16 Jul 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 16th 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
OE-IAU Airbus A320-214 Delivered to Condor
Airbus A320-214, manufacturer serial number 5661 and registered as OE-IAU, was delivered to Condor on 4 July 2025 at Frankfurt. The aircraft joins the German leisure carrier’s fleet as part of its ongoing network and capacity expansion ahead of the peak summer travel season.
Acumen’s Take
Condor’s acquisition of this A320 highlights the continued role of mid-life narrowbodies in supporting high-demand seasonal routes. For lessors and asset managers, such deliveries underscore the strong secondary market appetite for A320ceos, particularly among European leisure operators focused on cost-effective fleet augmentation.
5N-CEF Embraer 190 Delivered to Air Peace
Embraer 190, manufacturer serial number 19000029 and now registered as 5N-CEF, was delivered to Nigerian carrier Air Peace on 22 June 2025 in Lagos. The aircraft, formerly operating under registration OE-LMN, strengthens Air Peace’s regional fleet as it continues to enhance domestic and West African connectivity.
Acumen’s Take
This delivery highlights the growing importance of regional jets like the E190 in African aviation, where right-sized capacity and route flexibility are critical. For lessors and fleet planners, it reflects continued demand in emerging markets for proven, efficient platforms capable of servicing underdeveloped or high-frequency corridors.
Global Aviation News
CEA's Broader Expansion Into Italy Opens a New Chapter of China-Italy Aviation Cooperation
China Eastern Airlines (CEA) has officially launched its new direct Milan–Shanghai route, celebrated during a promotional event in Milan on 3 July 2025. Speaking at the event, CEA Chairman Wang Zhiqing highlighted the service as more than just a transport link, framing it as a symbol of deepening cooperation and cultural exchange between China and Italy.
Acumen’s Take
CEA’s expansion into Italy reinforces the strategic importance of Sino-European air connectivity amid growing demand for business and leisure travel. For lessors, operators, and infrastructure stakeholders, such long-haul developments offer fresh opportunities in widebody deployment, bilateral traffic rights, and cross-border aviation partnerships in high-growth markets.
New IndiGo B787 Routes Set to Reshape India–Europe Cargo Flows
IndiGo has expanded its long-haul operations with the launch of a new direct Mumbai–Manchester route on 1 July 2025, operated thrice weekly using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner wet-leased from Norse Atlantic Airways (registered LN-FNC). The move marks a significant step in IndiGo’s international growth strategy and is poised to enhance both passenger and cargo connectivity between India and the UK.
Acumen’s Take
The new route underscores IndiGo’s shift toward long-haul capability, opening fresh trade lanes and cargo capacity between South Asia and Europe. For lessors and freight operators, the deployment of widebody aircraft on emerging long-haul routes from non-traditional hubs like Mumbai offers opportunities for strategic placements, interline partnerships, and revenue diversification in a high-demand corridor.
Norwegian Air Shuttle Signs Agreement to Purchase 3 Boeing 737-800 Aircraft
Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA has announced the acquisition of three Boeing 737-800 aircraft currently leased to the airline, marking a strategic move to strengthen fleet ownership. The deal supports Norwegian’s long-term goals of enhancing financial flexibility, reducing overall ownership costs, and reinforcing control over its operational assets.
Acumen’s Take
This transaction reflects a broader industry trend of airlines shifting toward greater asset ownership to improve balance sheet strength and mitigate lease exposure. For lessors and investors, Norwegian’s move signals heightened competition in asset retention and underscores the appeal of mature narrowbodies in supporting cost-effective, short- to medium-haul operations.
Performance of European airports in May ‘bodes well’ for summer peak
New data reveals that passenger traffic across European airports rose by 3.4% in May 2025 compared to the same period last year, placing volumes 8% above pre-pandemic levels. While disparities remain between hubs and regional airports, the overall trend signals robust recovery and positive momentum heading into the critical summer travel season.
Acumen’s Take
The continued growth in European airport traffic reflects strong demand resilience and effective capacity management across the continent. For airlines, lessors, and infrastructure stakeholders, this bodes well for network optimisation, aircraft utilisation, and revenue generation, particularly as summer peaks continue to serve as key performance drivers across the aviation value chain.
Portugal Set for Record Tourism Year, WTTC Research Suggests
Portugal is on track to experience a record-breaking year in international tourism, with inbound visitor spend projected to contribute approximately €62.7 billion to the national economy, representing around 21.5% of the country’s GDP. The latest figures from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) underscore Portugal’s rising status as a premier global travel destination.
Acumen’s Take
Portugal’s tourism boom presents strong upside for airlines and lessors targeting Southern Europe, particularly in leisure-driven markets. The sustained growth in travel demand supports additional seasonal capacity, route development, and widebody utilisation, reinforcing the strategic importance of aligning fleet deployment with emerging high-yield tourism corridors.
Riyadh Air outlines network growth strategy
Riyadh Air has revealed its initial network strategy ahead of its late 2025 launch, with plans to serve two European cities as its first destinations. CEO Tony Douglas stated that the airline aims to receive one aircraft and add two new routes each month, signalling an ambitious ramp-up focused on rapid international expansion and fleet growth.
Acumen’s Take
Riyadh Air’s aggressive rollout highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to transforming into a global aviation hub under Vision 2030. For lessors, OEMs, and infrastructure partners, the carrier’s expansion offers substantial opportunities in fleet placement, strategic partnerships, and access to new high-growth corridors across Europe, Asia, and beyond.
SkyWest, Inc. Orders GE Aerospace Engines to Power New Embraer 175 Aircraft
SkyWest, Inc. has placed a significant order with GE Aerospace for CF34-8E engines, including spares, to power its 60 new Embraer 175 regional jets. The deal builds on SkyWest’s longstanding relationship with GE, as the CF34 engine already powers the airline’s existing fleet of over 600 aircraft, underscoring a commitment to reliability and fleet consistency.
Acumen’s Take
This engine order reinforces the E175’s position as a cornerstone of U.S. regional aviation and highlights SkyWest’s continued investment in proven, efficient platforms. For lessors and MRO providers, the partnership between SkyWest and GE signals stable aftermarket demand and long-term asset viability, further strengthening the E175’s value in the global secondary market.
Irish Aviation News
Denise Mangan-Fahy Appointed CEO of Shannon Engine Support
Shannon Engine Support (SES) has announced the appointment of Denise Mangan-Fahy as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective September 2025. SES, jointly owned by AerCap and Safran Aircraft Engines, is a global leader in spare engine leasing. Mangan-Fahy succeeds Julie Dickerson, who retires after more than a decade of impactful leadership.
Acumen’s Take
This leadership transition marks a new chapter for SES at a time when engine leasing is becoming increasingly critical to fleet resilience and operational flexibility. For lessors, airlines, and MRO providers, Mangan-Fahy’s appointment reinforces SES’s strategic importance in the global aftermarket and reflects continued confidence in Ireland’s aviation talent pool and leasing ecosystem.
IHF Presses TDs & Senators on VAT Rate, PRSI & Business Costs
The Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) hosted a ‘Supporting Irish Tourism Hospitality’ briefing for TDs and Senators, highlighting the urgent need to address rising business costs, VAT rates, and PRSI burdens. The event brought together hoteliers from across Ireland to discuss the challenges facing the tourism sector and the policy measures needed to safeguard the country’s largest indigenous industry, which supports over 270,000 jobs.
Acumen’s Take
Tourism policy directly influences aviation demand, particularly for inbound and regional travel. Rising operational costs in hospitality can impact Ireland’s competitiveness as a destination. For airlines, airports, and lessors, a strong tourism sector is critical to sustaining route viability and load factors, underscoring the need for coordinated policy advocacy across the travel ecosystem.
Ryanair's Michael Cawley on tech investment and AI philosophy
Speaking at Phocuswright Europe 2025, former Ryanair CFO and Deputy CEO Michael Cawley emphasised the airline’s pragmatic approach to adopting artificial intelligence (AI). True to its low-cost DNA, Ryanair will focus on AI applications that deliver measurable efficiency—particularly in customer service, revenue management, and operations—rather than chasing hype or speculative innovation.
Acumen’s Take
Cawley’s comments reaffirm Ryanair’s philosophy of technology as a tool for cost control and performance optimisation. For digital providers and lessors, this signals a clear demand for AI solutions that are results-driven, scalable, and operationally grounded, offering opportunities for partnerships that align with Ryanair’s rigorous value-based framework.
Stratos Delivers an A330-300 to Amazon for P2F Conversion
Stratos has announced the delivery of an Airbus A330-300 to Amazon on 9 July 2025, marking another milestone in its partnership with the e-commerce giant. The aircraft will undergo a passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversion as part of Amazon’s ongoing expansion of its dedicated cargo fleet, reinforcing its investment in global logistics infrastructure.
Acumen’s Take
This delivery reflects the growing demand for widebody P2F conversions, driven by sustained e-commerce growth and the need for high-volume, long-haul freight capacity. For lessors and asset managers, the A330-300 continues to gain traction as a versatile and economically attractive platform in the evolving freighter market. Stratos’ role in this deal also highlights the strategic alignment between asset investment firms and logistics-driven operators.
Trinity’s Ground-Breaking Carbon Capture Tech Takes Off at Dublin Airport
Innovative carbon capture technology developed by Trinity College Dublin is now being trialled at Dublin Airport. The system, which extracts CO₂ directly from the atmosphere, is being tested for its potential application across the aviation and e-fuel sectors. The project aims to demonstrate how scalable carbon capture can support decarbonisation goals within airport environments and beyond.
Acumen’s Take
This initiative reflects the growing intersection of academic innovation and aviation sustainability. For airports, airlines, and lessors, integrating carbon capture technology could play a pivotal role in meeting emissions targets and enhancing environmental credentials. Dublin Airport’s leadership in hosting such trials reinforces Ireland’s position as a hub for aviation innovation and climate-conscious growth.
Two Stacks Irish Whiskey Takes Flight at Dublin Airport Terminal 2 with Inaugural Launch of ‘The Flight Series’ with ARI
Two Stacks Irish Whiskey has unveiled The Flight Series at Dublin Airport Terminal 2 in partnership with ARI, marking a unique travel retail exclusive. Inspired by migratory birds and the global journey of people and spirits, the debut release is a 7-Year-Old Single Malt matured in Ex-Barolo Wine casks and bottled at 48% ABV. Priced at €103 (€89 for non-EU travellers), it is available exclusively to passengers at T2.
Acumen’s Take
This launch exemplifies how premium retail activations can enhance the passenger experience and showcase Irish craftsmanship to a global audience. For airports and commercial stakeholders, such collaborations create value beyond duty-free—blending culture, commerce, and travel storytelling in a way that reinforces brand identity and elevates the terminal retail environment.
Vilnius’ Q3 Seats Almost Fully Recovered; Ryanair Largest Airline
Vilnius Airport is nearing full recovery in Q3 2025, with scheduled airlines planning 730,000 one-way seats—just shy of the Q3 2018 record of 735,000, according to Cirium data. Ryanair leads as the largest carrier at the Lithuanian capital, with Warsaw Chopin Airport emerging as the top destination market during the peak season.
Acumen’s Take
Vilnius’ strong seat recovery signals resilient regional demand and the effectiveness of low-cost carrier strategies in rebuilding capacity. For lessors and network planners, the growth trajectory offers renewed opportunities in Central and Eastern Europe, particularly for narrowbody placements and cross-border connectivity in high-yield leisure and VFR markets.
Tweet Picks
@airwaysmagazine Samaritan’s Purse has taken delivery of a former Qantas Boeing 767-300F (N367SP) to replace its DC-8-72CF. The 2006-built freighter, recently delivered to GSO, will end the DC-8’s long service ahead of its retirement in late 2025.
@AviationWeek #Airbus managed to accelerate #A220 deliveries significantly in June as the manufacturer handed over a total of 63 aircraft in the month.
@AviationWeek .@Allegiant has brokered a deal to sell its Sunseeker resort to Blackstone for $200 million, which should create some financial relief for the company after the property underperformed since opening in late 2023.
@AviationWeek The Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore has conditionally approved a proposed commercial cooperation between #SIA and #MalaysiaAirlines.
Video Picks
'An Extra Pair of Trousers' – Michael O'Leary & Claire Byrne
In this lively and candid interview with Claire Byrne, Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary offers his signature humour and sharp commentary on the state of the aviation industry, public policy, and travel habits—including his tongue-in-cheek advice about always packing “an extra pair of trousers.” The conversation balances insight with levity, offering a glimpse into the personality behind one of Europe’s most influential airline leaders.
Acumen’s Take
O’Leary’s media presence continues to play a strategic role in Ryanair’s brand visibility and public engagement. For aviation stakeholders, his commentary often signals strategic intent, competitive focus, or regulatory friction points, making such appearances worth monitoring for both their industry relevance and media impact.
Cork Routes for Winter 2025-26 – Eoghan Corry & PJ Cuddy
In this discussion, aviation commentator Eoghan Corry and Cork Airport’s PJ Cuddy delve into the upcoming winter 2025–26 schedule. The conversation highlights new and returning routes, growing interest from low-cost carriers, and Cork’s strategic push to strengthen its position as a key regional gateway, particularly in the off-peak season.
Acumen’s Take
The focus on expanding Cork’s winter connectivity underscores the importance of year-round route development in driving regional airport sustainability. For lessors, operators, and tourism stakeholders, the shift signals opportunity in right-sizing capacity and enhancing network resilience across secondary hubs with untapped seasonal potential.
Delta Soars on Upbeat Outlook as CEO Hails ‘Stable’ Environment
In this interview, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian shares an optimistic outlook for the carrier, citing a “stable” operating environment and sustained demand across both domestic and international markets. Bastian emphasises Delta’s strong financial position, continued investment in fleet and service upgrades, and confidence in the broader industry recovery.
Acumen’s Take
Delta’s positive tone reflects growing confidence among U.S. legacy carriers as demand normalises and macroeconomic pressures ease. For lessors, OEMs, and investors, the airline’s focus on disciplined growth and service innovation suggests a fertile environment for fleet renewal, premium product strategies, and long-haul network recalibration.
