10 Oct 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 10th October 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:
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IrishAero News
China Airlines A330-300 Arrives at Ireland West Airport
A China Airlines Airbus A330-301, registered B-18301 (MSN 0602), arrived at Ireland West Airport on 24 September 2025 at 10:01 local time. The aircraft, seen in basic China Airlines livery, operated as flight CAL077 from Taipei via Bangkok and Vienna before landing at Knock. The arrival marks a rare movement of a widebody aircraft from Taiwan’s flag carrier into Ireland West, underscoring the airport’s growing role in handling diverse aircraft operations.
CityJet Adds Ex-Lufthansa CRJ900 to Fleet
Irish ACMI operator CityJet took delivery of a Mitsubishi CRJ-900LR, registered EI-HSF (MSN 15089) and named Geiter Viking, on 24 September 2025. The aircraft will be based in Copenhagen and operate under a wet-lease agreement for SAS Scandinavian Airlines. Originally delivered to Lufthansa CityLine in 2006 as D-ACKJ, the jet later rejoined Lufthansa Regional before being transferred to CityJet via SAMCO Aircraft Maintenance earlier this year. The addition strengthens CityJet’s CRJ900 fleet, supporting its continued partnership with SAS and expanding its European ACMI operations.
Ryanair Group Reaches 196th Boeing 737 MAX Delivery
The Ryanair Group has expanded its Boeing 737 MAX 8-200 fleet to 196 aircraft following the delivery of seven new units in September. Three of the latest arrivals, EI-ILA (MSN 62395), EI-ILB (MSN 67121), and EI-ILC (MSN 62396), were ferried directly from Boeing Field to Dublin on September 27, 2025. The milestone reflects Ryanair’s sustained fleet growth and its ongoing investment in high-capacity, fuel-efficient aircraft as part of its long-term strategy to reduce costs and emissions across its European network..
Aircraft Update
EI-ILG Boeing 737-8200 c/n 62397 Ryanair Delivered Boeing Field–Dublin 29/09/25 (Aircraft No. 197)
Ryanair has taken delivery of another Boeing 737-8200, registered EI-ILG (MSN 62397), following its ferry flight from Boeing Field to Dublin on 29 September 2025. This marks the airline’s 197th “Gamechanger” aircraft under the 737 MAX programme. The new addition continues Ryanair’s fleet modernisation drive, offering higher seating capacity, improved fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions. The delivery further strengthens Ryanair’s operational flexibility ahead of the upcoming winter schedule and supports its strategy to maintain one of Europe’s youngest and most sustainable narrowbody fleets.
EI-IKV Boeing 737-8200 c/n 62393 Ryanair Delivered Boeing Field–Dublin 29/09/25 (Aircraft No. 198)
Ryanair has received its 198th Boeing 737-8200, registered EI-IKV (MSN 62393), after completing its delivery flight from Boeing Field to Dublin on 29 September 2025. The latest “Gamechanger” aircraft features improved fuel efficiency, reduced noise footprint, and an optimised cabin layout to accommodate more passengers while lowering per-seat emissions. This delivery reinforces Ryanair’s ongoing commitment to operating an environmentally advanced and cost-effective fleet, enhancing its capacity and sustainability credentials across Europe’s competitive low-cost market.
EI-ILN Boeing 737-8200 c/n 67064 Ryanair Delivered Boeing Field–Dublin 29/09/25 (Aircraft No. 199)
Ryanair has expanded its fleet with the delivery of its 199th Boeing 737-8200, registered EI-ILN (MSN 67064), following a ferry flight from Boeing Field to Dublin on 29 September 2025. The aircraft is part of Ryanair’s “Gamechanger” series, offering enhanced seating capacity, superior fuel efficiency, and lower carbon emissions compared to previous generations. This milestone brings the airline one step closer to its 200th Boeing 737 MAX delivery, underscoring its sustained investment in fleet renewal and commitment to reducing operating costs and environmental impact across its European network.
Global Aviation News
Emirates Marks 15 Years of Operations to Senegal
Emirates is celebrating 15 years of continuous service to Dakar, Senegal, marking a milestone in its contribution to strengthening air connectivity between West Africa and the wider world. Since launching the route in 2010 with an Airbus A340-300, the airline has facilitated seamless travel and trade links between Senegal, the Middle East, and Asia. The service has been instrumental in supporting business ties, particularly for traders accessing Asian markets, and has provided essential connections for religious travel to Mecca for Hajj and Umrah. Over the past decade and a half, Emirates has reinforced its role as a key enabler of economic growth and cultural exchange in the region.
Jeddah Airport Targets 170 Destinations with 76 Airlines
Jeddah Airports Company has outlined ambitious plans to expand King Abdulaziz International Airport’s global network to 170 destinations by 2030, in collaboration with 76 airline partners. The airport handled over 49.1 million passengers in 2024, marking a 14% year-on-year increase in traffic. This growth initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Strategy and Vision 2030, which aim to establish the Kingdom as a leading global aviation hub. By broadening international connectivity and enhancing capacity, Jeddah Airport is set to play a central role in supporting tourism, trade, and the country’s long-term economic diversification goals.
Lufthansa Faces a Long Struggle to Recover Its Competitiveness
Lufthansa Group CEO Carsten Spohr faces mounting challenges as the airline works to restore its competitive edge in an increasingly complex global market. Despite operating from one of the world’s busiest hubs at Frankfurt Airport, Lufthansa continues to contend with high operational costs, market fragmentation, and growing competition from both low-cost European carriers and premium international rivals. While the Group is investing heavily in digital transformation, fleet renewal, and service optimisation, analysts suggest that deep structural reforms will be necessary to regain momentum.
Nigeria Considers Shared Ownership Model Over State-Owned Airline
Nigeria’s aviation stakeholders are backing a new flag carrier model based on shared ownership between the government and private investors, marking a shift from the traditional state-owned airline framework. The proposed structure aims to improve financial sustainability, reduce political interference, and enhance Nigeria’s global aviation presence. This approach follows the collapse of the Nigeria Air project with Ethiopian Airlines and reflects lessons learned from previous attempts to establish a national carrier. By combining public oversight with private sector efficiency, the shared ownership model is seen as a more resilient and commercially viable path for reviving Nigeria’s flag carrier ambitions.
On Air Dining Acquired by Air Culinaire Worldwide
Air Culinaire Worldwide has announced the acquisition of On Air Dining, a renowned inflight catering provider operating from London-Stansted and Farnborough airports. The move strengthens both companies’ presence in the UK and European private aviation markets, expanding their ability to deliver premium catering solutions for business and charter operators. All members of the On Air Dining team will remain in place, ensuring seamless continuity and maintaining the brand’s hallmark standards of quality and service. Recognised for its culinary creativity and bespoke approach, On Air Dining’s integration into Air Culinaire’s global network enhances its capacity to meet the growing demand for exceptional inflight dining experiences across international hubs.
Qantas Debuts A321XLR with Enhanced Comfort and Cabin Efficiency
Qantas has introduced its first Airbus A321XLR, marking a significant step forward in passenger comfort and operational efficiency for the airline. The new aircraft features wider seats, higher ceilings, larger windows, and 60% more luggage space compared to the Boeing 737s it replaces, along with complimentary Wi-Fi for all passengers. As the first Asia-Pacific carrier to operate the A321XLR, Qantas plans to take delivery of a third aircraft by November 2025 and expand the fleet to seven by mid-2026. An additional order of 20 aircraft including 16 equipped with lie-flat Business Class seats will further enhance the airline’s ability to serve transcontinental and Southeast Asian routes with improved comfort, range, and fuel efficiency.
United Airlines’ Starlink-Equipped Boeing 737-800 Gains FAA Certification
United Airlines has received FAA certification for its first Boeing 737-800 fitted with SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet system, paving the way for its inaugural commercial service on 15 October 2025 from Newark/New York. The milestone marks a major step in United’s efforts to modernise inflight connectivity, offering passengers free high-speed Wi-Fi with speeds up to 250 Mbps for streaming, shopping, and gaming. More than half of United’s regional fleet, including Embraer 175s, is already equipped with Starlink, with installations progressing at a rate of 50 aircraft per month. The initiative underscores United’s commitment to enhancing the passenger experience through advanced technology and seamless digital access.
Breeze Airways Secures U.S. Flag Carrier Status Ahead of International Launch
Utah-based Breeze Airways has officially obtained U.S. flag carrier certification, marking a major milestone as it prepares to launch international services in early 2026 to Cancún, Punta Cana, and Montego Bay with Dublin also listed among its future target destinations. The airline will operate these routes from six U.S. airports: Charleston, New Orleans, Norfolk, Providence, Raleigh/Durham, and Tampa. To support this expansion, Breeze will open a new crew base in Raleigh during Q1 2026, creating more than 200 pilot and cabin crew positions. The certification underscores Breeze’s rapid growth under founder David Neeleman’s leadership, as the carrier transitions from a domestic operator to an emerging international player focused on offering affordable, high-quality travel experiences.
Irish Aviation News
Air Canada to Operate Airbus A321XLR on Dublin–Montreal Route in May 2026
Air Canada will deploy its new Airbus A321XLR on the Montreal–Dublin route between 15 and 31 May 2026, operating four times weekly. The aircraft will temporarily replace the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner during this period as part of Air Canada’s fleet optimisation strategy. Flight AC916 will depart Montreal at 20:30 and arrive in Dublin at 07:45 the following morning on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The introduction of the A321XLR, known for its extended range and fuel efficiency, highlights Air Canada’s growing focus on using next-generation narrowbody aircraft for transatlantic services, offering passengers improved comfort and sustainability.
Women in Aviation – Ireland Chapter Hosts Inspiring Networking Event in Limerick
Limerick recently hosted an engaging evening of connection and collaboration as the Women in Aviation Ireland Chapter brought together more than 40 women from across the aviation industry for a dedicated networking event. Sponsored by Aero Inspection, a leading provider of aircraft technical services, the event created an empowering platform for aviation professionals to share insights, experiences, and career opportunities. Attendees included pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers, leasing professionals, and students all united by a shared passion for aviation. Among the guests was Caitriona Pearl, a recent scholarship recipient through Women in Aviation, symbolising the organisation’s ongoing commitment to fostering the next generation of women leaders in the sector.
Craft, Skill & Power: GA Enthusiasts Gather for Engine and Wooden Airframe Workshops
Aviation craftsmanship and technical expertise were in the spotlight as Midland Aviation hosted a two-part workshop series dedicated to piston engines and wooden airframe construction. The event brought together general aviation enthusiasts, pilots, restorers, and homebuilders passionate about preserving traditional aircraft maintenance and restoration techniques. Supported by the Irish Light Aviation Society (ILAS), the workshops provided hands-on learning opportunities and celebrated Ireland’s rich aviation heritage, reinforcing the value of mechanical skill and artisanal precision in the upkeep of classic light aircraft.
Fáilte Ireland Flags Dublin Airport Cap and Value Concerns as Key Tourism Risks
Fáilte Ireland has identified ongoing uncertainty surrounding Dublin Airport’s passenger cap, rising travel costs, and a perceived decline in U.S. visitor sentiment as major risks to Ireland’s tourism sector. In its latest corporate risk register, the tourism authority highlighted that the ambiguity around passenger limits at the country’s primary international gateway could constrain inbound travel and economic growth. The report also underscored the importance of promoting domestic tourism to offset potential declines in international arrivals while ensuring Ireland remains a welcoming and competitively priced destination for global visitors.
‘Filed for Bankruptcy. Cancel Flight.’ – PLAY’s Sudden Collapse Leaves Dublin Passengers Stranded
Passengers preparing to board PLAY flight OG 881 from Dublin to Keflavik were stunned to receive a short email reading, “Filed for bankruptcy. Cancel flight.” Within moments, operations came to a halt, the crew stranded, the aircraft TF-PPD grounded, and the airline’s future extinguished. Four of PLAY’s six Airbus A320s were leased out of Dublin, underscoring Ireland’s close ties to the carrier’s operations. The Icelandic low-cost airline, which had sought to rekindle the nation’s budget aviation ambitions following WOW Air’s 2019 collapse, succumbed abruptly to financial pressures, marking a sudden and sobering end to its brief yet ambitious run.
Reliving the History of the Ulster Airshow – Newtownards
Aviation enthusiasts can now revisit decades of Northern Ireland’s airshow heritage thanks to a newly released YouTube playlist by “Old School NI (VHS Memories).” The collection features 14 restored VHS videos spanning from 1989 to 2007, capturing highlights from the Ulster Airshow at Newtownards. Showcasing a diverse lineup of aircraft and performances, the footage offers nearly 17 hours of nostalgic viewing. The playlist celebrates the event’s legacy as one of Northern Ireland’s most beloved aviation gatherings, preserving a rich visual history for new generations of enthusiasts to enjoy.
Qatar Airways Expands U.S. and South American Connectivity via Aer Lingus and LEVEL
Qatar Airways has strengthened its transatlantic network through expanded partnerships with Aer Lingus and LEVEL, enhancing connectivity between Doha and key destinations across the United States and South America. Through Dublin, passengers now gain access to major U.S. cities including Boston, Cleveland, Indianapolis, Orlando, and Washington Dulles, with Las Vegas to be added soon. Similarly, connections via Barcelona extend to major North and South American hubs such as Los Angeles, New York, Buenos Aires, and future services to Santiago. The move reinforces Qatar Airways’ strategy of deepening cooperation within the International Airlines Group (IAG) to deliver seamless, global travel options.
Fexco Reports Steady Profits Amid Revenue Growth and UK Expansion
Kerry-based travel technology and financial services firm Fexco reported stable operating profits of €22.4 million last year, despite an 8% rise in income to €193 million. The company, founded in 1981 by Brian McCarthy, continues to diversify its portfolio across foreign exchange, payments, business advisory, property management, and sustainability technology. In a major expansion move, Fexco recently acquired Sainsbury’s Travel Money unit, which manages 220 in-store currency exchange locations and an online platform across England. The transition, set for early next year, will significantly strengthen Fexco’s presence in the UK retail and travel money market.
Tweet Picks
@LPL_Airport This week Ryanair will carry its 350,000th passenger between Liverpool and theLithuanian city of Kaunas. The route first started in 2006 and recommenced during 2021 after a break.
@LuxuryTravelled .@easyJet has brought Home Screen widgets and Live Activities to the iPhone App.Flight details will show 48 hours before departure in the widget - Live Activities really helpful when at theairport.
@OAG_Aviation This chart shows the dominance of the 'big four' in the US market - there are 83m scheduled seats between fourth placed United Airlines and Alaska Airlines in 5th.
@simonasbartkus Ryanair to resume flights from Riga to Aarhus, Cologne, and Memmingen as seasonal summer flights in 2026. However, routes to Edinburgh, Gdańsk, Gothenburg, and Paris do not appear in the Summer 2026 schedule.
Video Picks
Norfolk International Airport Adds Nonstop Flight to Cancún
This video highlights the launch of Norfolk International Airport’s new nonstop service to Cancún, Mexico, expanding international travel options for passengers in Virginia. Airport officials and airline representatives discuss how the route enhances regional tourism, boosts connectivity, and supports local economic growth. The segment also captures traveller excitement ahead of the inaugural flight and provides insights into the service schedule, aircraft type, and the broader strategy to grow Norfolk’s network of leisure destinations.
Paul Griffiths on How Dubai Is Redefining Global Aviation
In this engaging interview, Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths explores how Dubai continues to lead the transformation of global aviation through innovation, strategic planning, and world-class infrastructure. He discusses the city’s long-term vision to maintain its position as a premier international hub, highlighting investments in technology, sustainability, and passenger experience. Griffiths also sheds light on Dubai’s evolving role in connecting East and West, post-pandemic recovery initiatives, and upcoming airport projects aimed at setting new benchmarks for efficiency and service excellence.
Some Companies Are Dropping Fees for Solo Travellers
This feature explores the growing trend of travel companies eliminating or reducing single-supplement fees, making trips more accessible and affordable for solo travellers. Industry experts discuss how tour operators, cruise lines, and hotels are adapting to meet the rising demand for independent travel experiences post-pandemic. The segment also highlights how this shift reflects broader changes in traveller behaviour—prioritising flexibility, self-discovery, and personalised experiences—while showcasing examples of brands leading the movement toward more inclusive and equitable pricing models.
Acumen’s Take
The global aviation landscape continues to demonstrate steady progress, characterised by renewed fleet expansion, evolving partnerships, and technology-led efficiency improvements. Airlines and airports are increasingly aligning their strategies with sustainability goals, leveraging innovation to enhance passenger experience and operational resilience. While challenges remain from economic pressures to regulatory complexities, industry momentum points toward a future defined by smarter, greener, and more interconnected air travel. For Ireland, these global shifts also reinforce its growing influence as a strategic hub for aviation operations, leasing, and maintenance.
