linked to evolving U.S. trade policies, the sector showed resilience, supported by a 2.0% increase in available capacity. These figures highlight steady recovery momentum in global air freight markets.
Acumen’s Take
The uptick in air cargo demand amid geopolitical and trade uncertainty underscores the sector’s adaptability and importance in global supply chains. For lessors and asset managers, sustained cargo growth supports long-term investment in freighter conversions and widebody utilisation—particularly as airlines seek diversified revenue streams in an uncertain macroeconomic climate.
Newark Expands to 176 Destinations in Q3; London Heathrow Joins Top 10
Newark Liberty International Airport will serve 176 destinations in Q3 2025, with 12 new routes added to its network. Notably, London Heathrow has entered the airport’s top 10 most-served destinations—underscoring transatlantic demand. Despite minor year-on-year passenger volume dips due to ATC constraints, 2024 marked Newark’s second-busiest year ever, with 48.9 million passengers.
Acumen’s Take
Newark’s sustained network growth reaffirms its strategic importance as a key transatlantic and domestic hub—especially given its proximity to Manhattan’s financial core. For lessors and network planners, the airport’s expanding route map and consistent traffic volumes present favourable conditions for aircraft deployment and long-haul narrowbody optimisation.
SAS Places Record Order for 55 Embraer Jets to Drive Growth
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has signed a landmark agreement to acquire 45 Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, with purchase rights for an additional 10—marking its largest direct jet order from a manufacturer since 1996. The move aligns with SAS’s strategic fleet renewal goals, aimed at boosting fuel efficiency, cutting emissions, and enhancing regional and international connectivity, particularly from its Copenhagen hub.
Acumen’s Take
This major Embraer order signals a clear shift toward next-generation regional aircraft optimised for sustainability and operational flexibility. For lessors and financiers, it reaffirms the E2 family’s growing appeal among full-service carriers looking to right-size capacity without compromising range or efficiency—especially in Europe’s evolving short- and medium-haul market.
Irish Aviation News
Shannon Airport Embraces Innovation to Strengthen Its Position
In a recent feature, Shannon Airport’s Director Niall Kearns emphasised the airport’s need to innovate continuously in order to thrive, given its geographic position on Ireland’s west coast. From enhancing passenger convenience to introducing unique customer experiences, Shannon is focused on staying relevant in a competitive national and international aviation landscape.
Acumen’s Take
Shannon Airport’s push for innovation is emblematic of the broader shift among regional hubs striving for sustainability and relevance. For lessors and operators, such proactive strategies can open doors to niche route opportunities, flexible aircraft placement, and untapped traffic flows—particularly as demand grows for alternative gateways outside Dublin.
Route Churn Continues at Ryanair’s Top 20 Airports
Air Service One’s 4th July 2025 analysis highlights Ryanair’s ongoing strategy of aggressive network adjustment, with frequent route launches and drops across its top 20 airports. While the airline consistently introduces more new routes than it discontinues, this churn reflects its nimble, data-driven approach to route profitability and capacity optimisation.
Acumen’s Take
Ryanair’s dynamic route management underscores the airline’s laser focus on yield and utilisation. For airports and lessors, this approach presents both opportunities and risks—demanding flexibility in infrastructure planning and fleet placement strategies, particularly at bases where Ryanair holds a significant traffic share.
ABL Aviation Delivers Airbus A321neo to Pegasus Airlines
ABL Aviation has successfully delivered a CFM LEAP-1A32-powered Airbus A321-251NX (MSN 12468) to Pegasus Airlines. The delivery underscores ABL’s commitment to providing next-generation, fuel-efficient aircraft to its airline partners. The aircraft is equipped with advanced engines designed to optimise performance, lower fuel consumption, and reduce emissions as Pegasus continues its network expansion.
Acumen’s Take
This delivery reinforces the A321neo’s position as a cornerstone of fleet modernisation strategies among value-focused carriers. For lessors and asset managers, it demonstrates the sustained demand for highly efficient narrowbodies, especially as airlines seek to balance growth with environmental responsibility and operational cost control.
CDB Aviation Delivers Three A320neo Aircraft to Volaris
CDB Aviation has completed the delivery of three Airbus A320neo aircraft to Volaris, enabling the Mexican low-cost carrier to bolster capacity in time for the peak summer travel season. The swift transition supports Volaris’ continued fleet modernisation and operational growth across its domestic and regional network.
Acumen’s Take
This delivery reflects the strategic alignment between lessors and fast-growing LCCs seeking fuel-efficient lift during high-demand periods. For asset managers, the transaction highlights the importance of timely execution and flexibility in placements—especially in Latin America, where market recovery is fuelling aggressive capacity deployment and newer-generation narrowbodies are in high demand.
City of Derry Airport Runway Run Raises £15,000 for Air Ambulance NI
More than 250 participants took to the runway at City of Derry Airport for a special 5K charity run, raising £15,000 in support of Air Ambulance Northern Ireland. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Sperrin Mountains and River Foyle, the event combined aviation with community spirit, with runners receiving commemorative medals and branded gear.
Acumen’s Take
Initiatives like the Runway Run strengthen the bond between airports and their local communities while supporting vital emergency services. Beyond public goodwill, such events offer airports enhanced visibility and engagement—important factors in long-term regional development and stakeholder support for infrastructure and route expansion.
Ireland Welcomes Over 560,000 Foreign Visitors in May, Generating €477 Million
According to the Central Statistics Office (CSO), Ireland received over 560,000 foreign visitors in May 2025, contributing €477 million in tourism revenue. The figures highlight strong inbound travel demand, with visitors primarily arriving from Great Britain, the United States, and continental Europe—supporting both urban and regional economies.
Acumen’s Take
The robust tourism figures reinforce the need for continued investment in Ireland’s air connectivity and airport infrastructure. For airlines and lessors, the sustained inflow of travellers presents opportunities to boost seasonal capacity, explore underserved routes, and position aircraft where demand remains strong across the leisure and VFR (Visiting Friends and Relatives) segments.
Ryanair Posts Record June Despite Slowing Growth Rate
Ryanair carried 202.6 million passengers in the rolling 12 months to June 2025—up 7% year-on-year—marking a record high for the airline. However, its June growth rate slowed to just 3%, the lowest non-pandemic rate since December 2017, largely due to ongoing Boeing delivery delays that have impacted fleet availability during the critical summer ramp-up.
Acumen’s Take
While Ryanair’s long-term growth remains impressive, the delivery bottlenecks spotlight vulnerabilities in supply chain reliability and fleet planning. For lessors and investors, this environment underscores the strategic importance of aircraft availability and the value of flexible lease structures to help operators navigate OEM-related disruptions.
Tweet Picks
@AviationWeek Elixir Aircraft has received an order for 30 of its #Elixir two-seaters from ENAC, France’s national school of civil aviation.
@CSMIA_Official A new chapter in connectivity takes flight. We’re proud to be part of the launch of IndiGo’s direct Mumbai–Manchester route—an inspiring step that brings the magic of travel to life between India and the UK.
@qatarairways World-renowned pastry chef Antonio Bachour brings his signature flair to our menu with an all-new bread and dessert collection - now available in our Premium Cabins. #QatarAirways.
@skift Qantas is testing the Airbus A321XLR's capabilities with a historic nonstop delivery flight from Hamburg to Bangkok, aiming for a record-breaking distance for this aircraft type.
Video Picks
AirAsia Eyes Gulf Hub in Strategic Expansion Plan
This video highlights AirAsia’s intentions to establish a Gulf hub, signalling a major geographic and strategic shift for the Southeast Asian low-cost carrier. The proposed expansion aims to tap into the Middle East’s growing travel demand and position AirAsia to serve new long-haul markets while leveraging strong regional connectivity.
Acumen’s Take
AirAsia’s move reflects the growing attractiveness of the Gulf as both a passenger and cargo hub, even for traditionally short-haul, low-cost operators. For lessors and asset managers, this shift opens up new placement opportunities and signals rising demand for narrowbody long-haul capable aircraft—particularly in underserved routes bridging Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.
Air Taxis Take Flight in Dubai’s Urban Skies
This video showcases the launch of air taxi trials in Dubai, where cutting-edge electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft are being tested as part of the city’s futuristic urban mobility vision. Operated along designated sky corridors, the initiative is backed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and aims to revolutionise short-distance travel in the region.
Acumen’s Take
Dubai’s push into eVTOL technology signals a bold step toward next-generation urban air mobility. For the aviation ecosystem—including OEMs, lessors, and infrastructure developers—this represents an emerging asset class with high disruption potential. Early investment and regulatory clarity will be key to unlocking commercial viability and scaling operations across global metro markets.
Citi’s Stephen Trent Discusses Airline Sector Health, Demand Trends, and M&A Outlook
In this interview, Stephen Trent, Managing Director of Citi, offers a comprehensive overview of the global airline sector. He discusses sustained travel demand recovery, the challenges of rising costs, and the role of consolidation as carriers seek scale and resilience. Trent also touches on how investor sentiment is shaping the future of airline M&A and fleet strategies.
Acumen’s Take
Trent’s insights reaffirm a cautiously optimistic outlook for aviation, where demand recovery is tempered by structural pressures on costs and supply chains. For lessors and asset managers, consolidation trends and strong investor interest suggest a renewed focus on portfolio agility, while partnerships and mergers will likely influence future aircraft demand and placement dynamics.
