16 Feb 2026
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 16th February 2026
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 to Expand A320neo Fleet
Aer Lingus is set to receive a tenth Airbus A320neo after parent company International Airlines Group exercised a purchase option with Airbus, reinforcing the carrier’s narrowbody fleet renewal strategy. The aircraft appeared in Airbus’ February market update under Orders, Deliveries and In Operation – Europe, reflecting continued momentum in IAG’s transition away from older A320ceo models. The move forms part of a broader modernisation programme aimed at improving fuel efficiency, lowering operating costs, and reducing carbon intensity, as Aer Lingus strengthens capacity across its short- and medium-haul network.
Buzz Adds Seven Boeing 737NGs
Ryanair Group has transferred seven 189-seat Boeing 737-800 aircraft from Ryanair DAC to its Warsaw-based subsidiary Buzz, further optimising capacity across its multi-AOC structure. The move strengthens Buzz’s presence in Central and Eastern Europe while maintaining fleet commonality within the Group. Buzz now operates 84 Boeing 737 aircraft, including one 737-700, 21 737-8200s, and 62 737-800s, reinforcing its role in delivering operational flexibility and scalable growth across Ryanair’s network.
Widerøe Grows Dublin–Bergen Route for S26
Widerøe will increase frequencies on its Dublin–Bergen service for Summer 2026, operating up to six weekly departures at peak using its 110-seat Embraer E190-E2 aircraft. Since launching the route in April 2023 with two weekly flights, the Norwegian carrier has progressively expanded capacity in response to rising demand. The additional summer frequencies reflect sustained interest in Bergen and Norway’s fjord region, with the airline positioning the route to capture both leisure and inbound tourism flows during the busy mid-season period.
Aircraft Update
EI-DAD Boeing 737-8AS(F) (c/n 29938) – ASL Airlines Ireland
ASL Airlines Ireland’s Boeing 737-8AS(F), registered EI-DAD, was ferried from Shannon to Jacksonville via Keflavik and Bangor between 29–30 January 2026. The routing reflects ongoing fleet deployment and positioning activity within the cargo sector, as operators continue to optimise freighter utilisation across transatlantic and regional networks.
EI-ILV Boeing 737-8200 (c/n 67129) – Ryanair
Ryanair has taken delivery of Boeing 737-8200, registered EI-ILV (c/n 67129), which arrived in Dublin from Boeing Field on 11 February 2026. The aircraft becomes the 208th in Ryanair’s fleet, reinforcing the airline’s continued investment in high-density, fuel-efficient capacity as it expands across its European network.
Global Aviation News
Emirates Introduces Second Service to Tokyo Narita
Emirates will add a second daily service between Dubai and Tokyo Narita from 1 May 2026, operated by its retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER, further strengthening capacity on the Japan–UAE corridor. The additional frequency enhances schedule flexibility and improves connectivity in both directions, with afternoon arrivals into Narita supporting smoother domestic links across Japan and early-morning arrivals into Dubai enabling efficient onward connections to Europe, Africa and South America, reinforcing Emirates’ hub strategy and growing long-haul network reach.
End of an Era as Lufthansa Group Formally Closes Germanwings AOC
Lufthansa Group has officially closed the Air Operator Certificate of former low-cost subsidiary Germanwings, bringing a formal end to a brand that once played a pivotal role in shaping Germany’s no-frills aviation segment. Although Germanwings ceased independent passenger operations in April 2020 during the pandemic and was progressively integrated into Eurowings under a unified AOC structure, the final closure marks the completion of Lufthansa’s strategic consolidation of its short-haul operations, streamlining regulatory frameworks and reinforcing operational efficiency within the Group’s evolving low-cost model.
Etihad Guest Takes Off Across India with Massive Partner Expansion
Etihad Airways has significantly expanded its Etihad Guest loyalty programme in India by onboarding five major partners, including BOBCARD, The Postcard Hotel, Flipkart, Swiggy and Shoppers Stop, reinforcing India’s position as the fastest-growing market within the programme. With more than 13 million members globally and over 250,000 new sign-ups each month, Etihad Guest is adding six new members every minute, with India leading that growth trajectory. The expansion strengthens the airline’s engagement strategy by allowing members to earn and redeem miles through everyday spending across retail, dining and travel, deepening brand loyalty and embedding Etihad more firmly within the Indian consumer ecosystem.
Eurowings to Wet-Lease Six Airbus A320 Aircraft
Eurowings has finalised an agreement to wet-lease six Airbus A320 aircraft from Lithuanian ACMI specialist GetJet Airlines to support its Hamburg operations during the 2026 summer schedule. The aircraft will operate under Eurowings’ flight numbers and branding, providing additional seasonal capacity without requiring immediate fleet expansion. The move reflects a broader industry trend toward flexible capacity solutions, allowing carriers to respond to peak demand efficiently while managing capital exposure and operational risk within evolving European short-haul markets.
Flyadeal Says Powerplant Availability – Not MRO Slots – Tops Concern List
Flyadeal has identified engine availability, particularly shortages of CFM Leap powerplants, as its most significant operational constraint, with aircraft currently grounded despite otherwise stable access to MRO capacity. Speaking at Aviation Week’s MRO Middle East event, CEO Steven Greenway highlighted that while the airline avoided engine-related groundings last year, supply pressures have now resulted in revenue-generating aircraft sitting idle. The situation underscores the broader industry challenge around next-generation engine durability, spares availability and shop visit turnaround times, which continue to impact fleet utilisation and network reliability across multiple operators.
flynas and Syrian Civil Aviation Authority Partner to Launch “flynas Syria”
flynas has signed an agreement with the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority to establish a new joint venture airline, “flynas Syria,” with ownership structured at 51% Syrian Civil Aviation Authority and 49% flynas. Announced in Damascus in the presence of Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa, the initiative forms part of broader strategic investment cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Syria, with operations scheduled to commence in the fourth quarter of 2026. The launch is positioned to stimulate air traffic recovery, rebuild connectivity and strengthen Syria’s regional and international aviation links, reflecting a broader trend of cross-border partnerships aimed at accelerating market re-entry and network development in underserved regions.
Gama Aviation Opens New Business Aviation Centre at Sharjah/OMSJ
Gama Aviation has inaugurated a purpose-built Business Aviation Centre at Sharjah International Airport, marking a major upgrade to the airport’s private aviation infrastructure following a 12-year partnership with Sharjah Airport Authority. The facility features a VVIP terminal with premium lounges and hospitality services, dedicated aircrew amenities, and a 12,000 sqm three-bay hangar capable of accommodating large-cabin aircraft, alongside integrated fuelling, ground support and MRO capabilities to ensure efficient turnarounds. The development strengthens Sharjah’s positioning as a competitive regional hub for business aviation, enhancing service standards for aircraft owners and operators across the Middle East.
IAG and Its Airlines Shuffle CFO Roles Amid Leadership Transition
International Airlines Group has announced a series of senior finance leadership changes across the Group and its key subsidiaries, including British Airways, Iberia and Vueling, following the confirmation that Group CFO Nicholas Cadbury will step down in June 2026. The transition sees internal promotions into new Chief Financial Officer roles, signalling continuity in financial strategy and governance across the portfolio. The reshuffle comes at a time when disciplined capital allocation, fleet investment and cost control remain central to airline group performance, positioning IAG to maintain financial stability as it navigates evolving market conditions and growth plans.
Irish Aviation News
AerCap CEO Sees No Need for A220-500
AerCap CEO Aengus Kelly has stated that he does not see a compelling market case for a stretched Airbus A220-500 variant, suggesting that the current aircraft size spectrum already adequately serves airline requirements. Speaking candidly, Kelly indicated that there is no clear gap in the market that would justify the development of the larger A220 model. At the same time, he highlighted emerging opportunities beyond traditional aviation use, including the potential repurposing of aero-engines to power data centres, reflecting evolving thinking around asset utilisation and long-term value creation within the broader aerospace ecosystem.
Aer Lingus Introduces Passport Requirement for Cross-Channel Flights
Aer Lingus has introduced a new policy requiring all passengers travelling between Ireland and the United Kingdom to present a valid passport, aligning documentation standards more closely with international travel practices. The change is intended to streamline border procedures but may affect travellers who have traditionally relied on alternative forms of identification, such as driving licences, within the Common Travel Area. The airline has advised passengers to verify their documentation before travel to avoid disruption, bringing its policy in line with Ryanair, which has required passports on cross-channel services since 1998.
ASG Launches 2026 EASA ATPL Theory Scholarship
ASG has announced the launch of its 2026 EASA ATPL Theory Scholarship, offering one aspiring pilot the opportunity to complete the full Airline Transport Pilot Licence theory course, valued at €2,995, free of charge. Delivered by a leading EASA Approved Training Organisation, the programme provides the comprehensive preparation required to sit the 13 ATPL theoretical examinations, a fundamental milestone on the pathway to a commercial airline career. The initiative reinforces Ireland’s ongoing commitment to supporting the next generation of aviation professionals and strengthening the country’s role in global pilot training.
ASL Aviation Holdings Sells Interest in FlySafair to South African Investment Conglomerate
Dublin-based ASL Aviation Holdings has confirmed the sale of its stake in Johannesburg-headquartered low-cost carrier FlySafair to Harith General Partners and its affiliates, with the transaction subject to customary regulatory approvals, including clearance from the South African Competition Commission. Harith, a leading Pan-African infrastructure investor with more than USD 3 billion in assets under management, brings significant regional investment expertise to the airline. The divestment reflects ongoing portfolio optimisation within ASL Aviation Holdings while signalling continued confidence in the long-term growth prospects of South Africa’s low-cost aviation market.
CDB Aviation Delivers Three Boeing 737-8 Aircraft to WestJet
CDB Aviation has delivered three Boeing 737-8 aircraft to Calgary-based carrier WestJet, bringing the total number of aircraft from the lessor currently on lease to the airline to eight. The deliveries from CDB Aviation’s orderbook further strengthen WestJet’s narrowbody fleet with next-generation aircraft offering improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions and enhanced passenger features, including satellite-supported WiFi. The transaction highlights continued demand for modern narrowbody assets and reinforces Ireland’s position at the centre of global aircraft leasing activity.
Click&Go Holidays Partners with Getaways Ireland to Launch Getaway Holidays
Click&Go Holidays has entered into a strategic partnership with Getaways Ireland to introduce a new brand, Getaway Holidays, expanding its portfolio of international travel offerings. The collaboration combines the strengths of two established Irish travel providers, focused on delivering enhanced choice, competitive value and curated holiday experiences to the Irish market. The move reflects continued resilience and innovation within Ireland’s outbound travel sector as operators position themselves to capture growing consumer demand for packaged international travel.
Freight Rose to the Occasion in 2025, Says Walsh
IATA has reported a solid performance for the global air cargo market in 2025, with full-year demand rising 3.4% year-on-year, and international operations increasing 4.2%, while capacity grew 3.7% overall. According to IATA Director General Willie Walsh, strong e-commerce activity underpinned volumes despite tariff pressures, shifting US trade dynamics and ongoing policy uncertainty, with cargo operators adapting to front-loaded shipments and strengthening Asia-Europe flows as US-Asia trade softened. December closed the year on a positive note, with global demand up 4.3% compared to December 2024, highlighting air freight’s continued resilience and strategic importance to global supply chains.
Frontier Announces Fleet Optimisation Transaction with AerCap
Frontier Group Holdings has entered into a non-binding agreement with Dublin-based AerCap for the early return of 24 A320neo aircraft, with the transactions expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2026, alongside plans for 10 future sale-leaseback arrangements covering deliveries in 2028 and 2029. The restructuring will allow Frontier to realign its fleet profile while enhancing productivity and cost efficiency, reflecting the continued role of Irish lessors such as AerCap in enabling strategic fleet optimisation and capital flexibility for global airline operators.
Ryanair Fares to and from Malta Set to Stay Flat or Ease Slightly, CEO Says
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has indicated that fares to and from Malta are expected to remain stable or decrease slightly, even as average ticket prices across Europe are projected to rise by two to three per cent. Speaking during a visit to Malta, O’Leary noted that while fares declined by seven per cent in the 2024 fiscal year and subsequently rose by nine per cent in the current financial year ending March 2026, Malta’s pricing outlook reflects Ryanair’s market strategy to sustain demand and competitiveness. The comments underline the airline’s dynamic yield management approach as it balances cost pressures with regional growth objectives.
Tweet Picks
@hjelnaes IndiGo seems to revise S26 flight schedules between India and Europe. Operated by damp leased B789’s from Norse. 6 B789’s are leased from Norse, representing 50% of Norse fleet.
@hjelnaes SAS is looking for more widebodies, say CEO Anko van der Werff. SAS in talks with Boeing and Airbus on widebody order, Bloomberg News reports. Copenhagen Global Hub strategy by SAS has been successful and a few more A350 and A330neo will fit, in my view!.
@hjelnaes Soutwest is on a good flightplan. Customer loyalty is key metric for success, tops the doctrine of «always offer the lowest fare».
@LRosenblatt_ Boeing will move engineering work for the 787 Dreamliner from the Puget Sound region to South Carolina.
@RAeSTimR Airbus estimates that the A220 could potentially open up +550 long & thin routes as Asia-Pacific shifts to next phase of airline networks. #SingaporeAirshow #avgeek
Video Picks
Emirates-Owned Wolgan Valley Will Reopen Later This Year
Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley, the luxury conservation-based resort in Australia’s Greater Blue Mountains region, is set to reopen later this year following an extensive refurbishment. The relaunch marks a significant milestone for Emirates’ premium hospitality portfolio, reinforcing its strategy of extending the brand experience beyond aviation into high-end, experience-led travel and eco-tourism. The reopening is expected to further strengthen Australia’s luxury tourism appeal while reconnecting the property with international travellers.
Eoghan Corry on US Visa Changes – RTÉ Behind the Story Podcast
In this episode of RTÉ’s Behind the Story podcast, travel journalist Eoghan Corry discusses recent changes to US visa policies and what they could mean for Irish travellers and the broader transatlantic travel market. The conversation explores evolving entry requirements, administrative adjustments and the potential operational impact on airlines serving US routes, offering timely insight into how policy shifts can influence passenger flows and demand patterns.
flyadeal Delivers Record 2025 Performance
This video highlights flyadeal’s record performance in 2025, outlining the airline’s operational growth, network expansion and strengthened market position within Saudi Arabia’s rapidly evolving aviation sector. The update reflects the carrier’s focus on fleet growth, improved utilisation and disciplined cost management, positioning it as a key player in supporting the Kingdom’s broader aviation and tourism ambitions. The presentation offers insight into how low-cost carriers in the region are scaling sustainably while responding to rising passenger demand.
Acumen’s Take
Across the sector, the signal is clear: demand is no longer the constraint, execution is. Airlines, lessors, and airports are shifting focus from headline growth to fleet availability, capital discipline, and operational resilience. Capacity decisions are being shaped as much by supply chains and infrastructure limits as by market appetite. The next advantage will come from those who can align funding, assets, and networks without overextending in a still-tight operating environment.
