14 Oct 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 14th October 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:
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IrishAero News
Aer Lingus Takes Delivery of Fifth Airbus A321XLR
Aer Lingus, part of International Airlines Group (IAG), has received its fifth Airbus A321XLR, further strengthening its transatlantic network from Dublin. The aircraft, registered EI-XLW (MSN 12142) and named St Kealin / Caoilfhion, was delivered from Airbus’s Hamburg-Finkenwerder facility to Dublin Airport on 26 September 2025 under flight number EIN2395, arriving at 22:22 local time. The A321XLR fleet continues to play a pivotal role in Aer Lingus’s long-haul strategy, offering enhanced range, fuel efficiency, and passenger comfort while connecting Ireland to key North American destinations.
Boeing Delivers 200th 737 MAX to Ryanair Group
Boeing has delivered its 200th Boeing 737 MAX 8-200 “Gamechanger” to the Ryanair Group, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s ongoing fleet expansion. The aircraft, registered EI-ILK (MSN 67137), was handed over on 5 October 2025 and completed a non-stop delivery flight from Boeing Field (Seattle) to Dublin, touching down on runway 28L at 12:51 local time. The aircraft entered service the following day, operating its maiden commercial flight from Dublin to Paris Beauvais as RYR24. This delivery underscores Ryanair’s commitment to operating one of Europe’s youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets as part of its long-term sustainability and growth strategy.
CityJet Retires EI-FPT CRJ900 from Fleet
Skyliner Aviation reports that CityJet's Mitsubishi CRJ-900LR, registered El-FPT (msn 15438) was ferried on 30 September & 1 October 2025 from Valencia (VLC), Spain, to Dayton International Airport (DAY) in Ohio, USA.
Aircraft Update
N102BZ Embraer 190 c/n 19000055 Nordic Aviation Capital Ferried to Maastricht 03/10/25
An Embraer 190, registered N102BZ (MSN 19000055) and owned by Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC), was ferried to Maastricht on 3 October 2025. The aircraft’s movement marks part of NAC’s ongoing fleet transition and repositioning programme as it continues to optimise its global asset portfolio. The E190, a proven regional workhorse, is expected to undergo maintenance and preparation for future placement as demand for efficient regional jets remains steady across emerging and established markets.
N108BZ Embraer 190 c/n 19000070 Nordic Aviation Capital Ferried to Maastricht 03/10/25
Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC) ferried an Embraer 190, registered N108BZ (MSN 19000070), to Maastricht on 3 October 2025. The relocation forms part of NAC’s broader asset management and fleet optimisation strategy, reflecting ongoing activity within the regional jet leasing market. The aircraft is expected to undergo maintenance and reconfiguration in preparation for redeployment, supporting NAC’s commitment to maintaining operational readiness and meeting growing customer demand for versatile, fuel-efficient regional aircraft.
SE-RGF Airbus A320-214 c/n 3240 Braathens International Airways Ferried to Shannon 07/10/25
A Braathens International Airways Airbus A320-214, registered SE-RGF (MSN 3240), was ferried to Shannon on 7 October 2025. The aircraft’s transfer to Ireland is part of scheduled maintenance and potential remarketing preparations. Braathens continues to optimise its narrowbody fleet to align with seasonal demand and operational efficiency goals. Shannon’s growing reputation as a key European centre for aircraft transitions and technical services makes it a frequent destination for such fleet management activities.
Global Aviation News
Dubai Airshow 2025 to Unite Global Leaders in Aviation, Space, and Defence
Dubai is set to host one of the most influential gatherings in the aerospace calendar as industry pioneers, innovators, and decision-makers prepare for Dubai Airshow 2025. Scheduled under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the event will bring together leaders from across aviation, space, and defence sectors to discuss the technologies and partnerships shaping the industry’s future. With a strong focus on sustainability, digital transformation, and next-generation mobility, Dubai Airshow 2025 reaffirms the UAE’s status as a global hub for aerospace innovation and collaboration.
Emirates Expands London Heathrow Schedule to 48 Weekly Flights Ahead of Winter Rush
Emirates has announced a significant boost to its London Heathrow operations, adding six weekly flights from 26 October 2025, bringing its total to 48 weekly services. The expansion comes in response to record passenger demand and aims to offer travellers greater flexibility and convenience ahead of the busy winter travel season. The increased frequency underscores Emirates’ commitment to meeting market needs on one of its most popular routes, enhancing connectivity between Dubai and the UK as global travel momentum continues to rise.
Iberia COO Says Airbus A321XLR Has Exceeded Performance Expectations
Iberia Chief Operating Officer Ramiro Sequeira has praised the Airbus A321XLR, noting that the aircraft has “surpassed expectations” nearly a year into service with the Spanish flag carrier. Sequeira highlighted the A321XLR’s strong performance in fuel efficiency, operational reliability, and passenger comfort, positioning it as a key asset in Iberia’s long-haul narrowbody strategy. The aircraft has enabled Iberia to serve thinner transatlantic routes more efficiently, demonstrating the A321XLR’s growing importance in modern fleet planning across Europe’s legacy carriers.
British Airways Announces New Direct Flights to St. Louis, the Gateway to the West
British Airways has added St. Louis to its transatlantic network, marking it as the airline’s 27th U.S. destination and the only direct air link between the UK and the Missouri city. The new four-times-weekly service from London Heathrow will launch in April 2026, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of Route 66, which passes through St. Louis. With return fares starting from £529, the route reinforces British Airways’ continued expansion across the U.S. and follows frequency increases on key destinations such as Miami, San Diego, and Austin. The launch also strengthens connectivity between the UK and the American Midwest, enhancing business and leisure travel opportunities.
North American Capacity Declines as U.S. Weakness Offsets Gains in Mexico and Canada
Total airline seat capacity across North America is projected to experience a slight decline through Q4 2025 and Q1 2026, marking the first contraction since post-pandemic recovery began. According to Cirium data, the region will see 761.2 million seats, down 0.6% year-on-year, as U.S. carriers reduce underperforming routes amid slower GDP growth, high interest rates, and a strong U.S. dollar dampening inbound tourism. While the U.S. market representing the majority with 662 million seats is expected to fall 1.4%, Mexico and Canada will post moderate growth of 2.1% and 3.6%, respectively. Airlines are prioritising network optimisation and yield management over expansion to maintain profitability in a more challenging macroeconomic environment.
Norwegian Group Airlines Report Strong September Performance
The Norwegian Group has reported a robust performance for September 2025, carrying nearly 2.7 million passengers across its network amid increased capacity. Norwegian Air accounted for the majority of traffic with 2.3 million passengers, while its regional subsidiary Widerøe carried close to 400,000. The figures reflect steady travel demand across both short-haul and regional routes as the group continues to optimise its post-merger operations and strengthen its position in the Nordic aviation market.
Oman Airports Expands European Network and Strengthens Airline Partnerships
Oman Airports is accelerating its European market expansion, targeting underserved routes and strengthening partnerships with new airline operators, according to Director of Route Development Salim Al-Shukaili. The initiative forms part of Oman’s broader strategy to position Muscat and Salalah as key gateways between Europe, Asia, and Africa. By focusing on emerging European cities and developing tailored incentive programmes, Oman Airports aims to diversify its route portfolio, attract greater leisure and business traffic, and enhance the Sultanate’s connectivity as a growing aviation and tourism hub.
Irish Aviation News
ABL Aviation Delivers First Boeing 737-8 MAX to Copa Airlines
ABL Aviation, the Dublin-based aircraft investment management firm, has completed the delivery of its first Boeing 737-8 MAX (MSN 44200) to Copa Airlines, marking the start of a new partnership between the two companies. This aircraft is the first under a six-aircraft mandate, with the remaining deliveries scheduled across Q1 and Q2 2026. The brand-new jet, powered by CFM LEAP-1B27 engines, underscores ABL Aviation’s continued growth in global leasing and investment management, while supporting Copa Airlines’ fleet modernisation and efficiency strategy across its expanding regional and international network.
Albufeira Hosts ‘The Trade at Dublin’ Event to Strengthen Irish Tourism Links
Albufeira Tourism Board and Albufeira Council hosted ‘The Trade at Dublin’ event at Medley on Fleet Street, bringing together Irish trade representatives and media to promote the Algarve’s popular resort region. The event featured ten Albufeira suppliers, including hotels, golf providers, and local attractions, and was hosted by Alan Shortt, with Portuguese wines and cuisine highlighting the evening. Joana Machado provided an update on Albufeira’s tourism growth, citing expanded golf offerings and rising off-peak visitor numbers, supported by the destination’s reliable sunshine and world-class beaches. The initiative aims to strengthen ties with Irish travel partners and boost tourism from Ireland to Portugal.
ANCA Publishes 2024 Review on Dublin Airport Noise Mitigation Measures
The Aircraft Noise Competent Authority (ANCA) has released its 2024 review assessing the effectiveness of noise mitigation measures implemented at Dublin Airport. The report highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing aviation growth with environmental and community well-being, noting that while aviation contributes significantly to Ireland’s economy and connectivity, its environmental noise impact must be carefully managed. Some mitigation initiatives remain in transition due to ongoing planning and regulatory processes, but the review underscores the need for a robust, adaptive noise management framework that safeguards public health while supporting the sustainable development of Ireland’s busiest airport.
AerCap Reports 146 Major Asset Transactions in Q3 2025
Dublin-based AerCap Holdings N.V. (NYSE: AER), the world’s largest aircraft lessor, reported a robust 146 asset transactions during the third quarter of 2025. The company signed 66 lease agreements, including 14 widebody and 25 narrowbody aircraft, along with 15 engines and 12 helicopters. AerCap also purchased 35 assets, featuring 17 aircraft among them 8 Airbus A320neo Family and 9 Boeing 737 MAX jets as well as 11 engines and 7 helicopters.
Additionally, 45 sales were completed, comprising 40 aircraft, 4 engines, and 1 helicopter, alongside cash insurance settlement proceeds of €203 million and $234 million in interest related to assets lost in Russia. AerCap further repurchased 8.2 million shares worth approximately $981 million and declared a $0.27 per-share quarterly dividend, underscoring its strong capital position and shareholder return strategy.
Aer Lingus Reaches Record North American Capacity, Adding Nine Cities Since 2023
Aer Lingus has achieved a record level of North American capacity, with 3.8 million two-way seats scheduled for 2025 a 6% increase over its previous peak and more than 25% higher than pre-pandemic levels. According to Cirium data, the U.S. accounts for 96% of the airline’s transatlantic capacity, reflecting the strength of Aer Lingus’s North American network.
Since 2023, the Irish flag carrier has added nine new cities across the continent, further solidifying Dublin’s position as a key European gateway for U.S. travellers. While overall seat capacity across its global network grew modestly by 1% year-on-year, North America now represents 22% of Aer Lingus’s total capacity, highlighting its central role in the airline’s long-haul growth and strategic expansion plans.
Beyond Business Travel Welcomes Plan to Remove Dublin Airport Passenger Cap
Beyond Business Travel has voiced strong support for the Irish government’s decision to advance legislation removing the passenger cap at Dublin Airport, calling it a vital step toward unlocking Ireland’s full economic potential. The company emphasised that unrestricted access to the country’s primary international gateway is essential for facilitating global business travel, attracting investment, and supporting Ireland’s competitiveness as a leading international business hub. The move is seen as a positive signal for the corporate travel sector, enabling smoother connectivity and greater opportunities for international collaboration.
Cork Airport and MTU Launch Free Higher Education Skills Certificate for the Community
Cork Airport, in partnership with Munster Technological University (MTU) Access Service, has launched a new free Higher Education Skills Certificate titled “Starting Strong: Essential Skills for Higher Education.” The in-person, 5-credit course begins this month and aims to empower adult learners and students from underrepresented backgrounds by equipping them with key academic, digital, and personal development skills needed for success in higher education. Delivered through a universally designed, trauma-sensitive approach, the programme is a collaborative effort with MTU’s Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, supported by postgraduate students, academic staff, and the Access Service team. The initiative reflects Cork Airport’s commitment to community engagement and lifelong learning, fostering educational access and social inclusion within the region.
EU Aviation ETS a “Tax on European Efficiency,” Says Ryanair CEO
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has criticised the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) for aviation, calling it a “grievous tax on efficiency in Europe” that distorts energy costs and weakens the region’s global competitiveness. Speaking to Montel, O’Leary argued that the ETS unfairly penalises European airlines that invest in fuel-efficient aircraft while non-EU carriers flying into the bloc remain largely exempt. He urged policymakers to reform the system to ensure a level playing field and support sustainable growth, rather than imposing what he described as an ineffective financial burden on efficient operators within Europe’s aviation sector.
Tweet Picks
@IATA Did you know that due to a slowdown in deliveries that started in 2018 - and that will likely last at least until 2026 - 5,284 fewer aircraft have been delivered compared with the pre-pandemic trend?.
@jonostrower Boeing's 737 Max production increase, even with challenges with wing production in the factory during 2025, has remained close to its original planning from the close of last year.
@montelnews The EU aviation ETS is a “grievous tax on efficiency in Europe” and needs an overhaul asit distorts energy costs and undermines European competitiveness, Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary told Montel.
@RiyadhAir A new chapter of Saudi hospitality is about to unfold...Hafawa Lounge by Riyadh Air, an experience soon taking shape between Terminals 1 and 2 at King Khalid International Airport.
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Video Picks
Aviation in Africa Gathers Momentum as Investments Deepen
This feature explores the rapid evolution of Africa’s aviation sector as governments, investors, and private operators accelerate efforts to modernise infrastructure, expand fleets, and improve regional connectivity. Industry leaders highlight how strategic investments in airports, training, and technology are unlocking new growth opportunities across the continent. The video also examines Africa’s rising role in global air transport, driven by partnerships with international carriers and the emergence of new low-cost and regional airlines, signalling a transformative phase for the region’s aviation landscape.
AirAsia in Talks with China’s COMAC to Acquire Narrow-Body Jets – Tony Fernandes
In this interview, AirAsia Group CEO Tony Fernandes discusses the airline’s ongoing negotiations with China’s COMAC to potentially acquire narrow-body aircraft, signalling a strategic shift in fleet diversification. Fernandes highlights AirAsia’s interest in the C919 aircraft, citing its potential to enhance cost efficiency and reduce reliance on Western manufacturers. The conversation also delves into AirAsia’s growth strategy, post-pandemic recovery, and the broader implications of China’s entry into the global aircraft manufacturing market. The move could mark a major milestone for both COMAC and Asia’s low-cost aviation landscape.
Aurigny In The Air(waves) | What It Takes to Fly at Aurigny
This behind-the-scenes feature takes viewers inside Aurigny Air Services, showcasing what it takes to keep the Channel Islands’ flagship carrier flying smoothly. Through interviews with pilots, engineers, and cabin crew, the video highlights the dedication, skill, and teamwork that define daily operations at one of Europe’s longest-serving regional airlines. From pre-flight checks to passenger service and maintenance precision, it offers an engaging look at Aurigny’s commitment to safety, community connectivity, and operational excellence across its network.
Acumen’s Take
The global aviation industry continues to demonstrate remarkable adaptability amid shifting market dynamics, capacity adjustments, and evolving sustainability frameworks. While geopolitical, economic, and regulatory pressures persist, the sector’s focus on innovation, efficiency, and collaboration remains clear. Across leasing, manufacturing, and operations, stakeholders are pursuing smarter growth strategies built on technology, fleet modernisation, and workforce development. As investment confidence strengthens and new partnerships emerge, aviation’s long-term trajectory points toward resilient, sustainable, and globally interconnected progress.
