13 Jun 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 13th June 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: This edition highlights recent developments in the Chinese aviation market, covering new airline routes, regulatory updates, and strategic fleet decisions.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-1-june-2025-china-aviation-industry-newsletter
- India Aviation Newsletter: The latest issue outlines key changes within India's aviation ecosystem, including airport infrastructure projects, airline expansions, and policy shifts.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-1-june-2025-india-aviation-newsletter
- Irish Aircraft Leasing Newsletter: This update details transactions, deliveries, and leadership changes across Ireland’s aircraft leasing companies.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-1-june-2025-irish-aircraft-leasing-newsletter
- Irish Commercial Aircraft Update: The report tracks aircraft movements, delivery updates, and operational changes involving commercial aircraft linked to Irish entities.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-1-june-2025-irish-commercial-aircraft-update
- North American Aviation Newsletter: This newsletter presents recent aircraft acquisitions, new service launches, and operational highlights from airlines and lessors across the North American region.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-1-june-2025-north-american-aviation-newsletter
IrishAero News
Ryanair Acquires Third Challenger 3500
Ryanair has added a third Bombardier Challenger 3500 to its corporate jet fleet, reinforcing its executive travel capabilities. The aircraft offers enhanced range and premium cabin features, complementing the airline’s growing business aviation portfolio.
Acumen’s Take
This acquisition marks Ryanair’s continued investment in the premium charter space. It signals broader diversification beyond its traditional low-cost model, a move that may support internal operations and executive travel demands.
SAS Connect Scales Up A320neo Fleet
SAS Connect has expanded its Airbus A320neo fleet, with recent deliveries supporting the airline’s strategy to modernise and decarbonise its short-haul network. The additional aircraft will enhance efficiency across key European routes.
Acumen’s Take
The fleet expansion underlines SAS Connect’s focus on sustainable growth. Acumen continues to monitor A320neo deliveries as airlines shift to newer-generation aircraft to meet emissions targets and improve operating economics.
Third Airbus A321XLR Joins Aer Lingus Fleet
Aer Lingus has taken delivery of its third Airbus A321XLR, bolstering its transatlantic narrowbody fleet. The aircraft will enable the airline to launch longer, thinner routes while maintaining cost-efficiency and passenger comfort.
Acumen’s Take
The A321XLR provides Aer Lingus with strategic flexibility to serve secondary North American markets. Its range and efficiency open up new network possibilities, supporting the carrier’s post-pandemic expansion strategy.
Aircraft Update
PS-LHB Airbus A320-271N (c/n 8702)
Delivered to Barcelona on 3 April 2025, this Airbus A320-271N, now registered as PS-LHB, was previously operated as VT-IZP. The aircraft is operated by LATAM Brasil.
Acumen’s Take
The transition of this A320neo underscores continued fleet optimisation across Latin America, supporting fuel efficiency and route flexibility in competitive markets.
SU-GFB Airbus A220-300 (c/n 55063)
Egyptair’s Airbus A220-300 was ferried to Orlando on 31 May 2025. The aircraft is intended for Breeze Airways.
Acumen’s Take
The movement of SU-GFB signals cross-border fleet redeployments and highlights the A220’s rising appeal among operators for regional and short-haul efficiency.
Global Aviation News
Etihad Airways and SF Airlines Sign Cargo Joint Business Agreement
Etihad Airways and SF Airlines have signed a Joint Business Agreement to enhance air cargo connectivity and expand services for customers across key global markets. The partnership enables both carriers to offer broader access to new destinations, strengthening trade and logistics links between the Middle East, China and beyond. The agreement also highlights a mutual focus on innovation and improved cargo infrastructure.
Acumen’s Take:
This partnership between Etihad and SF Airlines marks a strategic alignment in response to growing cargo demand across Asia and the Middle East. As global supply chains continue to evolve, such collaborations are instrumental in creating seamless cross-border freight connectivity. For lessors and stakeholders, enhanced cargo corridors signal long-term investment stability in freighter-converted assets and regional airport infrastructure.
Ethiopian Airlines Signs Agreements with GE Aerospace to Power New Widebody Aircraft
Ethiopian Airlines has officially selected the GEnx-1B engine to power its new order of eleven Boeing 787-9 aircraft, increasing its GEnx-powered Dreamliner fleet from 19 to 30 units. In addition, the airline has reaffirmed its earlier commitment to the GE9X engine for eight Boeing 777-9 aircraft, with options for six more. The announcements were made in Addis Ababa and mark a continuation of Ethiopian Airlines’ investment in advanced propulsion technologies.
Acumen’s Take:
Ethiopian Airlines’ dual commitment to GEnx and GE9X engines showcases its long-term strategy to lead Africa in fleet modernisation and fuel efficiency. The move not only reinforces GE Aerospace's dominance in the widebody engine market but also signals strong aftermarket potential and stable engine leasing demand. For lessors and MROs, such orders represent robust opportunities tied to extended engine service contracts and power-by-the-hour models.
IATA Air Cargo Demand up 5.8% in April
Air cargo demand saw a notable increase in April 2025, rising by 5.8% compared to the same period last year. This growth continues the strong momentum observed in March and is largely attributed to seasonal demand for fashion and consumer goods, in part accelerated by anticipated tariff changes in the US. Lower jet fuel prices also played a supporting role in improving yields and profitability. Despite record capacity levels, the broader trade environment remains uncertain due to shifting global policies, especially in the United States. Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, emphasised the need for airlines to stay agile in response to these evolving dynamics.
Acumen’s Take:
April’s rebound in air cargo underscores the sector’s resilience, particularly in segments like e-commerce and fashion retail. With capacity and yields improving simultaneously—a rare combination—airlines and cargo operators are well-positioned to capitalize. However, geopolitical headwinds and trade policy shifts demand vigilant network and pricing strategies. Lessors and freight service providers should prepare for potential lane realignments, especially involving transpacific routes and tariff-sensitive goods.
Norwegian Government to Sell Entire Stake in Norwegian (Air Shuttle)
The Norwegian government has announced its plan to divest its entire stake in Norwegian Air Shuttle, the low-cost carrier headquartered in Oslo. In a statement released after the close of trading on the Oslo Stock Exchange, authorities confirmed that up to 65,582,436 shares could be sold, representing the state’s full holding in the airline. Based on the closing price of 14.06 Norwegian kroner per share, the transaction is estimated to be worth around 922 million kroner (€81 million / $88 million). The government stated it would proceed with the sale if market demand and pricing conditions are deemed satisfactory.
Acumen’s Take:
The Norwegian government’s planned exit signals confidence in the airline’s post-restructuring stability and a broader shift toward privatisation in strategic sectors. For investors, this could represent an opportunity to gain exposure to a carrier that has restructured aggressively and demonstrated resilience. Lessors and partners should monitor for potential board or strategic shifts post-divestment, which may influence fleet expansion or long-term leasing strategy.
United Partners with Spotify to Provide Playlists on 680 Aircraft
United Airlines has teamed up with Spotify to offer passengers access to playlists, podcasts, and audiobooks on over 680 aircraft—the first airline to feature Spotify’s audiobooks and video podcasts. Content includes shows like Good Hang with Amy Poehler and The Dave Chang Show.From next year, passengers can log into Spotify directly from the seatback screen, with a dedicated in-flight Spotify channel enhancing entertainment options.
Acumen’s Take:
This collaboration reflects a growing shift toward personalised inflight experiences. For lessors and OEMs, it underscores the rising demand for IFE upgrades and tech integration to meet evolving passenger expectations.
Wizz Shares Fall 23% Amid Engine Repair Crisis
Wizz Air’s stock plunged 23% after grounding 37 aircraft due to Pratt & Whitney engine inspections, with 34 expected to remain out of service into H1 FY2026.Operating profit dropped 61.7% to €167.5 million—well below forecasts. CEO József Váradi warned of ongoing impacts for the next 2–3 years.
Acumen’s Take:
Prolonged groundings are hitting Wizz's capacity and earnings hard. Lessors and OEMs alike will be watching closely as reliability concerns weigh on fleet planning and asset utilisation.
Irish Aviation News
BETA Technologies Debuts Electric Aircraft at Shannon
BETA Technologies showcased its ALIA CTOL electric aircraft at Shannon Airport with support from Future Mobility Campus Ireland. The event marked the start of its European tour, ahead of delivery to Bristow in Norway.
Acumen’s Take:
Ireland continues to emerge as a key hub for sustainable aviation. The ALIA CTOL debut reflects growing momentum in advanced air mobility across Europe.
Ireland Ranked 17th for U.S. Inbound Travel in March
In March 2025, Ireland was ranked as the 17th most important inbound market to the United States, according to the latest data. The ranking reflects Ireland’s continued relevance in transatlantic travel and tourism flows.
Acumen’s Take:
Ireland’s steady presence among top U.S. inbound markets underlines the strength of bilateral air connectivity and the ongoing appeal of U.S. travel among Irish passengers.
Walsh: Low-Cost Model Thrives Outside the U.S.
At the IATA AGM in Delhi, Director General Willie Walsh defended the low-cost carrier (LCC) model, stating it continues to work "very well" internationally, despite criticism from U.S. airline executives. Walsh acknowledged that while Scott Kirby of United Airlines may be right about the U.S. market, the LCC model remains robust and competitive across Europe and other regions.
Acumen’s Take:
Walsh’s remarks reinforce the ongoing viability of LCCs in global markets, particularly in Europe and Asia, where cost-efficiency and network agility remain key drivers of success. This divergence in regional dynamics highlights the adaptability of the LCC model when tailored to local market conditions.
Shannon Airport to Host Advanced Aerial Mobility Research Lab
Shannon Airport is set to enhance its innovation footprint with a proposed advanced aerial mobility research lab. Planning permission has been submitted by Shannon Airport Authority DAC to develop a single-storey facility featuring a terminal, office spaces, and a dedicated hangar apron. The lab aims to position the airport as a key hub for testing and developing next-generation aviation technologies.
Acumen’s Take:
The establishment of this lab reinforces Shannon Airport’s strategic commitment to innovation and sustainability. By creating a platform for advanced aerial mobility, Shannon continues to cement its role as a leader in supporting emerging aviation ecosystems within Ireland and Europe.
Planning Permission Granted for Aircraft Observation Area at Dublin
Planning permission has been granted for a new Aircraft Observation Facility at Dublin Airport, located on Old Airport Road where the current informal viewing point exists. The approved development includes an elevated viewing platform with sheltered structures, seating, and tables.
The project also features enhanced parking with 22 spaces (including PRM and family slots), 10 bicycle spaces, a diverge lane for safe access, solar-powered electrical enclosures, improved drainage, lighting, and landscaping—making the site more accessible and visitor-friendly.
Acumen’s Take:
This facility aligns with Dublin Airport’s efforts to engage the community and aviation enthusiasts, transforming a popular informal spot into a safe, inclusive, and sustainable destination. It's a smart move that enhances the airport’s public-facing infrastructure while promoting aviation awareness.
Ryanair Secures €1.1 Billion Credit Facility
Ryanair Holdings plc has secured a €1.1 billion unsecured revolving credit facility from a syndicate of 17 lenders. The deal, advised by Ruth Lillis and team, strengthens the airline’s liquidity as it continues to operate 3,600 daily flights and serve 200 million passengers annually.
Acumen’s Take:
This facility highlights Ryanair’s solid credit profile and offers financial agility to support growth, fleet investments, and sustainability goals in a dynamic operating environment.
Tweet Picks
@aviator_aero Norway to dump its entire 6.37% stake in Norwegian, 65.5m shares valued at $88M.
@FlightGlobal ANA sees Embraer E2s replacing larger jets on domestic network.
@flySEA For decades, @SAS served SEA and the Pacific Northwest, starting in the 1960s. The start of a new route to Copenhagen with five flights a week brings back many memories for locals in the region who remember their first trips to Europe on SAS aircraft.
@mattcawby The 1800th Boeing 777, DHL D-AALZ returning from first flight.
Video Picks
First Flight of an Electric Aircraft in Ireland
Ireland marked a historic milestone with the inaugural flight of an electric aircraft, highlighting the nation’s increasing focus on sustainability and innovation in aviation. The test flight serves as a promising indicator of the country’s commitment to advanced air mobility technologies.
Acumen’s Take
The successful flight signals Ireland’s growing role in next-gen aviation solutions. For lessors and operators, it hints at future demand for electric aircraft infrastructure and the emergence of new business models in regional aviation.
IATA's Willie Walsh Talks Tariffs, Air Traffic Control and Oil Prices
Willie Walsh discusses the compounding effects of global tariffs, persistent air traffic control inefficiencies, and fluctuating oil prices on airline operations. He stresses the need for cohesive global strategies to address these ongoing challenges.
Acumen’s Take
Walsh’s insights reflect key macroeconomic stressors shaping airline cost structures and strategic planning. Such factors influence lease terms, route economics, and demand forecasts, reinforcing the need for adaptive asset management strategies.
JetBlue CEO Joanna Geraghty on United Partnership
JetBlue CEO Joanna Geraghty discusses the airline’s new partnership with United, aimed at enhancing connectivity and customer experience. The collaboration is seen as a move to strengthen their market presence and jointly tackle operational challenges.
Acumen’s Take
Strategic airline partnerships like this one signify continued industry consolidation around route efficiency and customer reach. These developments impact aircraft utilisation rates and may drive demand for fleet alignment and joint leasing structures.
