11 Nov 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 11th November 2025
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IrishAero News
CityJet Phases Out EI-FPU CRJ900
CityJet has ferried its Mitsubishi CRJ-900LR, registered EI-FPU (msn 15439) and named Svior Viking, from Valencia (VLC) to Dayton International Airport (DAY) between 28 and 30 October 2025. The aircraft, now bound for PSA Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group, will enter service in the U.S. as N616NN under the American Eagle brand. The repositioning flight routed via Keflavik, Goose Bay, and Toronto, marking another phase in CityJet’s gradual phase-out of its CRJ900 fleet. EI-FPU is one of eight former CityJet aircraft transitioning to PSA Airlines, strengthening its regional U.S. operations.
Flydubai Receives Latest 737 MAX via Shannon
Flydubai has taken delivery of its eleventh Boeing 737 MAX 8, registered A6-FPH (msn 61037), following its ferry flight from Boeing Field (BFI) to Shannon (SNN) on 29 October and onward to Dubai International (DXB) the next day. The delivery, routed through Shannon, highlights Ireland’s ongoing role in aircraft delivery logistics. Alongside the new addition to its fleet, Flydubai announced seven new interline partnerships, expanding its network reach to over 40 global partners. These agreements enhance connectivity across Europe through Aegean Airlines and ITA Airways, and to Asia via Myanmar Airways International, Air China, China Eastern, Hainan Airlines, and Sichuan Airlines.
Stellaer Registers Ireland’s First Pilatus PC-24
Stellaer 212, based at Dublin Weston Airport, has achieved a notable milestone by registering Ireland’s first Pilatus PC-24, marking an exciting addition to the nation’s business aviation sector. The aircraft, registered EJ-MACK, completed its maiden flight on 21 October from the Pilatus production facility in Buochs, Switzerland, routing via Shannon before arriving at Dublin Weston Airport at 14:41 local time. Dubbed the “Super Versatile Jet,” the twin-engine PC-24 combines turboprop efficiency with light-jet performance, boasting a spacious cabin and the ability to operate from short and even unpaved runways—offering unparalleled flexibility for operators and clients across Europe..
Aircraft Update
HS-TWD Boeing 787-9 Delivered to Thai International
Thai International Airways has taken delivery of a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, registered HS-TWD (msn 62725), following its ferry flight to Bangkok on 31 October 2025. Previously registered as VT-TSQ, the aircraft joins Thai’s long-haul fleet, supporting the airline’s network expansion and fleet modernisation strategy. The addition of this fuel-efficient widebody enhances Thai International’s operational flexibility and aligns with its broader efforts to optimise capacity and reduce emissions across key international routes.
HS-XTR Airbus A330-343 Delivered to Thai AirAsia
Thai AirAsia has taken delivery of an Airbus A330-343, registered HS-XTR (msn 1745), which arrived in Bangkok on 4 November 2025 after being transferred from its previous registration HZ-NE22. The widebody aircraft strengthens Thai AirAsia’s growing medium- and long-haul operations, enhancing capacity on high-demand regional routes. The addition of HS-XTR reflects the airline’s ongoing expansion strategy and commitment to deploying more efficient, high-capacity aircraft to meet increasing passenger demand across Asia.
Global Aviation News
Boeing Nears Milestone 200th 737-800BCF Conversion
Boeing is closing in on the 200th delivery milestone for its 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) programme as global demand for narrowbody freighters continues to climb. The manufacturer has broadened feedstock eligibility to include 2014-vintage 737-800s, enabling younger aircraft to enter the conversion pipeline. According to Bob Weiss, Director of Boeing Converted Freighters, the 737-800BCF remains particularly popular among Asian operators seeking flexible, fuel-efficient solutions for regional and express cargo markets. The milestone underscores Boeing’s growing footprint in the fast-expanding cargo conversion segment.
Cathay Pacific to Repurchase Qatar Airways’ 9.57% Stake
Cathay Pacific Airways has announced plans to buy back Qatar Airways’ entire 9.57% shareholding for a total consideration of HK$6.97 billion (US$890 million). The agreement, formalised through an undertaking between both airlines, remains subject to approval by Cathay’s independent shareholders at an upcoming Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM). The move marks a strategic shift for Cathay, potentially simplifying its ownership structure and strengthening control over future corporate direction.
CDB Aviation Delivers Five A320neo Family Aircraft to Volaris
CDB Aviation, the Irish subsidiary of China Development Bank Financial Leasing, has completed its mandate to deliver five Airbus A320neo Family aircraft, comprising two A320neos and three A321neos, to Mexican low-cost carrier Volaris. The milestone, achieved through a series of sale and leaseback transactions since July 2024, brings the total number of CDB Aviation aircraft leased to Volaris to 16. CEO Jie Chen highlighted the achievement as a testament to the strong, long-term partnership between the two companies and their shared commitment to supporting sustainable fleet growth in the Americas.
Condor Retires Boeing 757-300 with Celebration Above the Clouds
Condor has officially retired its last Boeing 757-300 with a special farewell flight and celebration above the clouds, marking the end of the Boeing era in its fleet. The commemorative journey from Frankfurt to Vienna and back gathered over 300 guests, including aviation enthusiasts, Condor employees, and industry representatives, to honour the aircraft’s legacy. The emotional event highlighted the significance of the 757’s decades-long service and celebrated Condor’s transition to an all-Airbus fleet, symbolising the airline’s continued modernisation and focus on operational efficiency for the future.
Corsica to Subsidise 250,000 Inbound Seats to Boost Winter Tourism
The Collectivity of Corsica has announced plans to subsidise 250,000 inbound airline seats annually across 12 routes over the next four years, aiming to strengthen winter tourism. The initiative, valued at €500,000 for 2025 and increasing to €2.5 million annually, is expected to generate up to €100 million in returns through hotel stays and local spending. Volotea will operate nine of the subsidised routes from Bordeaux, Nantes, and Strasbourg to key Corsican destinations, while Air Corsica will serve Brussels-Charleroi and Rome routes. The subsidy targets high off-season fares inflated by fuel and tax surcharges, encouraging year-round travel and supporting hotels that currently operate at just 20% winter capacity.
Cuba Urges Restoration of Direct UK Flights to Revive Tourism
Cuba’s tourism minister, Juan Carlos García Granda, has called for the reinstatement of direct air links between the UK and Cuba to revive the island’s struggling tourism industry. Speaking at the World Travel Market in London, García Granda emphasised that reconnecting with the UK market is a top priority as visitor numbers remain far below pre-pandemic levels, with only around 27,000 British tourists expected this year, compared to over 200,000 in 2017. The nation’s tourism sector continues to recover from the combined impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and U.S. travel restrictions, including the cruise ship ban introduced under former president Donald Trump. Restoring direct connectivity, García Granda noted, is essential to rebuilding Cuba’s presence as a leading Caribbean destination.
Emirates Wins ‘Best International Airline’ and Multiple Global Honours
Emirates has added another series of prestigious titles to its expanding list of accolades, including ‘Best International Airline,’ ‘Best International First Class,’ and ‘Best International Airline Lounge’ from the Forbes Travel Guide Verified Air Travel Awards. The Dubai-based carrier was also recognised by the World Travel Awards, The Times and Sunday Times Travel Awards, and the Condé Nast Readers’ Choice Awards. For the second consecutive year, over 9,000 frequent fliers, luxury travel advisors, and Forbes inspectors voted Emirates as the top international airline, reflecting the company’s consistent excellence in service, innovation, and premium travel experiences across its global network.
Ethiopian Airlines Slows Expansion Amid Boeing Delivery Delays
Ethiopian Airlines has been forced to scale back its growth plans due to ongoing Boeing delivery delays that could extend for up to two years, according to CEO Mesfin Tasew. While the airline’s narrowbody orders remain on schedule, widebody aircraft including eight Boeing 777-9s—will now enter service in 2027 instead of 2026, with deliveries stretching to 2030. Additional orders for 11 Airbus A350-900s and 11 Boeing 787-9s are also delayed until 2028. The delivery setbacks may prompt Ethiopian to adjust routes or extend the service life of older jets. Despite these challenges, the carrier projects passenger growth of 12–15% this year, driven by new routes and increased frequencies across Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America.
Korean Air Becomes Latest Customer for Airbus A350F
Korean Air has joined the growing list of operators selecting the Airbus A350 Freighter, converting seven of its existing A350-1000 passenger aircraft orders into the all-new large freighter variant. The decision underscores the airline’s commitment to fleet modernisation and efficiency as one of the world’s leading cargo carriers. Airbus Executive Vice President Benoît de Saint-Exupéry described the move as a strong endorsement of the A350F’s performance and environmental advantages, noting that the aircraft will provide Korean Air with the most fuel-efficient and sustainable solution in the large freighter category.
Irish Aviation News
Aer Lingus and Tesco Ireland Partner to Convert Clubcard Points into Avios
Aer Lingus and Tesco Ireland have announced a new partnership allowing AerClub members to convert Tesco Clubcard vouchers into Avios, transforming everyday grocery shopping into rewarding travel experiences. Through Tesco’s Reward Partner programme, Clubcard members can now exchange their vouchers for Avios, the Aer Lingus loyalty currency, which can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, hotel stays, and car rentals. Launched on 4 November 2025, the collaboration offers Irish shoppers a seamless way to earn travel rewards while enhancing the value of their daily purchases.
CDB Aviation Delivers Five A320neo Family Aircraft to Volaris
CDB Aviation, the Irish subsidiary of China Development Bank Financial Leasing Co., Limited, has successfully completed its mandate to deliver five Airbus A320neo Family aircraft comprising two A320neos and three A321neos, to Mexican low-cost carrier Volaris. The milestone, achieved through sale and leaseback transactions since July 2024, brings the total number of CDB Aviation aircraft leased to Volaris to 16. CEO Jie Chen described the achievement as a reflection of the strong partnership and mutual trust between both companies, underscoring CDB Aviation’s ongoing commitment to supporting fleet growth and operational efficiency for key airline customers across the Americas.
Dublin Airport’s Iconic Public Piano Returns to Terminal 1
Dublin Airport’s Terminal 1 is once again filled with music as its beloved public piano made a triumphant return to the Arrivals Hall after a full artistic makeover by renowned street artist Al Maser. To mark the occasion, musician Niall Breslin, known as Bressie performed songs from his new album The Place That Has Never Been Wounded, accompanied by a three-piece string ensemble, delighting passengers and visitors alike. The piano, originally donated to the airport in 2018, has become a cherished fixture over the years, offering spontaneous performances from travellers worldwide. Dublin Airport Managing Director Gary McLean praised the restoration, noting that the instrument continues to bring joy and connection to all who pass through Terminal 1.
Etihad Airways Expands Dublin–Abu Dhabi Service to Double Daily
Etihad Airways has reaffirmed its commitment to the Irish market with plans to increase its Dublin–Abu Dhabi route to a double-daily service starting April 2026. The decision follows a 19% year-on-year rise in Irish passenger traffic, reflecting strong demand for long-haul connectivity between Ireland and the Middle East. The additional frequency will provide travellers with greater flexibility and improved onward connections across Etihad’s extensive global network, reinforcing Dublin’s role as a key European gateway in the airline’s expanding operations.
Global Trek Aviation Boosts Capability with New AL48 Mixer Unit at Belfast International
Global Trek Aviation has commissioned a state-of-the-art AL48 Mixer Unit at its FBO facility at Belfast International Airport (EGAA), enhancing its operational capability to support military and government operations. The bespoke system enables precise onsite production of F-34/JP-8 aviation fuel, providing advanced measured-dosage efficiency for UK, U.S., and NATO tanker deployments. This strategic investment reinforces Global Trek Aviation’s reputation for delivering 24/7 world-class FBO and military support services, ensuring reliability, readiness, and excellence at one of Northern Ireland’s key aviation hubs.
IAA Acts After Unauthorised Drone Flights Detected Near Dublin Airport
The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) has taken regulatory action following an investigation into unauthorised drone operations by Wills Bros Ltd. during construction work in Finglas, within Dublin Airport’s controlled Red Zone. The company conducted drone flights without the necessary Operational Authorisation or UAS Operator Registration, posing potential safety risks to airport operations. The activity was identified through Dublin Airport’s Dedrone detection system, prompting a formal inquiry by the IAA to assess the scope of the breach, identify the pilots involved, and address the causes of non-compliance. The incident underscores the regulator’s firm stance on maintaining strict airspace safety around Ireland’s busiest airport.
Ryanair Exceeds Q2 2026 Earnings Expectations, Eyes Strong Growth Ahead
Ryanair Holdings plc reported Q2 2026 earnings that surpassed expectations, with earnings per share (EPS) of $3.71 versus a forecast of $3.62. Group CEO Michael O’Leary highlighted strong fare recovery, modest cost inflation, and improved aircraft deliveries from Boeing, allowing traffic projections to rise from 206 to 207 million passengers for FY26. Profits rose 20% to €1.72 billion for the quarter, driven by a 7% increase in fares and effective fuel hedging that secured lower costs through FY27. Looking ahead, Ryanair expects traffic to grow to 215–216 million passengers in FY27 and 300 million by 2034, supported by incoming Boeing 737 MAX 10 aircraft and disciplined cost management.
SMBC Aero Engine Lease Seals Sale-and-Leaseback Deal with Frontier Airlines
SMBC Aero Engine Lease B.V. (SAEL) has finalized a sale-and-leaseback agreement with Frontier Airlines covering five Pratt & Whitney PW1100G engines, scheduled for delivery in 2025 from the airline’s spares orderbook. The deal strengthens SAEL’s long-standing partnership with Frontier and underscores its strategy to provide flexible asset solutions that support airline growth and capital efficiency. SAEL Managing Director and CEO Roger Welaratne highlighted the transaction as a testament to the company’s commitment to delivering responsive, high-quality support to its global partners.
Air Canada to Extend Dublin–Montreal Season with A321XLR Debut
At the 2025 Worldchoice conference in County Meath, Air Canada’s Blaithin O’Donnell announced that the Dublin–Montreal service will resume on 15 May 2026 with four weekly flights, operated by the new Airbus A321XLR for the first two weeks before transitioning to the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. The Dublin–Vancouver route will also return on 1 May 2026, operating until late October with the 787-9, supporting early Alaska cruise connections. O’Donnell also highlighted Air Canada’s expanded winter sun network via Toronto, including destinations such as Cancun, Punta Cana, Montego Bay, Nassau, and San José. In a heartfelt moment, she paid tribute to her late colleague Paul Adolphus, remembering his decades of dedication to the Irish travel trade and his close rapport with local agents.
Tweet Picks
@GeorgeNTravels American Airlines will introduce a new route between New York JFK and Edinburgh using their new Airbus 321XLR aircraft with 155 seats. This new route will introduce 462 movements and 71,610 seats between the two airports.
@hjelnaes Ryanair H1 FY26, you are simply the best - better than all the rest..H1 pax 119m just +3%YoY while profit after tax €2,54bn +42% YoY. Are there no headwinds on Ryanair climb to outer space?? Ryanair | H1 FY25 Results.
@hjelnaes Turkish Airlines has no plan of raising its stake (25-27%) in Spain's Air Europa. Synergies with Air Europa’s network to South-America is a major driver for Turkish Airlines investment (€300m).
@HofmannAviation #CEOinterview Max Kownatzki from SunExpress - Max says the European leisure carrier has high expectations for the larger Boeing 737-10 and may up-gauge to the variant sooner from its current MAX 8 order.
Video Picks
Ryanair CFO Neil Sorahan on H1 Results and Growth Outlook
In this interview, Ryanair CFO Neil Sorahan discusses the airline’s strong first-half performance, driven by robust demand, higher fares, and disciplined cost management. He outlines the impact of Boeing delivery delays on fleet expansion plans, while reaffirming Ryanair’s confidence in meeting its FY26 traffic and profit targets. Sorahan also shares insights on the airline’s growth trajectory, fuel hedging strategy, and long-term plans to expand capacity and strengthen its leadership position in European aviation.
Airbus CEO: Tariffs Remain the Industry’s Biggest Challenge
In this video, Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury discusses how global trade tensions and tariffs continue to pose significant challenges for the aviation sector. Speaking on the broader impact of protectionist policies, Faury highlights how rising tariffs affect supply chains, aircraft pricing, and production planning across international markets. He also stresses the importance of open trade, collaboration, and innovation to maintain competitiveness and stability within the aerospace industry.
Wind Farms Near Clare Flight Radar Raise Passenger Safety Concerns
This report examines growing concerns over wind farm developments near a key flight radar installation in County Clare, which aviation experts claim could compromise passenger safety. The video explores how turbine interference may affect radar signals used for tracking aircraft movements in Irish airspace. Local authorities and aviation regulators are reviewing the claims to determine potential risks and establish stricter site assessment criteria for future wind energy projects near aviation infrastructure.
Acumen’s Take
This week’s developments reflect a sector balancing robust demand with evolving structural and regulatory pressures. Airlines continue to expand long-haul capacity and refine fleet strategies despite persistent supply chain delays, while lessors and financiers demonstrate confidence through sustained investment and capital market activity. Infrastructure enhancements, from sustainability initiatives to regional connectivity upgrades, highlight steady progress toward resilience and efficiency. Overall, the industry’s trajectory remains one of cautious optimism defined by strategic growth, disciplined capital deployment, and an intensified focus on operational excellence.
