13 Mar 2026
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 13th March 2026
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IrishAero News
Azul Embraer 195 Arrives at Ireland West Airport
PR-AYW Embraer ERJ-195LR (ERJ-190-200LR) c/n 19000458 operated by Azul Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras arrived at Ireland West Airport on 28 February 2026 following a routing from Espargos via Porto, touching down at 14:32 local time as flight AZU9843. The aircraft, named “#MulheresDaAzul,” first flew in July 2011 as an Embraer ERJ-195AR before being delivered to Azul in September 2011 and later modified to ERJ-195LR configuration in 2018. According to Planespotters.net, the aircraft was withdrawn from service in November 2025 and is currently stored at Knock. Azul operates a fleet of 24 ERJ-195LR aircraft configured with 118 seats and an average fleet age of around 13.7 years.
CityJet Phases Out EI-FPX CRJ900
CityJet has begun phasing out another aircraft from its CRJ900 fleet as EI-FPX (msn 15436), named “Vale Viking,” was ferried from Copenhagen to Dayton International Airport, Ohio between 4–5 March 2026. The aircraft routed via Keflavik, Goose Bay and Toronto before arriving in the United States, where it is expected to join PSA Airlines as N644NN. PSA Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group operating under the American Eagle brand, continues to expand its CRJ-900 fleet with aircraft sourced from CityJet. EI-FPX will join several sister aircraft already transferred or in the process of joining PSA, reflecting the ongoing transition of former CityJet CRJ900s into regional operations within the American Eagle network.
Lufthansa A380 Painted at Shannon Airport
Lufthansa Airbus A380-841 D-AIMH (c/n 080), formerly named “New York,” arrived at Shannon Airport on 21 January 2026 at 11:04 local time operating as DLH9900 to undergo a special repaint by International Aerospace Coatings (IAC). During its stay, the aircraft received commemorative markings featuring the lettering “1926 | 2026” and “100,” marking Lufthansa’s centenary celebrations, with the work carried out using an XXL crane to apply the large-scale design. The aircraft departed Shannon on 26 February as DLH9901 bound for Munich, becoming the fourth Airbus A380 to carry this distinctive anniversary livery. Shannon Airport Director Niall Kearns noted that while the A380 is rarely seen in Ireland, the airport’s long runway allows it to accommodate such large aircraft with ease, adding that its presence always generates excitement among aviation enthusiasts and the public alike.
Aircraft Update
G-EIDY Airbus A330-302 c/n 1025 Aer Lingus UK Ferried Manchester–Dublin 03/03/26
G-EIDY Airbus A330-302 (c/n 1025) operated by Aer Lingus UK was ferried from Manchester to Dublin on 3 March 2026. The aircraft forms part of the airline’s widebody fleet used primarily for transatlantic operations. The movement to Dublin reflects ongoing fleet positioning and operational adjustments within the Aer Lingus network.
N845AE Embraer ERJ-135KL c/n 145685 TVPX Trust Services Ferried Centralia–Bangor–Goose Bay–Keflavik–Shannon 04/02/26
N845AE Embraer ERJ-135KL (c/n 145685) registered to TVPX Trust Services was ferried from Centralia to Shannon on 4 February 2026, routing via Bangor, Goose Bay and Keflavik. The transatlantic positioning flight reflects typical transfer or storage movements for regional aircraft as operators reposition assets between North America and Europe for leasing, maintenance or remarketing purposes.
Global Aviation News
GOL Considers Diversifying Fleet Following Restructuring
GOL Linhas Aéreas CEO Celso Ferrer has indicated that the Brazilian airline is exploring the possibility of diversifying its fleet as it stabilises following its Chapter 11 restructuring. Speaking at the Routes Americas 2026 conference in Rio de Janeiro, Ferrer noted that GOL’s current all-Boeing 737 fleet strategy could evolve as the airline strengthens its position within the Abra Group. Formed in 2022, the group combines Avianca, GOL and Spanish wet-lease operator Wamos Air, potentially creating opportunities for broader fleet flexibility across the network.
Global Airport Hubs Expand Capacity as Demand Becomes Key Differentiator
Global aviation hubs are continuing to expand capacity, but long-term success will ultimately depend on underlying passenger demand rather than infrastructure alone. While a small group of mega hubs still dominate global airport rankings, differences in domestic versus international traffic, airline concentration, low-cost carrier penetration and hub-and-spoke structures create widely varied outcomes across markets. Infrastructure factors such as runway availability, operating hours and aircraft mix also play a critical role, with recent years demonstrating that capacity growth does not always align directly with demand due to fleet availability, regulatory constraints and geopolitical influences.
Hanwha AeroTechnix Completes First CFM56-7B Engine Teardown for Stratton Aviation
Hanwha AeroTechnix has successfully completed its first CFM56-7B engine teardown for Stratton Aviation, marking a significant milestone in the company’s expanding maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capabilities. The project was carried out by the company’s technical team in accordance with all relevant safety, quality and regulatory standards. The development highlights Hanwha AeroTechnix’s growing presence in the aviation aftermarket and reflects continued investment in technical expertise and operational capability to support global customers.
Hong Kong International Airport Reports Strong Start to 2026
Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) recorded steady growth across passenger traffic, flight movements and cargo volumes in January 2026, reflecting continued recovery momentum in the Asia-Pacific aviation market. The airport handled 5.51 million passengers during the month, representing a 4.5% increase year-on-year, while flight movements rose 2.4% to 34,445. The performance highlights the gradual strengthening of regional travel demand and Hong Kong’s ongoing role as a key global aviation and cargo hub.
IATA Highlights Growing Need to Maximise Airport Capacity
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has emphasised the increasing pressure on airport infrastructure as global air traffic continues to recover and expand. Many major hubs, particularly in Europe and North America, are struggling to keep pace with demand, placing renewed focus on how airports can maximize the use of existing capacity. While several expansion projects are underway globally, including the UK Government’s commitment to expand London Heathrow and new airport developments in Warsaw, the Middle East, Vietnam and Sydney, concerns remain around construction costs and delivery timelines. With estimates suggesting the global airport development market could exceed $750 billion, infrastructure planning is becoming a critical factor in supporting future aviation growth.
ICCS Opens Second FBO at Toluca International Airport
International Corporate and Cargo Services (ICCS), Mexico’s largest fixed-base operator (FBO) chain, has officially opened its second FBO facility at Toluca International Airport. The company has operated at Toluca, one of Mexico’s busiest gateways for general aviation, since 2019. The new facility was developed after ICCS acquired a former Mexican government building in 2022 and completely redeveloped it into a modern, state-of-the-art operation. The expansion strengthens ICCS’s presence in the region and reflects continued growth in business and private aviation activity at Toluca.
Jetstream Delivers Third ATR 72-600 to Aurigny Air Services
Jetstream Aviation Capital has delivered an ATR 72-600 passenger aircraft to Aurigny Air Services Limited, based in Guernsey in the Channel Islands. The aircraft, MSN 1167, was handed over on 28 February 2026 and represents the third delivery under a multi-aircraft commitment between the two companies. The turboprop will support Aurigny’s scheduled and charter passenger services across the Channel Islands, France, the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom, strengthening regional connectivity and fleet capacity for the carrier.
Norwegian Group Reports Strong February Passenger Demand
Norwegian Air Shuttle Group reported solid traffic performance in February 2026, carrying a total of 1.6 million passengers across its airlines. The main carrier, Norwegian, transported 1.32 million passengers during the month, while regional subsidiary Widerøe carried 298,000 passengers. The results highlight continued resilience in travel demand despite the typically quieter winter season, with the group also reporting strong load factors across its network.
Irish Aviation News
Aer Lingus Gradually Winds Down Manchester Transatlantic Routes
Aer Lingus is progressively discontinuing its transatlantic services from Manchester during the first quarter of 2026, following the closure of reservations for these routes earlier in the year. According to AeroRoutes, the airline has begun removing operational schedules for several long-haul services. The final Manchester–New York JFK flight operated on 18 February 2026, while Manchester–Bridgetown (Barbados) is scheduled to end on 29 March 2026 and Manchester–Orlando on 30 March 2026. The move marks the gradual withdrawal of Aer Lingus’ long-haul operations from Manchester as the carrier refocuses its transatlantic network.
DCU Explores Integration of Carbon Offsetting into Flight Labels
Researchers at Dublin City University (DCU) are examining how carbon offsetting could be integrated directly into carbon flight labels to support more sustainable aviation practices. While carbon labels currently provide passengers with information about the emissions associated with a flight, they often stop short of offering immediate mitigation options during the booking process. With aviation responsible for nearly 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, the research highlights how combining transparency with built-in offsetting options could give passengers a clearer and more practical way to reduce the environmental impact of their travel decisions.
Galway Chamber Criticises Focus on Dublin Airport Expansion
Galway Chamber has raised concerns about the Government’s focus on expanding Dublin Airport, warning that it risks sidelining regional airports such as Ireland West and Shannon. In its submission to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport, the Chamber argued that the proposed Dublin Airport Passenger Capacity Bill 2026, which seeks to remove the current 32 million passenger cap, could create a significant regional imbalance. It stated that pursuing expansion without a broader national aviation strategy may have long-term economic consequences for regional connectivity and local economies outside the capital.
Irish Air Corps to Play Larger Role Under New Maritime Security Strategy
Ireland’s first National Maritime Security Strategy (NMSS) for 2026–2030 outlines an expanded role for the Irish Air Corps in protecting the country’s maritime domain. While the Naval Service will remain the State’s primary seagoing force, the strategy positions the Air Corps as a key contributor to maritime surveillance and situational awareness. The initiative forms part of a broader whole-of-government approach aimed at strengthening national resilience, enhancing patrol support and improving coordination across Ireland’s air and maritime security operations.
Kerry Airport Included in Regional Airports Programme 2026–2030
Kerry Airport will benefit from new funding under Ireland’s Regional Airports Programme for 2026–2030, part of a broader initiative aimed at strengthening connectivity and supporting regional infrastructure. Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien announced a total allocation of almost €45 million for regional airports, with up to €19 million available during 2026. The funding is intended to help sustain regional air services and maintain essential airport operations, with local representatives welcoming the investment as an important step for regional economic development and connectivity.
K2 Aviation Acquires Boeing 737-800 on Lease to FlySafair
K2 Aviation has completed the purchase of a Boeing 737-800 from Aviation Capital Group (ACG), with the aircraft remaining on lease to South African airline FlySafair. The transaction marks an expansion of K2 Aviation’s portfolio and introduces FlySafair as a new airline customer for the company. Commenting on the deal, Chairman Charles Graham highlighted the purchase as the first of several expected acquisitions from ACG and noted that the agreement also extends K2 Aviation’s presence into a new geographic market as it continues to grow its fleet in 2026.
Dublin Airport Passenger Target Debate Raised at Oireachtas Committee
Discussions around the proposed removal of Dublin Airport’s passenger cap continued at an Oireachtas committee hearing, where officials from the Department of Transport clarified that there is no formal departmental target for annual passenger numbers. The minister for transport’s suggestion that the airport could handle up to 60 million passengers per year was described as a “political opinion” rather than an official policy objective. The proposal to lift the existing cap has drawn criticism from some political figures, including Green Party leader Roderic O’Gorman, who argued the move could undermine climate commitments and the broader framework of Ireland’s Climate Act.
Pooleys Flight Guide Highlights Donegal Airport Experience
The latest instalment of the Pooleys Ireland Flight Guide Spotlight Series places Donegal Airport (EIDL) in focus, highlighting its reputation as one of the most scenic approaches in European aviation. Located at Carrickfinn near Dungloe in County Donegal, the airport sits along the Atlantic coastline and is known for its striking surroundings of beaches, rugged coastline and the nearby Derryveagh Mountains. Donegal Airport operates a single 1,496-metre asphalt runway capable of handling regional airline traffic while remaining a popular and accessible destination for general aviation pilots. Its straightforward layout, welcoming staff and spectacular approach have made it a bucket-list airfield for many pilots flying in the region.
Ryanair Passenger Numbers in Spain Rise 4.1% in 2025
Ryanair reported continued growth in Spain during 2025, carrying 66.8 million passengers across its Spanish network, representing a 4.1% increase year-on-year. The Swords-based airline strengthened its position in the market despite reducing winter capacity by around 1.8 million seats as part of schedule adjustments aimed at improving operational efficiency. Strong demand across key routes helped support the growth, reinforcing Spain’s importance within Ryanair’s broader European network.
A320 at Shannon Repainted for Nouvelair
An Airbus A320-214, registration SE-RGH (MSN 3508), previously operated by Braathens International, arrived at Shannon Airport from Sofia on 11 December 2025 following its withdrawal from service. The aircraft was later moved to IAC Hangar 6 on 13 January 2026 for repainting and preparation for its next operator. After completing the repaint process, the aircraft rolled out on 23 January 2026 in the colours of Nouvelair and is now registered as TS-INI, where it remains parked awaiting its next operational deployment.
TrueNoord Delivers Refurbished Dash 8-400 to Nexus Airlines
Regional aircraft lessor TrueNoord has delivered an OEM-refurbished De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400 to Australian carrier Nexus Airlines under a long-term operating lease. The aircraft entered service immediately and will support Nexus Airlines’ regional operations across Western Australia. The delivery marks the fourth TrueNoord aircraft to join the airline’s fleet, further strengthening the partnership between the two companies as Nexus continues to expand regional connectivity in the region.
Tweet Picks
@ByERussell Yes, European discounter (and the continent's third largest airline) Wizz Air wants to fly to the US. But not for scheduled service — yet. Only "for charter rights for the World Cup flights," CFO Ian Malin said Thursday.
@ByERussell Southwest Airlines contractually would take delivery of 167 new Boeing 737 MAX in 2026. In reality, the number of deliveries is likely to be much, much lower with the company actually expecting only 66 737-8s — and none of the 101 737-7s Boeing owes them.
@irlembrabat Ambassador Helena Nolan was pleased with Taoufiq Tounsi, Operations Ground Regional Manager at Ryanair, to discuss connectivity, cooperation, the importance of air links in strengthening people-to-people ties and economic engagement between Ireland and Morocco.
@krisvancleave Alaska used the big reveal of its first 787 with its new livery to announce its biggest Boeing order ever 105 737 Max10s and firming up its existing options for 5 787-10s. Airline hopeful for much delayed Max10 certification and deliveries to start by 2027.
Video Picks
A New Runway for Heathrow? With IAG CEO Luis Gallego
In this discussion, IAG CEO Luis Gallego shares his perspective on the ongoing debate around expanding London Heathrow with a potential new runway. The conversation explores the strategic importance of Heathrow as a global hub, the challenges of balancing airport capacity with environmental commitments, and how infrastructure constraints influence airline growth and network planning. Gallego also outlines why additional capacity could play a critical role in maintaining the competitiveness of the UK aviation sector in the years ahead.
Disruptions to Aviation Across the Middle East – Eoghan Corry on RTÉ News
Aviation analyst Eoghan Corry appeared on RTÉ News to discuss the impact of disruptions affecting aviation operations across the Middle East. The segment examines how geopolitical tensions and airspace restrictions are influencing airline routing, flight times and operational planning for carriers operating through the region. Corry highlights how airlines must quickly adapt to changing conditions, often rerouting flights and adjusting schedules to maintain safety and operational continuity.
Uber and Joby Aviation Partner on Future Air Taxi Services
Uber and Joby Aviation are advancing plans to introduce electric air taxi services aimed at transforming urban mobility. The partnership focuses on deploying electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft designed to offer faster travel across congested metropolitan areas. The collaboration reflects growing interest in advanced air mobility solutions, with companies exploring how air taxis could complement existing transport networks and reshape short-distance travel in major cities.
Acumen’s Take
This week’s developments reflect an aviation industry balancing growth with structural change. Fleet repositioning, regional connectivity investments and strong passenger demand signals point to continued recovery momentum across multiple markets. At the same time, infrastructure constraints, sustainability pressures and evolving airline strategies highlight the need for careful long-term planning. As networks adapt and capacity decisions evolve, asset flexibility and operational resilience remain central to the sector’s outlook.
