12 Aug 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 12th August 2025
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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
CN-RHG Boeing 737-8 Delivered to Royal Air Maroc
Royal Air Maroc has taken delivery of a Boeing 737-8, registered CN-RHG (MSN 42828), on 24 July 2025. Formerly operating as LZ-DDS, the aircraft was delivered to the carrier’s base in Casablanca, Morocco. The addition of this fuel-efficient narrowbody aligns with Royal Air Maroc’s ongoing fleet renewal strategy, enhancing operational efficiency and supporting network growth across its short- and medium-haul markets.
HS-TEX Airbus A330-343 Delivered to Thai International
Thai Airways International has added an Airbus A330-343, registered HS-TEX (MSN 1231), to its fleet on 6 August 2025. Previously operating as G-VINE, the aircraft was delivered to Bangkok, Thailand, as part of the carrier’s efforts to strengthen its medium- and long-haul capabilities. This addition supports Thai Airways’ ongoing network optimisation and enhances capacity on high-demand regional and intercontinental routes.
Global Aviation News
Air Lease Highlights Cargo Market Uncertainty with A350F Order Cancellation
Air Lease Corporation has confirmed the cancellation of its order for seven Airbus A350 freighters, citing both programme delays and broader uncertainty in the air cargo market. Initially placed as a launch order in 2021, the aircraft were expected to enter service from 2026, but Airbus has postponed the type’s entry into service to the second half of 2027. CEO John Plueger noted that most of the aircraft were running more than a year behind schedule, prompting the decision to withdraw. The move reflects ongoing challenges in balancing fleet planning with shifting market demand in the freighter sector.
Atlas Concludes 737 CMI Operations for Amazon
Atlas Air has officially ended its crew, maintenance, and insurance (CMI) operations for Amazon’s fleet of Boeing 737-800BCFs, marking the carrier’s complete exit from narrowbody flying. The final aircraft, a 2004-built 737-800BCF (MSN 32663), was retired from Atlas’s operations specifications after ceasing service in May. This transition underscores Atlas’s strategic focus on widebody freighter operations, aligning its resources with higher-capacity, long-haul cargo services.
Azul Secures $650M Backstop Commitment
Azul S.A., Brazil’s largest airline by flight departures and destinations, has signed a Backstop Commitment Agreement (BCA) with select parties to support an equity capital raise of up to USD 650 million. Finalisation of the agreement is contingent on approval from the Bankruptcy Court, with a motion for approval to be filed in ongoing Chapter 11 proceedings. The commitment aims to strengthen Azul’s capital position as it advances its restructuring efforts and positions for long-term operational stability.
CALC Signs Agreement to Lease Two New Airbus A320neos to Air Cairo
China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings Limited (CALC) has signed a lease agreement with Egypt’s Air Cairo for two brand new Airbus A320neo aircraft powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines. Scheduled for delivery in Q2 2026, the agreement enhances CALC’s presence in the EMEA region and supports Air Cairo’s strategic fleet expansion and route development plans.
CAPA: Consolidation Is The Key To Sustainable, Profitable Airlines
According to the Centre for Aviation (CAPA), achieving long-term airline profitability requires greater industry consolidation. The sector faces a delicate balance—while lower oil prices can ease operating costs, slower global economic growth typically dampens passenger demand. Given the close historical link between GDP trends and air traffic growth, CAPA suggests that merging operations and strengthening market positions may help airlines weather economic downturns and maintain sustainable margins.
Cathay Pacific Orders 14 More Boeing 777-9 Passenger Aircraft
Cathay Pacific has expanded its commitment to Boeing’s latest-generation widebody by ordering an additional 14 777-9 passenger jets, raising its total order to 35 aircraft. This move cements the Hong Kong-based carrier’s position as the largest 777-9 operator in the Asia-Pacific region. The aircraft, designed to deliver 20% lower fuel burn and emissions alongside a 40% noise reduction, will support Cathay’s fleet renewal strategy and help meet rising demand on long-haul routes across key global markets.
Emirates Introduces Retrofitted Boeing 777 to Madrid
Emirates will begin operating its newly refurbished Boeing 777 on the Madrid route from 16 September 2025, making the Spanish capital the first in the country to feature the airline’s next-generation interiors. The upgraded aircraft offers enhanced comfort and signature premium touches across all cabin classes, reflecting Emirates’ ongoing investment in elevating the passenger experience on key international routes.
Etihad Reports Busiest Ever Month for Aircraft Deliveries
Etihad Airways recorded its busiest month for aircraft deliveries in July 2023, adding five jets to its fleet, which now totals 106 with an average age of 8.7 years. The arrivals included two Boeing 787s, an Airbus A350-1000, an A320ceo, and the airline’s first A321LR. With 20 more aircraft scheduled for delivery by 2026, Etihad is targeting significant network growth, including 27 new destinations, as part of its goal to carry 38 million passengers annually by 2030.
Riyadh Air Secures Slots for B787 Heathrow Service from October 26
Riyadh Air has confirmed it will commence daily Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner flights to London Heathrow from 26 October 2025, following the acquisition of remedy slots that bypass the airport’s steep access costs. The service, offering 288 seats per flight, forms part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy to position Riyadh as a leading global aviation hub and strengthen its competitive standing in the international market.
Irish Aviation News
Aer Lingus Unveils Major Mobile App Upgrade
Aer Lingus has rolled out a significant overhaul of its mobile app, marking a key step in its multi-million-euro digital transformation strategy. Developed with input from a 1,300-strong customer research panel, the revamped app focuses on delivering a more seamless and intuitive travel experience, particularly on the day of departure. This upgrade underscores Aer Lingus’s commitment to customer-centric innovation and positions the airline to lead in digital travel solutions.
Airborne Capital Announces Boeing B767-300BCF Lease with Geosky Airlines
Dublin-based Airborne Capital has completed the placement and delivery of a Boeing B767-300BCF on long-term lease to Georgia’s Geosky Airlines. This deal represents Airborne Capital’s debut in the widebody freighter segment and its first partnership with Geosky, a growing cargo carrier established in 2017. The aircraft is the first of several 767 freighters the company plans to remarket, signalling its strategic entry into the global freighter leasing space.
Airlink and Azorra Finalize Lease of 10 New Embraer E195-E2s
Airlink has secured a lease deal with Azorra for 10 new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, with the first delivery slated for later this year. The agreement builds on Airlink’s earlier decision to introduce the E195-E2 into its operations, enhancing the capabilities of South Africa’s largest independent full-service airline. Supplied by Florida-based lessor Azorra, the new jets will expand Airlink’s 68-aircraft fleet, supporting its growth and network development strategy across Africa.
Arena Aviation Acquires 8-Aircraft Portfolio from AerCap
Arena Aviation Capital has completed the acquisition of an eight-aircraft package from AerCap, valued at approximately $180 million, on behalf of a US-based investment fund. The portfolio comprises six Airbus A320-200s and two Boeing 737NGs, all leased to established carriers including EasyJet, Air France, Avianca, and Norwegian. This marks Arena’s third portfolio transaction with AerCap, with the final aircraft delivered on 2 July 2025. Financing for the deal was provided by PK AirFinance, which also acted as Facility Agent and Security Trustee.
Engine Lease Finance Corporation Finalizes CFM LEAP Spare Engine Agreement
Engine Lease Finance Corporation (elfc) has concluded a deal with CFM International for the purchase of 50 spare CFM LEAP engines, covering both LEAP-1A variants for Airbus A320neo family aircraft and LEAP-1B variants for Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. The agreement strengthens elfc’s long-standing relationship with CFM, spanning over three decades, and ensures continued support for customers seeking efficient, reliable, and high-utilisation engine solutions.
Eoghan Corry Talks Travel – August 2025
In his August 2025 travel commentary, Eoghan Corry delves into key developments shaping the travel and aviation sectors. He highlights industry responses to ongoing capacity constraints, evolving airline strategies, and shifting consumer behaviours as demand patterns adjust post-pandemic. Corry also examines regulatory decisions, infrastructure challenges, and competitive pressures that continue to influence airline network planning and pricing. His insights offer a nuanced perspective on the opportunities and headwinds facing carriers and travellers alike in the months ahead.
IAA Commences Dublin Airport Charges Determination Process
The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) has launched the process for setting the next Dublin Airport charges determination, beginning with the release of initial consultation papers. The forthcoming 2026 Determination will establish the maximum allowable airport charges for a minimum four-year period starting 1 January 2027. This marks the IAA’s first such decision since assuming the role from the former Commission for Aviation Regulation in 2023, signalling a new era in regulatory oversight for Ireland’s busiest airport.
IATA DG Willie Walsh Comments on Heathrow Development Proposals
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has voiced support for expanding airport capacity in Southeast England, including at Heathrow, the UK’s only global hub. Director General Willie Walsh welcomed the government’s commitment to advancing expansion plans, highlighting the economic benefits for national growth. However, he cautioned against assuming that the current operator, Heathrow Airport Limited (HAL), is the only viable party to deliver the project, stressing the need for a value-driven approach that maximises benefits for the UK economy.
Ryanair Criticizes High Costs and Slow Recovery of German Air Traffic
Ryanair has once again criticised Germany’s high airport access costs, pointing to excessive taxes, air traffic control fees, security charges, and airport tariffs as the main factors slowing the country’s aviation recovery. In its June traffic update, the airline highlighted Germany as Europe’s slowest-growing air travel market, with major airports like Berlin (71% of pre-Covid traffic), Stuttgart (77%), Cologne (78%), Hamburg (84%), and Düsseldorf (85%) still well below pre-crisis levels. Regional airports such as Dresden (62%) and Leipzig (72%) have been particularly affected, with declines exacerbated by Ryanair’s withdrawal from operations.
Tweet Picks
@skift As Indians lean into micro-travel for long weekends, they are no longer limiting themselves to staycations, but are exploring emerging trends ranging from cruise tourism to biking expeditions.
@skift American Airlines to Debut Routes to Budapest and Prague in Bid for International Profits. "American Airlines said Thursday that it would launch new routes to Budapest and Prague from Philadelphia next summer, placing a big bet on international travel."
@skift Summer Short-Term Rental Demand Slips in Southern Europe. Blame the Heat. "Demand for short-term rentals in Southern Europe’s peak summer season is showing signs of decline, and extreme heat may be a key factor behind the shift."
@skift Southwest Airlines Flights Are Now Available on Priceline. "Southwest Airlines flights will now be available to book on Priceline, making it the second online travel agency to partner with the Dallas-based carrier. "
Video Picks
Abu Dhabi Aviation and Hospitality Growth Still Trails Dubai
In this video, industry experts discuss the robust expansion of Abu Dhabi’s aviation and hospitality sectors, driven by infrastructure investment, rising tourist arrivals, and expanding airline networks. While growth momentum is strong, the market still lags significantly behind Dubai in scale and global reach. The discussion highlights Abu Dhabi’s long-term strategies to close the gap, including diversifying tourism offerings, strengthening its role as a regional hub, and capitalising on key events to boost international appeal.
Boeing Q2 2025 Earnings Conference Call
In this video, Boeing executives present the company’s second-quarter 2025 financial results, noting solid progress in aircraft deliveries and operational stability. They outline key performance drivers, including sustained demand for commercial aircraft, improved supply chain resilience, and steady recovery in widebody and freighter markets. The call also addresses ongoing production targets, programme updates, and Boeing’s strategic focus on meeting customer commitments while strengthening profitability and cash flow in the months ahead.
Host Hotels CEO on Travel Demand: Luxury Has Been Outperforming for a While
In this video, Host Hotels & Resorts CEO Jim Risoleo discusses sustained strength in luxury travel demand, highlighting how the premium segment has consistently outperformed other categories. He notes that affluent travellers continue to prioritise high-end experiences despite broader economic uncertainty, driving robust occupancy and revenue growth. Risoleo also outlines how the company is leveraging this trend through strategic asset investments and enhancements to capture long-term value in the luxury hospitality market.
Acumen’s Take
Today’s Brief reflects an industry in active transition—balancing strategic fleet modernisation, capital restructuring, and digital innovation with a sharp focus on profitability and efficiency. Across both passenger and cargo markets, airlines, lessors, and regulators are making calculated moves to align with long-term growth plans, even amid lingering economic and operational headwinds. The emphasis on new-generation aircraft, enhanced customer experiences, and targeted market expansion points to a sector preparing for sustained demand while safeguarding resilience. For stakeholders, the message is clear: adaptability and forward planning remain the core levers for competitive advantage.
