11 Aug 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 11th August 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
Buzz Adds 20th Boeing 737 MAX 8-200 "Gamechanger" to Fleet
Buzz, the Polish subsidiary of the Ryanair Group, has officially welcomed its 20th Boeing 737 MAX 8-200 aircraft, registered SP-RZT. The delivery marks the Group’s 182nd MAX overall, reinforcing Ryanair’s commitment to expanding its next-generation, fuel-efficient fleet. The aircraft completed its ferry flight from Boeing Field in Seattle to Dublin on 30 August, arriving at 13:27 local time. Branded as the “Gamechanger” for its superior fuel efficiency and increased seating capacity, the MAX 8-200 continues to play a pivotal role in Ryanair’s growth and sustainability strategy.
CityJet Flies Forward with CRJ900 Addition
Irish ACMI specialist CityJet has expanded its fleet with the addition of a Mitsubishi CRJ-900LR, registered EI-HSC (MSN 15088), delivered on 17 July 2025. The aircraft will operate under a wet lease agreement for SAS Scandinavian Airlines and is set to be based at Copenhagen Airport (CPH). This move strengthens CityJet’s partnership with SAS and reinforces its position as a key regional capacity provider in the Nordic market.
Discover Airlines Launches Frankfurt–Shannon Route in 2026 Summer Expansion
Discover Airlines has announced a significant summer 2026 network expansion, featuring 40 short- and medium-haul routes from Frankfurt and Munich operated by Airbus A320-200 aircraft. Among the highlights is the launch of direct services to Shannon Airport—the carrier’s first-ever Irish destination. The new Frankfurt–Shannon route will operate twice weekly, on Thursdays and Saturdays, from 4 April to 26 October 2026, boosting connectivity between western Ireland and mainland Europe just in time for the peak travel season.
EI-GEY Airbus A330-302 Ferried to Perpignan
Aer Lingus Airbus A330-302, registered EI-GEY (MSN 441) and named St. Benan / Beineón, was ferried from Dublin to Perpignan on 14 July 2025. Operating as flight EIN2512, the widebody aircraft touched down in France at 12:34 local time, as reported by Flightradar24. Before the ferry, EI-GEY was primarily active on the Dublin–Malaga route between 3–13 July, with a single rotation on the Dublin–Paris CDG sector on 4 July.
Aircraft Update
B-32MK Airbus A320-214 Delivered to GX Airlines
GX Airlines has taken delivery of an Airbus A320-214, registered B-32MK (MSN 7071), on 21 July 2025. The aircraft, previously operating under registration OE-IMO, was delivered to its new base in Nanning, China. This addition supports GX Airlines’ continued expansion across domestic and regional routes in the Asia-Pacific region, enhancing operational flexibility with its proven A320 fleet.
CC-BHQ Airbus A320neo Delivered to LATAM Chile
LATAM Airlines Chile has welcomed an Airbus A320-271N, registered CC-BHQ (MSN 8771), into its fleet on 2 August 2025. The aircraft, previously operating as VT-IZR, was delivered to Santiago, Chile, as part of LATAM’s ongoing fleet modernisation efforts. Equipped with new-generation engines, the A320neo offers improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, aligning with LATAM’s sustainability goals and regional network growth strategy.
Global Aviation News
Air France-KLM Halts Talks with Air Europa, Eyes TAP Portugal and SAS
Air France-KLM has officially ended negotiations to acquire a stake in Air Europa, citing the inability to secure a majority position as the decisive factor. CEO Benjamin Smith stated that majority control was essential to the group’s strategic aims, and without it, the deal held limited value. In the wake of this decision, Air France-KLM is turning its attention to other European opportunities, notably expressing renewed interest in investing in TAP Air Portugal. Additionally, the group has initiated proceedings to acquire a majority stake in SAS, underlining its ambition to consolidate its position in Europe’s competitive aviation market.
Pricing of New Aircraft Still Not Attractive
Air Lease Corporation has cancelled its order for seven Airbus A350 freighters, citing unattractive pricing and limited viable alternatives in the current market. CEO John Plueger stated the cancellation frees up over $1 billion in forward capital expenditure, which the company can now redirect elsewhere. However, Plueger noted that despite this flexibility, the market offers few compelling investment opportunities at present. The move reflects broader industry concerns over high aircraft pricing and the ongoing challenge for lessors to balance long-term value with capital efficiency.
A321neo Dominates Airbus July Deliveries
Airbus reported a robust delivery performance for July 2025, with the A321neo taking centre stage. Of the 67 aircraft delivered, 35 were A321neos—nearly double the number of A320neos handed over (19)—highlighting the growing preference among airlines for higher-capacity, fuel-efficient narrowbodies. The total includes 54 A320neo family aircraft, underscoring the A321neo’s rising dominance in Airbus’ narrowbody portfolio. July’s output also slightly surpassed June’s figures, indicating sustained production momentum amid strong demand.
Boeing Delivers 280 Aircraft in H1—Highest Since 2018
Boeing has reported its strongest first-half performance since 2018, delivering 280 aircraft in H1 2025. The second quarter alone saw 150 commercial aircraft handed over, including 13 777 Freighters and five 767-300 Freighters. The uptick follows FAA approval of the company’s revised production plan, with CEO Kelly Ortberg highlighting improved operational stability and execution. This milestone signals a continued recovery for Boeing, particularly in the widebody and freighter segments, and strengthens its position in meeting surging post-pandemic demand.
EasyJet Eyes Entry into Heathrow Operations
EasyJet has expressed interest in launching services from London Heathrow, contingent on the construction of the airport’s proposed third runway. While traditionally focused on low-cost, point-to-point travel from secondary airports, a move into Heathrow would mark a significant development in EasyJet’s network ambitions and competitive positioning.
Emirates’ Airbus A350 Makes Inaugural Arrival in Bologna
Emirates has celebrated the arrival of its next-generation Airbus A350 at Bologna’s Guglielmo Marconi Airport, marking a major milestone in the carrier’s European expansion. The inaugural flight on 21 June was greeted with a traditional Water Cannon Salute, followed by a formal ceremony attended by dignitaries, Emirates executives, and media. Bologna now becomes the first city in Italy—and among the first ten globally—to receive the Emirates A350, reinforcing the strategic importance of the Dubai–Emilia-Romagna route and enhancing premium connectivity for both business and leisure travellers.
Etihad's Strategic Partnerships Expand Abu Dhabi's Global Reach
Etihad Airways is deepening its global aviation influence through a growing network of strategic partnerships designed to bring more international airlines—and travellers—to Abu Dhabi. With over 40 codeshare agreements in place, Etihad now connects passengers to over 100 destinations directly and more than 300 via its partners. These alliances are instrumental in transforming Abu Dhabi into a premier global hub, offering seamless connectivity and enhanced travel options for millions of passengers worldwide. The initiative underscores Etihad’s commitment to shaping the emirate’s aviation ecosystem and bolstering its position as a key gateway city.
Vueling to Modernise Fleet with 50 Boeing 737 MAX Aircraft
Vueling, the low-cost arm of International Airlines Group (IAG), is set to modernise its fleet with 50 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, as confirmed by IAG. The order—initially placed in 2022—comprises 25 high-capacity MAX 8-200s and 25 MAX 10s, with deliveries slated to begin in late 2026. This marks a strategic pivot for Vueling, which currently operates a 143-strong all-Airbus A320 family fleet. The move supports IAG’s broader ambition to strengthen Vueling’s ultra-competitive cost base and expand high-density short-haul operations in line with low-cost market leaders like Ryanair.
Virgin Atlantic Reports Smooth Technical Transition to A330neo
Virgin Atlantic has confirmed a seamless technical transition from its ageing Airbus A330-300 fleet to the more fuel-efficient A330-900neo. The airline highlighted that operational commonality and existing experience with the Airbus A330 family significantly streamlined the integration process. The phase-out and replacement programme has progressed with minimal disruption, demonstrating the operational benefits of maintaining fleet type continuity while upgrading to next-generation aircraft. This transition supports Virgin’s broader sustainability goals through improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
Irish Aviation News
Acumen Aviation Hosts OPTIC Platform to Expand SPARTA’s Capabilities
Acumen Aviation has announced the integration of SellUe’s OPTIC platform into its flagship asset management solution, SPARTA. This strategic move enhances SPARTA’s lifecycle coverage by incorporating digital teardown and consignment capabilities. OPTIC, known for its predictive teardown insights and structured reporting, empowers users with greater transparency and control during the asset retirement phase. By hosting OPTIC, Acumen reinforces its commitment to delivering end-to-end digital asset management solutions for lessors, MROs, and other aviation stakeholders.
Aer Lingus Appoints Nessa McNeela as New CFO
Aer Lingus has named Nessa McNeela as its new Chief Financial Officer, drawing on her extensive financial and leadership experience within the International Airlines Group (IAG). McNeela previously held senior roles at IAG Cargo and British Airways, and began her career with KPMG in Dublin, followed by a decade-long tenure in Australia. An alumna of University College Dublin and Université de Toulouse 1, she brings a strong academic foundation and international perspective. Her appointment underscores Aer Lingus’s focus on strengthening its financial strategy as it continues its post-pandemic growth trajectory.
AvCon 2025 to Draw 8,000 Secondary Scholars to Casement Aerodrome
AvCon 2025, set for October at Casement Aerodrome in Baldonnel, is poised to become Ireland’s largest aviation-focused student event. Expected to welcome over 8,000 students aged 15–25 on-site and another 14,000 online via TYHub.ie, the event will spotlight career paths in aviation, from engineering and piloting to air traffic control. Organised exclusively for registered attendees and invited industry or educational stakeholders, AvCon 2025 aims to close the skills gap and deepen industry engagement with future talent. Economic development and sector growth remain key themes for discussion at this milestone gathering.
DroneTech Insights: Manna’s Bobby Healy Breaks Down the Economics of Scalable Drone Delivery
Bobby Healy of Manna shared how the company now turns a profit on every drone flight—even for a single coffee. Speaking on The Vertical Space, he broke down the unit economics that make drone delivery viable, highlighted the shift from early assumptions to real-world success, and argued for drones as the future of last-mile logistics. Healy also touched on broader air mobility, pushing for investment beyond just delivery.
CAVU and Ryanair Extend Digital Partnership for Seamless Travel
CAVU has signed a multi-year extension of its partnership with Ryanair to further streamline the airline’s passenger experience through tech-led solutions. The renewed agreement consolidates CAVU’s existing services under one strategic contract, reinforcing its role as a key digital infrastructure partner. This collaboration aims to enhance operational efficiency, improve customer journeys, and unlock new revenue opportunities across Ryanair’s expansive European network.
Wizz Air Retreats from Abu Dhabi Amid Strategic Overhaul; Ryanair CEO Predicts Limited Lifespan
Wizz Air has confirmed its withdrawal from Abu Dhabi, signalling a significant retreat from its previous Middle East growth ambitions. The move reflects a broader strategic pivot as the airline recalibrates its network amid operational challenges. Meanwhile, Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has made headlines by claiming Wizz Air may not remain independent for more than 3–5 years, hinting at possible consolidation within the European low-cost carrier market.
Michael O’Leary Dismisses Dublin Metrolink as Costly and Unnecessary
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has publicly criticised the proposed MetroLink rail project connecting Dublin city centre to the airport, claiming it will be massively over budget and underused. Speaking on RTÉ Radio 1, O’Leary argued that very few people will opt for the service, asserting that most airport travellers prefer buses, taxis, or private vehicles. He labelled the project a poor use of taxpayer funds and urged the government to reassess its transport priorities.
Planning Ruling on Dublin Airport Ramps Raises Concerns
The recent planning decision regarding the removal of unused spiral car ramps at Dublin Airport’s Terminal 1 has drawn criticism for sending the wrong message about progress and modernisation. With the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) seeking to streamline infrastructure and improve aesthetics, the refusal adds to mounting frustrations amid ongoing disputes over passenger caps and night flight restrictions. Critics argue that the decision reflects an overly rigid approach to planning, potentially hindering efforts to future-proof the airport.
Tweet Picks
X Picks:
@DXBMediaOffice Dubai welcomes 9.88 million international overnight visitors in the first half of 2025 – a 6% increase compared to the same period in 2024, according to data published by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.
@skift Wyndham Expects Pressures Hitting Budget Travelers to Lift. "Ballotti said the RevPAR decline of 2.3% in the quarter was an improvement from the 2.9% drop in March. The company maintained its full-year RevPAR guidance of down 2% to up 1%"
@skift Wizz Air to Slash A321XLR Order and Focus on ‘Benign Markets’. "European ultra low-cost carrier Wizz Air plans to cut its order for Airbus A321XLR jets by more than 70%, raising doubts about the long-range aircraft’s fit with its business model."
@Vinamralongani The first line fit B787-9 for @RiyadhAir is now being assembled at @Boeing's facility in Charleston, South Carolina. All variants of the B787 (-8, -9 and -10) are assembled exclusively at this facility. #AvGeek.
Video Picks
Boeing CEO: Trade Deal Orders Strengthen Backlog
In this video, Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun discusses the positive impact of recent trade agreement-related aircraft orders on the company’s commercial backlog. Calhoun highlights how these deals—often linked to diplomatic or bilateral agreements—are providing a much-needed boost to Boeing’s long-term order book. He also emphasises their strategic value in stabilising production schedules, supporting global supplier networks, and enhancing Boeing’s competitive position in key international markets.
Booking Holdings CEO on Q2 Results: Travel Remains a Top Priority
In this video, Booking Holdings CEO Glenn Fogel shares insights from the company’s Q2 2025 earnings, highlighting that consumer demand for travel remains remarkably strong. Fogel underscores that, despite economic uncertainties, people continue to prioritise travel experiences—especially international and leisure travel. He points to record gross bookings and sustained interest in flexible and premium options as indicators of a resilient global travel appetite, with Booking.com and other platforms benefiting from this enduring trend.
Flyadeal CEO on Passenger Growth Momentum
In this video, Flyadeal CEO Steven Greenway discusses the airline’s rapid passenger growth and the factors driving its momentum. As one of Saudi Arabia’s leading low-cost carriers, Flyadeal is benefiting from strong domestic demand, strategic fleet expansion, and improved digital engagement. Greenway highlights how the airline’s simplified fare structure and increasing operational scale are helping meet Vision 2030 goals by enhancing connectivity across the Kingdom and the region.
Acumen’s Take
The aviation sector continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience and strategic agility in Q3 2025. From fleet modernisation efforts to renewed digital partnerships and shifting network strategies, stakeholders are clearly focused on long-term efficiency, sustainability, and market consolidation. The growth in aircraft deliveries, coupled with renewed investor interest and digital innovation, indicates strong post-pandemic momentum. However, regulatory hurdles and infrastructure constraints—particularly in Europe—remain critical bottlenecks. For lessors, OEMs, and operators alike, agility in capital deployment and ecosystem collaboration will define success in the quarters ahead.
