15 Oct 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 15th 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
N706SV ATR72-212A(600) c/n 1185 JAH2022A ATR72 MSN 1185 LLC Ferried Salina–Bangor–Goose Bay–Reykjavik–Shannon–Casablanca 27/09/25–01/10/25
An ATR72-212A(600), registered N706SV (MSN 1185) and owned by JAH2022A ATR72 MSN 1185 LLC, was ferried from Salina to Casablanca between 27 September and 1 October 2025, routing via Bangor, Goose Bay, Reykjavik, and Shannon. The aircraft’s movement signifies part of ongoing regional fleet repositioning activity. The ATR72-600, recognised for its fuel efficiency and reliability on short-haul routes, remains a sought-after asset among regional operators optimising connectivity and cost performance across developing markets.
N1126V ATR72-212A(600) c/n 1126 Loganair Delivered Billund–Glasgow 07/10/25
An ATR72-212A(600), registered N1126V (MSN 1126), was delivered to Loganair on 7 October 2025, completing its ferry flight from Billund to Glasgow. The delivery strengthens Loganair’s regional fleet as the airline continues to enhance efficiency and reliability across its UK and European routes. The ATR72-600’s proven fuel economy and performance on short sectors make it a valuable addition, supporting Loganair’s ongoing modernisation and sustainability objectives.
VT-IJC Airbus A320-271N c/n 8414 VivaAerobus Ferried to Monterrey via Shannon 09/10/25
An Airbus A320-271N, registered VT-IJC (MSN 8414) and destined for VivaAerobus, was ferried to Monterrey via Shannon on 9 October 2025. The aircraft’s repositioning reflects ongoing fleet transitions within the low-cost carrier segment as operators continue to expand capacity ahead of the winter travel season. Equipped with Pratt & Whitney PW1100G-JM engines, the A320neo offers significant fuel burn reduction and enhanced range, aligning with VivaAerobus’s strategy to operate one of the most modern and efficient narrowbody fleets in Latin America.
Global Aviation News
Aegean Airlines Expands Fleet with New ATR 72-600, Two More on Order
Toulouse, 7 October 2025 Aegean Airlines, via its regional subsidiary Olympic Air, has taken delivery of a new ATR 72-600 as part of its ongoing fleet renewal and network optimisation programme. The addition reinforces the carrier’s commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and operational efficiency across Greece and neighbouring markets. In a further endorsement of ATR’s advanced turboprop technology, Aegean has also placed a direct order for two additional ATR 72-600 aircraft, with deliveries slated for December 2026, underscoring its long-term investment in sustainable, fuel-efficient regional operations.
Air Service One Talks with Mathias Richter, Manager Aviation Marketing, Traffic Forecast & Analytics, Münster/Osnabrück Airport
Air Service One recently interviewed Mathias Richter, Manager of Aviation Marketing, Traffic Forecast & Analytics at Münster/Osnabrück Airport (FMO), highlighting the airport’s impressive post-pandemic recovery and strategic growth initiatives. Richter discussed how FMO continues to compete effectively with Germany’s larger airports through targeted route development, infrastructure upgrades, and strong airline partnerships.
BA Confirms India Expansion as UK Trade Mission Lands in Country
8 October 2025 British Airways has announced plans to introduce a third daily service between London Heathrow and Delhi in 2026, reinforcing its commitment to the growing India–UK market. The announcement coincides with the arrival of a UK trade mission in India, highlighting strengthening bilateral economic and cultural ties. As trade and travel demand between the two nations continue to expand, British Airways is also exploring further growth opportunities across key Indian cities, positioning itself to capture increasing passenger and cargo flows in one of the world’s fastest-developing aviation markets.
Boeing 737-7 Reactivation Marks MAX Certification Push
Boeing has reactivated flight testing for the 737-7, signalling renewed momentum toward certification of its long-delayed MAX family variants, the 737-7 and 737-10. After a fluctuating pace over the past two years, the recent surge in testing activity suggests Boeing is entering the final phase of the certification process. The successful approval of these models will complete the MAX lineup, broadening Boeing’s narrowbody portfolio and enhancing its competitiveness in the global single-aisle market amid rising airline demand for efficient, next-generation aircraft.
Braathens Regional Airlines Enters Swedish Bankruptcy Protection
10 October 2025 Braathens Regional Airlines (BRA) and its subsidiary have entered financial restructuring under Swedish law to protect and stabilise their turboprop operations. The move is designed to reduce costs through renegotiated client agreements and streamlined ATR fleet management, ensuring the airline’s long-term sustainability. Despite the restructuring, operations supporting ACMI partners SAS Scandinavian Airlines and Austrian Airlines will continue without disruption, reflecting BRA’s focus on maintaining service reliability while navigating its financial recovery plan.
Emirates Introduces Premium Economy to Kuala Lumpur on Newly Retrofitted Boeing 777
Kuala Lumpur, 24 September 2025 Emirates has launched its Premium Economy service on the Kuala Lumpur route with the deployment of a newly retrofitted Boeing 777 operating flights EK346 and EK347. The upgraded aircraft features four refreshed cabin classes, offering enhanced comfort and design consistency across its global network. This milestone underscores Emirates’ ongoing commitment to elevating the passenger experience and expanding Premium Economy availability to key destinations, reflecting growing demand for greater comfort and choice in long-haul travel.
Erik Thun AB Sells Täby Air Maintenance AB and Three Saab 2000s to Lars Wingefors AB
Erik Thun AB has entered into an agreement to sell its Örebro-based maintenance subsidiary, Täby Air Maintenance AB (TAM), along with three Saab 2000 aircraft, to Lars Wingefors AB (LW AB). The transaction marks a strategic step in TAM’s evolution, providing the company with a new owner focused on expanding its operations across both civil and defence aviation sectors. The acquisition underscores LW AB’s growing interest in aviation services and fleet assets, positioning TAM for future growth and diversification under its new leadership.
Europe’s Winter Capacity Hits Record High
Europe’s airline industry is poised for a record-breaking winter, with available seat capacity projected to rise nearly 7% across Q4 2025 and Q1 2026, according to Cirium data. Carriers are set to offer 745.3 million seats during the season, an 8.8% increase compared to the pre-pandemic winter of 2018/19. The surge underscores the sector’s continued resilience amid economic headwinds, operational challenges, and geopolitical tensions. The strong capacity growth highlights sustained travel demand and airlines’ confidence in Europe’s robust passenger market despite broader global uncertainties.
Irish Aviation News
Aer Lingus Adjusts Cleveland Flight Schedule for 2026, Focuses on Weekend Travel
Cleveland, Ohio – Aer Lingus has confirmed adjustments to its Cleveland–Dublin service for 2026, extending the route while tailoring it toward weekend travel demand. The airline will operate six weekly flights, replacing its Thursday service with a Saturday departure from late March through late October. While the route will not transition to a daily schedule as previously speculated, the modification aligns with passenger travel patterns and reinforces Aer Lingus’s continued commitment to strengthening transatlantic connectivity between Ireland and the U.S. Midwest.
Aergo Capital Announces the Acquisition of Two Boeing 737-800 Aircraft
Dublin, 2 October 2025 – Aergo Capital Ltd. has completed the acquisition of two Boeing 737-800 aircraft, bearing MSNs 37242 and 37264, from Pulsar Aero Global, with both assets currently on lease to TUI. The transaction marks another milestone in Aergo’s active portfolio growth and ongoing partnerships with leading global lessors and operators. CEO Fred Browne expressed satisfaction with the deal, highlighting the collaborative effort involved and reaffirming Aergo’s commitment to expanding its narrowbody portfolio while maintaining strong relationships with key airline clients.
AerSale Delivers Second Boeing 757-200 PCF to SkyGuard Cargo Airlines
AerSale® (NASDAQ: ASLE) has delivered a second Boeing 757-200 Passenger-to-Freighter (PCF) aircraft to SkyGuard Cargo Airlines, further strengthening their partnership. The Uzbek carrier, which focuses on e-commerce, postal, and courier logistics, continues to expand its fleet as part of a wider strategy to position Uzbekistan as a pivotal regional cargo hub linking Central Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The delivery underscores AerSale’s expertise in aircraft conversion and aftermarket solutions, supporting the growing global demand for efficient mid-size freighter capacity.
AFG Appoints COO
AFG Aviation Group has announced the appointment of Mr. Shiekuma Gemade as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. In his new role, Mr. Gemade will oversee AFG’s global operational strategy, driving efficiency and alignment across its aviation asset management, leasing, and technical service divisions. The appointment reflects AFG’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team as it continues to expand its global footprint and enhance service delivery for clients across the commercial aviation sector.
daa Welcomes Planning Approval for MetroLink
daa, the operator of Dublin Airport, has welcomed the granting of planning permission for the MetroLink project, which will create a direct and efficient transport connection between Swords, Dublin Airport, and the city centre. The project is set to significantly improve accessibility for both passengers and airport staff. A daa spokesperson emphasised the importance of fast-tracking the development, describing MetroLink as vital to supporting Dublin Airport’s growth beyond 40 million passengers annually and strengthening its role as Ireland’s primary international gateway, driving tourism, trade, and economic development.
Irish Aircraft Register Update – September 2025
Ireland’s aircraft register saw strong activity in September 2025, led by Ryanair’s addition of ten new Boeing 737-8200s as Boeing deliveries resumed. Aer Lingus also added two Airbus A321neos EI-XLU and EI-XLW while Emerald Airlines’ ATR 72-600 EI-FSL transferred to the UK register as G-CMFL. Several Airbus A320 family aircraft were deregistered following transfers to overseas operators, including Air Cairo and LATAM Chile. The update highlights Ireland’s continued importance as a global hub for aircraft registration, leasing, and transition activity.
Irish Government to Fund Flights Between Dublin and Derry
The Irish Government has confirmed new funding to reinstate regular air services between Dublin and Derry under the Shared Island initiative. Announced by Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers, the route will resume operations in 2026, supported by a broader investment package that doubles funding for cross-border projects to €1 billion through 2035. The move aims to strengthen regional connectivity, boost economic cooperation, and enhance accessibility between Northern Ireland and the Republic, reinforcing aviation’s role in supporting all-island integration and development.
Ryanair NS26 A320 Network Additions – 05OCT25
Ryanair has expanded its Airbus A320 operations for the Northern Summer 2026 season, adding new routes from Palma de Mallorca, Vienna, and Zadar. The schedule features 18 additions, including Zadar–Cork, Vienna–Mykonos, and Palma–Belfast International. The network growth highlights Ryanair’s continued fleet flexibility and focus on strengthening connectivity across key European leisure destinations.
Shannon Airliner Update
Flying in Ireland’s latest Shannon Airliner Update reports a quieter period of activity over the summer months, with fewer maintenance movements and storage changes noted. Among the highlights, Brussels Airlines’ Airbus A319-112, formerly registered OO-SSQ (MSN 3790) and now OE-IDN under DVB Bank ownership, continues post-maintenance testing following multiple local air and flight tests. Shannon remains a key European hub for aircraft storage, maintenance, and transition work, supporting lessors and airlines with technical services and asset management throughout the year.
Tweet Picks
@AviationWeek "There's no way they can get the E2 into U.S. regional fleets" - scope clauses are keeping airlines locked out of newer, efficient aircraft.
@business Boeing’s 777X is slated to fly commercially for the first time in early 2027 instead of next year.
@businessposthq Pilot Path, a Dublin-based pilot training business, expects revenue to grow to €1.3 million this year, and the business to achieve profitability by the end of 2026.
@ByERussell Airlines, at least full-service ones, are eager for more of Airbus' new long-range narrowbody, the A321XLR. At @AerLingus, "there [is] a lot more things we could do with more aircraft." But getting more XLRs, and the seats on them, is the challenge.
Video Picks
Aviation Policy in the 119th Congress Panel
This discussion brings together leading policymakers, industry experts, and regulatory officials to examine key aviation priorities before the 119th U.S. Congress. The panel explores legislative efforts shaping safety oversight, infrastructure investment, sustainability, and emerging technologies such as advanced air mobility. With perspectives from both government and industry, the session provides valuable insight into how U.S. aviation policy is evolving to support innovation, competitiveness, and long-term growth across the sector.
Behind Qantas’ Big International Bet | CEO Cam Wallace Interview
In this in-depth interview, Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace discusses the airline’s ambitious global expansion strategy and its renewed focus on long-haul growth. Wallace delves into Qantas’ fleet modernisation plans, the recovery of international demand, and the strategic importance of ultra-long-haul routes under Project Sunrise. He also shares insights on sustainability, network competitiveness, and the role of premium travel in shaping the carrier’s post-pandemic trajectory.
Boeing 777X Said to Slide Into 2027, Driving Billions in Charges
This feature examines Boeing’s reported delay of the 777X programme, now expected to enter service in 2027, and the financial impact of the shift. Industry analysts discuss how the extended timeline could result in billions in additional costs while influencing production schedules and airline delivery plans. The video also explores broader implications for Boeing’s widebody strategy, certification challenges, and market competition as the manufacturer works to bring its next-generation long-haul aircraft to fruition.
Acumen’s Take
The aviation sector continues to demonstrate resilience and forward momentum, with strategic investments, operational adjustments, and evolving fleet dynamics shaping the months ahead. Across airlines, lessors, and manufacturers, there is a clear emphasis on sustainability, efficiency, and technological advancement as key drivers of recovery and competitiveness. Market confidence remains robust despite economic and regulatory challenges, underscoring aviation’s critical role in global connectivity and trade. As activity intensifies across regions, collaboration and innovation will remain central to ensuring long-term, sustainable industry growth.
