14 Jul 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 14th 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: Track the latest shifts in China’s fast-evolving aviation landscape—from fleet expansion and policy updates to market trends and cross-border leasing activity.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-2-july-2025-china-aviation-industry-newsletter - India Aviation Newsletter: Dive into India’s dynamic aviation sector, with updates on airline orders, infrastructure investments, regulatory changes, and growth strategies.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-2-july-2025-india-aviation-newsletter - Irish Aircraft Leasing Newsletter: Explore insights from the world’s leading aircraft leasing hub, featuring updates on leasing transactions, fund flows, asset trading, and industry shifts.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-2-july-2025-india-aviation-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/-3-july-2025-irish-aircraft-leasing-newsletter - North American Aviation Newsletter: Gain perspective on the North American market, covering fleet transitions, traffic trends, regulatory headlines, and cross-border opportunities.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-2-july-2025-north-american-aviation-newsletter
IrishAero News
Aer Lingus Expands North American Service
Aer Lingus has enhanced its transatlantic offering for the summer season, increasing frequencies to two major U.S. destinations. From 3 July to 24 October, flights from Dublin to Minneapolis-Saint Paul (MSP) have risen from six weekly to daily service with the addition of Saturday operations. Meanwhile, the Dublin–Philadelphia route now operates daily, with added flights on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Acumen’s Take
The ramp-up reflects strong transatlantic demand and reinforces Dublin’s role as a key gateway between Europe and North America. For lessors and network planners, Aer Lingus’ expansion signals renewed confidence in long-haul travel recovery and the value of deploying widebodies efficiently on high-yield, VFR- and business-heavy routes.
Boeing 777 Retrofit Debuts on Emirates’ Dublin Route
On 7 July, Emirates introduced its newly retrofitted Boeing 777-31H(ER) (A6-ENS, msn 41365) on the Dublin–Dubai route, offering passengers an elevated travel experience. The upgrade includes the airline’s new Premium Economy cabin, a refreshed Business Class, and enhanced interiors across all four classes, making Emirates the only airline to offer a four-class service from Dublin.
Acumen’s Take
This retrofit signals Emirates’ commitment to enhancing product consistency across its fleet while reinforcing Dublin’s value as a premium international departure point. For lessors and fleet strategists, such retrofitting investments highlight the growing importance of cabin innovation and passenger experience in driving competitive differentiation and long-haul yield.
Belfast International based 247 Aviation Expands Fleet with Pilatus PC-24
247 Aviation, headquartered at Belfast International Airport, has expanded its fleet with the delivery of a new Pilatus PC-24, registered G-SLVA (msn 541). The aircraft will operate under Silver Aviation, supporting both executive charter and aeromedical missions. This strategic addition enhances 247 Aviation’s capacity to deliver premium and specialised services across Northern Ireland and beyond.
Acumen’s Take
The introduction of the PC-24 reflects a growing emphasis on operational flexibility and regional accessibility in business aviation. For lessors and charter operators, this move underscores the value of multi-role light jets in meeting diverse demand profiles—from high-net-worth travel to urgent medical transport, particularly in regions with limited scheduled connectivity.
Neos Grows Fleet with Delivery of EI-RZH Boeing 737-8 MAX
Italian leisure airline Neos has taken delivery of a new Boeing 737-8 MAX, registered EI-RZH (MSN 66468), as part of its ongoing fleet renewal strategy. The aircraft was delivered through leasing partner Aviation Capital Group (ACG) and represents the final unit in a three-aircraft agreement between the two parties.
Acumen’s Take
This delivery highlights Neos’ continued investment in next-generation narrowbodies to support fuel-efficient operations across its medium-haul leisure network. For lessors and asset managers, it reinforces the strong market appeal of the 737 MAX among European leisure carriers looking to optimize capacity, operating costs, and environmental performance.
Ryanair Group eyes A320 opportunities for Lauda Europe
Ryanair Group has confirmed plans to replace Lauda Europe’s current fleet of 27 leased Airbus aircraft as their leases expire in 2028 and 2029. The group is exploring the acquisition of additional Airbus aircraft—potentially through a new order—despite tight supply and rising lease rates amid OEM delivery backlogs and limited leasing availability.
Acumen’s Take
Ryanair’s intent to stick with Airbus for Lauda signals a strategic shift from its otherwise Boeing-exclusive fleet philosophy, driven by operational needs and market realities. For lessors and OEMs, this presents an opportunity to engage with a typically Boeing-aligned operator, highlighting how supply constraints and fleet renewal timelines are influencing procurement decisions across the industry.
Aircraft Update
N67TC Boeing 737-8FH(F) Ferried to Shannon for ASL Airlines Ireland
Boeing 737-8FH(F), bearing manufacturer serial number 29668 and previously registered as N67TC, was ferried to Shannon on 21 May 2025. The aircraft is set to enter service with ASL Airlines Ireland under its new Irish registration, EI-HRC, marking its latest addition to the carrier’s growing freighter fleet.
Acumen’s Take
This ferry flight underscores ASL Airlines Ireland’s continued investment in 737 freighter conversions to support e-commerce and express cargo demand across Europe. For asset managers and conversion partners, the transaction highlights Shannon’s role as a strategic gateway for aircraft induction and the ongoing strength of the narrowbody freighter segment.
2-RBFA Boeing 737-4M0(F) Ferried to Sofia for Royal Aero
Boeing 737-4M0(F), manufacturer serial number 29204 and now registered as 2-RBFA, was ferried to Sofia on 2 July 2025. Previously operating as EI-STU, the aircraft has transitioned to Royal Aero’s portfolio, continuing its role in the freighter market.
Acumen’s Take
The repositioning of this classic freighter highlights the sustained utility of the 737-400F in niche cargo operations, particularly in secondary European markets. For lessors and operators, it underscores the ongoing demand for cost-effective, mid-capacity freighters amid limited availability of newer narrowbody conversions.
Global Aviation News
PLAY Issues Convertible Bond Worth ISK 2.4 Billion
Icelandic low-cost carrier PLAY has announced the successful placement of a convertible bond valued at ISK 2.4 billion (approximately USD 20 million). The bond has received binding, conditional subscription commitments from PLAY’s largest shareholders and other Icelandic investors, marking a key step in strengthening the airline’s financial foundation.
Acumen’s Take
This fundraising move underscores the importance of flexible financing instruments in sustaining airline liquidity during growth phases. For investors and lessors, PLAY’s ability to attract capital from existing stakeholders signals confidence in its long-term strategy and reinforces Iceland’s positioning as a competitive transatlantic low-cost hub.
US Government Lifts Restrictions on Export of GE Engines to COMAC
The U.S. government has lifted export restrictions on General Electric engines to China’s COMAC, signalling a softening of trade tensions between Washington and Beijing. The move clears the way for the delivery of CF34 engines for the ARJ21 and CFM LEAP-1C engines for the C919 programme—crucial for the continued progress of China’s indigenous commercial aircraft development.
Acumen’s Take
The easing of engine export controls is a pivotal development for COMAC and global OEMs, reaffirming the interdependence of U.S.–China aerospace supply chains. For lessors, manufacturers, and financiers, the decision reduces uncertainty around programme timelines and opens the door to broader aircraft placement and investment opportunities in China’s rapidly maturing aviation sector.
US Supreme Court Rejects American’s Appeal Over JetBlue Alliance
The US Supreme Court has declined to hear American Airlines’ appeal seeking to reinstate its Northeast Alliance with JetBlue Airways, effectively upholding the lower court’s decision to dismantle the partnership. Americans expressed disappointment, asserting that the alliance had enhanced competition and expanded consumer choice in the region.
Acumen’s Take
The ruling marks a definitive end to one of the most high-profile airline collaborations in recent U.S. aviation history. For carriers, lessors, and investors, the decision underscores heightened regulatory scrutiny around consolidation and joint ventures, signaling the need for caution in future alliance structuring, especially in high-density markets like the U.S. Northeast.
Why IAG believes sustainable aviation requires both collaboration and competition
In the Sustainability in the Air podcast, Aaron Robinson, Vice President of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at International Airlines Group (IAG), outlines IAG’s leadership in SAF adoption and its broader sustainability strategy. Drawing from his transatlantic experience at United Airlines and IAG’s European carriers, Robinson highlights the need for both collaboration across the aviation ecosystem and healthy competition to drive SAF uptake. He notes that more than half of global airlines have yet to begin using SAF—an alarming gap given industry decarbonisation targets.
Acumen’s Take
Robinson’s insights reinforce that real progress in sustainable aviation hinges on unified cross-sector action—from producers and regulators to financiers and airlines—while market dynamics can accelerate innovation. For lessors and stakeholders, SAF investment represents both a risk-mitigation tool and a competitive differentiator as sustainability becomes central to long-term asset value and operational viability.
Wizz Air Abu Dhabi Pauses Several Europe, Central Asia Routes
Wizz Air Abu Dhabi has announced a temporary suspension of multiple routes across Central and Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Caucasus as part of a wider network realignment strategy. The move comes amid efforts to optimise fleet deployment and adapt to shifting demand patterns and operational constraints.
Acumen’s Take
The route adjustments reflect a broader trend among low-cost carriers recalibrating networks to maintain profitability amid volatile geopolitical and economic conditions. For lessors and investors, such shifts underscore the need for agile asset management strategies, particularly in regions where traffic recovery is uneven and yield sustainability remains uncertain.
Irish Aviation News
FROSCH Ireland Announces Acquisition of Grogan Travel
FROSCH Travel Ireland has confirmed the acquisition of Grogan Travel, a respected and long-standing leisure travel agency based in Tuam, effective from 1st August 2025. Known for its strong client relationships and personalised service, Grogan Travel will continue operations under the FROSCH umbrella, maintaining its trusted legacy while benefiting from expanded resources and global reach.
Acumen’s Take
This acquisition reflects a broader consolidation trend within the travel sector, as agencies seek scale and digital capability to remain competitive. For aviation stakeholders, strengthened travel agency networks like FROSCH enhance distribution channels and deepen market intelligence, supporting route viability, passenger engagement, and long-term demand forecasting.
IATA DG Willie Walsh Comments on Misguided Solidarity Levy Proposal
IATA Director General Willie Walsh has strongly criticised the Global Solidarity Levies Task Force (GSLTF) for recommending a new levy on air transport to fund global development and climate efforts. Walsh labelled the proposal as “misguided,” arguing that it unfairly targets aviation—a sector already investing heavily in sustainability—while potentially undermining affordability and connectivity, especially for developing economies.
Acumen’s Take
The proposed solidarity levy risks distorting global aviation markets by disproportionately burdening airlines and passengers without addressing root sustainability challenges. For lessors, operators, and policymakers, IATA’s response reinforces the need for coordinated, sector-specific decarbonisation strategies rather than broad-based taxation that could stifle growth and investment in critical infrastructure and fleet renewal.
Emirates welcomes guests to unveil retrofitted Boeing 777 on Dublin route
Emirates recently hosted an exclusive event at Dublin Airport to celebrate the debut of its newly retrofitted Boeing 777 on the Dublin–Dubai route. Guests were invited aboard the aircraft for a first-hand look at the airline’s upgraded interiors, including the introduction of Premium Economy, refreshed Business Class, and enhanced features across all cabin classes, making Emirates the only airline to offer a four-class service from Dublin.
Acumen’s Take
The event not only showcased Emirates’ commitment to product excellence but also highlighted Dublin’s importance within the airline’s global network. For asset managers and lessors, investments in widebody retrofits signal ongoing competition around passenger experience and reinforce the long-term viability of enhanced legacy aircraft in high-yield markets.
Shannon Airliner Update
The latest Shannon Airliner Update offers a comprehensive look at recent aircraft activity at the airport, including transit movements, maintenance visits, and current aircraft stored or parked on-site. The update highlights Shannon’s continued role as a key technical stop and MRO hub, with a steady flow of commercial jets passing through for maintenance, storage, or onward delivery.
Acumen’s Take
Shannon’s ongoing activity underscores its strategic value within the global aircraft lifecycle, particularly for transitions, inspections, and storage. For lessors, MROs, and asset managers, the airport remains a vital node for aircraft redelivery, retrofit, and remarketing operations, supporting efficient fleet management across Europe and beyond.
World Star Aviation Celebrating the Launch of XMAL’s New Irish Platform, Renew Star
World Star Aviation has announced its pivotal role in facilitating Xiamen Aircraft Leasing’s (XMAL) acquisition of four Airbus A319s currently leased to easyJet. The transaction marks the launch of XMAL’s new Irish leasing platform, Renew Star, signalling the Chinese lessor’s strategic entry into the global leasing market through Ireland, a recognised centre of aviation finance.
Acumen’s Take
The establishment of Renew Star underlines Ireland’s continued appeal as a base for international leasing expansion, thanks to its favourable regulatory and tax environment. For the wider leasing community, XMAL’s entry via a high-profile transaction with easyJet reflects the growing ambitions of Asian lessors to scale globally, diversify portfolios, and engage in long-term asset management strategies rooted in Dublin.
40th Anniversary of Ryanair’s first flight from Waterford Airport
8 July 2025 marks the 40th anniversary of Ryanair’s inaugural flight from Waterford Airport to London Gatwick—a historic milestone that launched both Ryanair’s operational journey and Waterford’s entry into scheduled international aviation. The 1985 service exceeded expectations in its first week, boosting confidence in the airport’s future and laying the foundation for Ryanair’s evolution into Europe’s largest low-cost carrier.
Acumen’s Take
This anniversary not only commemorates a pivotal moment in Irish aviation history but also underscores the critical role of regional airports in shaping airline trajectories. For policymakers and stakeholders, it serves as a reminder of the long-term value regional connectivity holds in unlocking economic growth, supporting tourism, and fostering airline innovation.
Tweet Picks
@AviationWeek The #FAA plans to order #Boeing #737 and #757 operators to review maintenance or conduct inspections to ensure aircraft do not have improperly maintained landing gear components.
@hjelnaes Norwegian Q1 on 11JUL, what I expect (in NOK) ATH post covid revenues >10bn - Cask 0,51 - Cask ttl 0,73- yield ttl 0,92 - unit rev ttl 0,78 - Op res +530m.
@SeanM1997 PLAY to maintain its Reykjavík - Liverpool flights on an ad hoc basis. Flights will operate on Fridays/Mondays surrounding Liverpool FC home games only. Flights on sale between November 2025 and May 2026 on this basis.
@ValerieInsinna Some Air Force One news: Boeing has hired a former Northrop Grumman executive as its new program manager for the VC-25B.
Video Picks
Aviation, Politics and Profits with Michael Cawley – Phocuswright Europe 2025
In this engaging session from Phocuswright Europe 2025, former Ryanair Deputy CEO Michael Cawley shares his candid views on the intersection of aviation, politics, and profitability. He discusses regulatory challenges, the role of low-cost carriers in democratising air travel, and how political decisions continue to shape airline strategy and consumer access across Europe.
Acumen’s Take
Cawley’s insights shed light on the complex relationship between aviation and government policy—highlighting how political frameworks can either enable or hinder commercial viability. For lessors, operators, and investors, understanding these dynamics is essential for anticipating regulatory risks, pricing pressures, and long-term network planning decisions across competitive European markets.
Irish Emirates Cabin Crew Member From Clonlara
This video spotlights an Irish Emirates cabin crew member from Clonlara, County Clare, who shares her journey from rural Ireland to working aboard one of the world’s most prestigious airlines. She speaks about her training experience, life in Dubai, and the global exposure that comes with flying for Emirates, offering a personal glimpse into the growing international presence of Irish aviation professionals.
Acumen’s Take
Stories like this reflect Ireland’s deep-rooted connection to global aviation, not just through leasing and infrastructure, but also through its people. For the wider industry, it underscores the international demand for Irish-trained talent and highlights the soft power of aviation as a pathway for personal and professional global mobility.
SAS CEO: The Air France-KLM transaction has been long in the making
In this interview, SAS CEO Anko van der Werff discusses the strategic partnership with Air France-KLM, describing the transaction as a move years in the making. He highlights the alignment of long-term goals, shared network synergies, and the importance of stability and scale in a highly competitive European market, particularly as SAS moves toward joining the SkyTeam alliance.
Acumen’s Take
The SAS–Air France-KLM tie-up signals a significant reshaping of European airline alliances and consolidation patterns. For lessors and asset managers, such transactions present both opportunity and complexity, requiring careful monitoring of fleet integration, alliance-driven route optimisation, and the potential for aircraft redeployment across the newly aligned network.
