11 Jul 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 11th 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
SU-BWE Airbus A320-214 Delivered to Air Cairo
Airbus A320-214, bearing manufacturer serial number 6500 and now registered as SU-BWE, was delivered to Air Cairo on 14th June 2025 in Cairo. The aircraft, previously operating as EI-HNU, supports the carrier’s fleet expansion as it enhances connectivity within Egypt and across its regional network.
Acumen’s Take
Air Cairo’s continued fleet development reflects growing intra-regional demand and the strategic role of narrowbody aircraft in Middle Eastern and North African route networks. For lessors, placements with emerging carriers like Air Cairo highlight opportunities in markets where tourism recovery and regional mobility are driving narrowbody demand.
SU-NMK Airbus A320-214 Delivered to Nesma Airlines
Airbus A320-214, manufacturer serial number 5995 and now registered as SU-NMK, was delivered to Nesma Airlines on 22nd June 2025 in Cairo. The aircraft, formerly registered as 2-GCJK, strengthens Nesma’s narrowbody fleet as the airline continues to build regional presence and improve service frequency across key domestic and international routes.
Acumen’s Take
This delivery underscores Nesma Airlines’ steady growth and the broader recovery of Egypt’s aviation sector. For lessors and asset managers, such transactions highlight the enduring relevance of the A320ceo in cost-sensitive markets, where operational reliability and readily available support infrastructure remain key decision drivers.
Global Aviation News
Qatar Airways and Philippine Airlines Launch Daily Manila–Doha Flights
Qatar Airways and Philippine Airlines (PAL) have inaugurated a daily nonstop codeshare service between Manila and Doha, formalising a new strategic partnership between the two carriers. The collaboration was celebrated at Hamad International Airport, with senior executives marking the start of expanded connectivity and cooperation.
Acumen’s Take
This partnership strengthens bilateral air links between the Gulf and Southeast Asia, boosting both leisure and labour traffic flows. For lessors and network planners, such joint ventures highlight growing demand on high-density long-haul routes and reinforce the strategic value of alliances in expanding market reach without deploying additional fleet capacity.
Qantas’ First A321XLR En Route to Sydney
Qantas’ inaugural Airbus A321XLR, registered VH-OGA and named Great Ocean Road, has departed Airbus’ Hamburg facility and is set to arrive in Sydney on 2nd July. This marks a major milestone in Qantas’ narrowbody fleet modernisation, with the long-range A321XLR enabling new point-to-point routes and enhanced fuel efficiency across medium-haul operations.
Acumen’s Take
The arrival of Qantas’ first A321XLR signals a pivotal shift in narrowbody capability, blending range with single-aisle economics. For lessors and asset managers, the XLR opens new deployment strategies for transcontinental and underserved long-thin markets, accelerating fleet flexibility and reshaping traditional network planning across the Asia-Pacific region.
SAS Reconnects with Greenland as First Flight to Nuuk Takes Off
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has officially resumed direct flights from Copenhagen to Nuuk, Greenland, reviving a long-dormant route last operated over 20 years ago. The new service enhances connectivity between Greenland and mainland Europe, while further solidifying Copenhagen’s position as Scandinavia’s premier international gateway.
Acumen’s Take
SAS’s return to Nuuk reflects growing interest in Arctic and remote region connectivity, driven by both strategic geopolitical interest and tourism growth. For lessors and network strategists, such routes present unique operational and environmental challenges, but also unlock new demand corridors for narrowbody aircraft capable of efficient cold-weather performance and moderate-range deployment.
Saudia Cargo and China Cargo Airlines Sign Strategic Air Freight Pact
Saudia Cargo and China Cargo Airlines have entered a strategic cooperation agreement to strengthen air freight connectivity between Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. The partnership aims to increase cargo frequencies between Riyadh and Shanghai and expand services to key European destinations, enhancing the efficiency of cross-continental supply chains.
Acumen’s Take
This alliance reflects the growing importance of multi-regional freight corridors, especially as demand for diversified logistics routes intensifies. For lessors and cargo operators, such partnerships signal strong momentum in the dedicated freighter space, reinforcing the need for fleet availability, conversion slots, and hub-to-hub alignment across key economic zones.
Vietnam Airlines Launches First-Ever Nonstop Hanoi–Milan Route
Vietnam Airlines has inaugurated a landmark nonstop service between Hanoi and Milan—its ninth direct route to Europe and the first-ever direct air link between Vietnam and Italy. Operating three times weekly with Boeing 787 aircraft, the 12-hour flight strengthens Vietnam’s international reach and deepens trade and tourism ties with Southern Europe.
Acumen’s Take
The Hanoi–Milan route reflects Vietnam Airlines’ strategic focus on expanding its European footprint, targeting both diaspora and tourism-driven demand. For lessors and fleet planners, long-haul routes like this reinforce the role of widebodies such as the 787 in enabling direct intercontinental links from emerging Southeast Asian markets to secondary European hubs.
Irish Aviation News
CSO Releases Aviation Statistics for Q1 2025
The Central Statistics Office (CSO) has published its Aviation Statistics for Q1 2025, revealing that Irish airports handled over 7.6 million passengers during the quarter—an increase of 8.3% compared to Q1 2024. Dublin Airport remained the busiest, accounting for 87% of total passenger traffic, followed by Cork and Shannon. Freight handled also saw a modest increase, totalling over 39,000 tonnes.
Acumen’s Take
The Q1 figures point to continued recovery and resilience in Ireland’s aviation sector, with strong year-on-year passenger growth and steady cargo performance. For lessors, operators, and investors, the data reinforces Ireland’s critical role as both a passenger hub and leasing capital—underscoring the importance of infrastructure scaling and policy support to sustain momentum.
‘Disputes and conflicts worldwide should not endanger civil aviation’ – Willie Walsh at IATA Congress in Delhi
At the IATA Congress in Delhi, Willie Walsh, Director General of IATA, strongly urged global leaders to ensure that civil aviation remains protected amid rising geopolitical tensions. He stressed that ongoing conflicts should not compromise the safety, neutrality, or operational freedom of commercial air transport, highlighting the industry's collective appeal to the UN Security Council for stronger safeguards.
Acumen’s Take
Walsh’s message reinforces the critical need for preserving open and safe airspace regardless of geopolitical strife. For lessors, airlines, and investors, such stability is vital to protect global fleet deployment, maintain air traffic flow, and mitigate risks that could disrupt route networks and asset values.
Dublin airport tunnel clear to go ahead after Ryanair legal bid fails
The Supreme Court has dismissed Ryanair’s appeal against the proposed tunnel project at Dublin Airport, paving the way for construction to proceed. The €200 million underpass, set to take over three years to complete, will facilitate landside vehicle movement beneath the airfield, aiming to ease traffic congestion and improve operational flow.
Acumen’s Take
The green light for the tunnel project reflects a significant infrastructure investment at Dublin Airport, one that will enhance long-term ground connectivity. While Ryanair’s opposition highlights concerns over cost and disruption, for airport planners and stakeholders, the upgrade is a strategic move to future-proof the airport’s capacity and operational efficiency—critical as passenger volumes continue to climb.
ECT Aviation Acquires First Britten-Norman BN2T-4S Islander
Dublin-based ECT Aviation has added the Britten-Norman BN2T-4S Islander to its fleet, marking the company’s entry into dedicated cargo operations. The aircraft will be used on high-frequency freight routes connecting Lyon Saint Exupéry Airport with strategic locations across North Africa, strengthening ECT’s regional logistics presence.
Acumen’s Take
ECT Aviation’s acquisition highlights the growing relevance of small, versatile freighters in niche regional cargo markets. For operators and lessors, this move underscores the demand for right-sized aircraft that can efficiently serve thinner routes—particularly in cross-Mediterranean logistics corridors where flexibility, turnaround speed, and low operating costs are critical.
Frazer hails major aviation report that clears Derry for take-off
A newly published aviation report has identified Derry as a strategic aerospace hub, a development praised by City of Derry Airport Managing Director Steve Frazer. He described the findings as a major endorsement of the region’s potential to support future growth in aviation services, connectivity, and infrastructure investment—particularly for the North West of Ireland.
Acumen’s Take
The recognition of Derry as a strategic hub reflects a broader shift toward decentralising aviation growth across regions. For operators, lessors, and policymakers, this presents an opportunity to tap into underutilised infrastructure, foster regional connectivity, and promote balanced economic development—particularly as demand rises for secondary airport capacity and resilient logistics networks.
HRA Completes Delivery of Two MAX 8 to GOL
High Ridge Aviation (HRA) has successfully delivered two Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft to GOL Linhas Aéreas under a purchase-leaseback (PLB) agreement. This milestone marks the first transaction between HRA and the Brazilian low-cost carrier, establishing a new leasing relationship focused on fleet modernisation and operational efficiency.
Acumen’s Take
The deal highlights the continued appeal of the 737 MAX 8 for fuel-conscious carriers in Latin America and reflects growing momentum for purchase-leaseback structures as a flexible financing tool. For lessors and asset managers, this transaction showcases the opportunities for market entry and portfolio growth through strategic partnerships with high-utilisation LCCs.
If a small airline like Fiji Airways can join Oneworld, why can’t Aer Lingus?
Fiji Airways, with a modest fleet of just 14 aircraft, officially joined the Oneworld alliance in March 2025—prompting renewed scrutiny over why Aer Lingus has yet to rejoin. Once a member until its departure in 2007, Aer Lingus previously cited integration costs and limited perceived benefit. However, the successful entry of smaller carriers like Fiji Airways now raises questions about the strategic hesitation from Ireland’s flag carrier.
Acumen’s Take
With growing alliance participation from boutique and regional carriers, Aer Lingus’s absence from Oneworld feels increasingly conspicuous. For lessors and network strategists, alliance membership significantly enhances interconnectivity, codeshare viability, and long-haul competitiveness—particularly for transatlantic routes. Rejoining could strengthen Aer Lingus’s strategic positioning and unlock greater fleet and network synergies.
Ryanair slams Europe’s worst air traffic control providers, urges EU reform
Ryanair has issued a strong call for reform of Europe’s national air traffic control (ATC) systems, following the release of its “June League of Delays” report. The airline criticised persistently underperforming ATC providers and urged EU authorities to take immediate action to address chronic inefficiencies that are disrupting flight schedules and affecting millions of passengers.
Acumen’s Take
Ryanair’s push underscores growing frustration across the industry with fragmented and inconsistent ATC performance in Europe. For airlines and lessors, systemic delays erode schedule reliability, increase operational costs, and complicate aircraft utilisation strategies. Meaningful EU-led reform would be a critical step toward stabilising airspace management and unlocking network efficiency across the region.
Tweet Picks
@business Turkish drone maker Baykar Technologies acquires the business complexes of Italy’s Piaggio Aerospace as it moves to expand aircraft production and enter the business jet market
@Gatwick_Airport Our Northern Runway plans will unlock £2 billion in tourism-driven economic benefits for the UK, strengthening local communities and supporting national growth. This is one of the UK’s biggest privately funded infrastructure opportunities. More visitors, more growth.
@skift India’s monthly international travel spending is crossing $1 billion consistently. As Indian travelers prioritize experiences and loosen purse strings, destinations worldwide are racing to capture this high-value market.
@skift Turkish Airlines already flies to more countries than any other airline, but it isn’t stopping there. “We aim to reach a fleet of over 810 aircraft by 2033,” Chairman Ahmet Bolat told Skift.
Video Picks
Emirates SVP Highlights New Far East Route and Growth Potential
In this video, Emirates’ Senior Vice President for Commercial Operations – Far East discusses the airline’s latest route expansion in Asia and the broader opportunities it unlocks. The new service reflects Emirates’ strategy to deepen its presence in high-growth Far East markets, tapping into rising demand for both leisure and business travel.
Acumen’s Take
Emirates’ continued expansion in Asia reinforces the region’s importance as a growth engine for global aviation. For lessors, OEMs, and network planners, such developments signal increased demand for widebody lift and strategic fleet deployment across Asia-Pacific—driven by strong outbound and connecting traffic through key Middle Eastern hubs.
Landing the Deal – A New Era for Airline Consolidation?
This panel discussion explores the current wave of airline consolidation, examining how market pressures, regulatory shifts, and post-pandemic recovery trends are reshaping the global aviation landscape. Industry leaders debate the strategic rationale behind mergers and acquisitions, their impact on competition, and the balance between scale and service.
Acumen’s Take
As consolidation accelerates across regions, the structure of global aviation is being redefined. For lessors and asset managers, M&A activity introduces both opportunity and complexity—potentially altering fleet strategies, lease renegotiations, and asset redeployment. Staying agile and proactive in evaluating partner risk and market exposure will be key in navigating this evolving terrain.
Pan American Flight "Yankee Clipper 11" Makes Its Return to Shannon
This video captures the emotional return of Pan American Flight "Yankee Clipper 11" to Shannon Airport, honouring the legacy of transatlantic aviation. The commemorative flight, rich in historical significance, celebrates Shannon’s pioneering role in early U.S.–Europe air travel and its continued importance as a symbolic and operational transatlantic gateway.
Acumen’s Take
Events like the return of "Yankee Clipper 11" highlight the enduring legacy and strategic relevance of Shannon Airport in global aviation history. For the industry, such milestones serve as powerful reminders of regional airports’ contributions—not just in heritage, but also in ongoing connectivity and capacity as transatlantic demand evolves.
