17 Feb 2026
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 17th 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-JAD CRJ900 (c/n 15261) – CityJet
CRJ900 aircraft EI-JAD (c/n 15261) was registered in Copenhagen on 12 February 2026 in SAS colours, previously operating as ES-ACB. The registration reflects continued fleet alignment within the regional sector, with aircraft operating under wet-lease and franchise structures to support network flexibility and capacity optimisation across Scandinavian operations.
YU-ATD Embraer 190 (c/n 19000698) – Air Serbia
Embraer 190 YU-ATD (c/n 19000698) was delivered to Belgrade on 31 January 2026, joining Air Serbia’s fleet following its previous registration as N698FT. The addition strengthens the carrier’s regional capacity, supporting short- and medium-haul operations with a right-sized narrowbody platform suited to balancing frequency and load factors across its European network.
Global Aviation News
Air Canada to Acquire Airbus A350-1000 Widebody Aircraft
Air Canada has confirmed an order for eight Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, with options for eight additional units, marking a significant step in the next phase of its fleet modernisation programme. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the second half of 2030, introducing a new generation of long-haul capability to support the airline’s international network growth. The A350-1000’s enhanced range, fuel efficiency and advanced cabin design are expected to strengthen Air Canada’s competitive positioning on intercontinental routes while delivering improved passenger comfort and lower operating costs.
Airbus Delivers Just 19 Aircraft in January 2026
Airbus recorded a notably slow start to 2026, delivering only 19 aircraft in January, marking one of its weakest monthly performances since the peak of the COVID-19 crisis. While January is traditionally a quieter delivery period compared to year-end surges, the figure falls below recent averages and highlights ongoing production and supply chain pressures. The subdued output underscores the continued challenges facing manufacturers in stabilising ramp-up plans, with delivery timing remaining a critical factor for airlines and lessors managing fleet planning and capital deployment.
Air France and SNCF Voyageurs Expand “Train + Air” Offer to Include OUIGO Services
Air France and SNCF Voyageurs have extended their long-standing “Train + Air” partnership to include OUIGO trains, broadening access to combined air-rail journeys under a single booking. Since 16 October 2025, customers can now integrate OUIGO services alongside TGV INOUI when travelling to or from Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport.
AirAsia X Advances Global Expansion Strategy with Bahrain as Strategic Hub
AirAsia X has taken a further step in its international growth strategy by positioning Bahrain as a strategic Middle East hub, strengthening connectivity between Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Australia. The development follows a Letter of Intent signed in November 2025 between Capital A Berhad and Bahrain’s Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, underscoring the airline’s ambition to expand its medium- and long-haul footprint beyond Southeast Asia. Leveraging Bahrain’s geographic location and aviation infrastructure, AirAsia X aims to build a more interconnected network that facilitates increased passenger flows, trade links and tourism across multiple regions.
American Airlines’ Distribution Costs Rise Amid Revenue Share Rebalancing
American Airlines reported a notable increase in distribution costs during 2025, with selling expenses rising approximately 10% year-on-year, even as the carrier worked to rebalance its revenue mix between direct and indirect channels. The rise outpaced trends at major US peers, with Delta recording flat to slightly lower selling expenses and United posting more moderate movements. The figures highlight the ongoing complexity of airline distribution strategy, as carriers navigate agency relationships, NDC adoption, and channel mix optimization while seeking to protect margins and regain control over customer data and pricing power.
Birmingham Airport Commits to Financial Incentive to Attract Direct US Connectivity
Birmingham Airport has announced a financial incentive programme aimed at restoring direct scheduled services to the United States, signalling a proactive approach to strengthening transatlantic connectivity from the West Midlands. With nearly half a million US-bound passengers from the region currently travelling via other UK airports each year, and almost 1.9 million passengers from the wider catchment flying to the US in 2024, the data underscores significant unmet demand. The initiative reflects growing competition among regional airports to secure long-haul services, leveraging market demand and targeted incentives to attract airlines back to strategically important routes.
Boeing Announces Largest-Ever Landing Gear Exchange Agreement at Singapore Airshow
Boeing has signed its largest landing gear exchange agreement to date at the Singapore Airshow, covering more than 75 aircraft across the 737 MAX and 787 fleets operated by the Singapore Airlines Group. The programme is designed to provide greater overhaul scheduling flexibility, extend component life cycles and reduce aircraft downtime through streamlined exchange processes. The agreement highlights the growing importance of integrated aftermarket solutions as airlines seek to enhance fleet reliability and maximise asset utilisation amid ongoing operational and supply chain pressures.
Delta vs United: Premium Boom, Economy Squeeze
Recent Q4 2025 earnings discussions highlight a widening strategic divergence between Delta and United, as both carriers navigate strong premium demand alongside mounting pressure in economy segments. Analysts point to fuel cost differentials, margin performance and evolving competitive dynamics as key drivers shaping results. Delta continues to diversify revenue streams through MRO, cargo and loyalty programmes while signalling long-term intent through widebody fleet commitments, whereas United’s commentary underscores a sharper focus on demand calibration and cost discipline. Together, the trends reflect a broader US market shift where premium revenue growth is increasingly central to profitability.
LATAM Expands AeroSHARK Retrofit for Entire B777-300ER Fleet
LATAM Airlines Group has expanded its adoption of AeroSHARK drag-reduction technology, confirming plans to retrofit its entire fleet of ten Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. Developed jointly by Lufthansa Technik and BASF Coatings, the surface film technology reduces aerodynamic drag, improving fuel efficiency and lowering emissions. With five aircraft already operating with AeroSHARK installed by the end of 2025 and the remaining modifications scheduled for completion by 2027, the move underscores LATAM’s commitment to incremental efficiency gains and sustainability-driven fleet optimisation across its long-haul operations.
Irish Aviation News
Aer Lingus NS26 Dublin – Washington Aircraft Changes
Aer Lingus is increasing capacity on its Dublin–Washington Dulles route for Northern Summer 2026, with one of the two daily services upgraded from the Airbus A321LR/XLR to the larger Airbus A330-300 between 25 May and 24 October 2026. The deployment of the widebody aircraft reflects sustained transatlantic demand and allows the carrier to offer higher seat capacity and enhanced cargo capability during the peak summer period. The adjustment underscores Aer Lingus’ continued focus on optimising aircraft deployment across its North American network to align capacity with seasonal traffic flows.
Executive Chair: Pat Byrne, Founder of CityJet
In this week’s Executive Chair on Newstalk’s Down to Business, Pat Byrne, founder of CityJet, joins Bobby Kerr to reflect on his career in aviation and the evolution of the Irish regional airline sector. Byrne discusses the strategic decisions behind building CityJet, navigating industry cycles and adapting to structural shifts in European aviation. The conversation offers valuable insight into the entrepreneurial and operational challenges of establishing and sustaining an airline in a highly competitive and capital-intensive environment.
Irish Visitation to Florida Surges Despite Challenges
Irish travel to Florida increased by 6% in 2025, according to Visit Florida, demonstrating resilience despite wider economic and political headwinds. Announced during Florida Huddle 2026 in Orlando, the figures highlight sustained demand across cruise and long-haul segments, with travel agents encouraged to remain optimistic about forward bookings. The growth supports Florida’s hospitality sector and reflects the continued strength of transatlantic leisure travel, reinforcing the importance of US connectivity for the Irish outbound market.
Orbis International Appoints John Slattery as Chair of the Board of Directors
Orbis International has appointed aerospace industry leader John Slattery as Chair of its Board of Directors, effective 1 January 2026. With more than 25 years of experience in the aviation sector, Slattery brings extensive leadership expertise alongside a long-standing commitment to Orbis’s mission of preventing blindness and expanding access to eye care globally. His appointment highlights the continued connection between aviation leadership and humanitarian initiatives, reinforcing the role industry experience can play in supporting global health and social impact programmes.
Ryanair: Steady As She Goes
A recent Airline Weekly feature examines Ryanair’s performance under the banner “Steady as she goes,” reflecting CEO Michael O’Leary’s characteristically understated assessment of the carrier’s position. Beyond the rhetoric, the analysis highlights the airline’s consistent profitability, disciplined cost control and resilient network strategy, reinforcing its status as Europe’s largest and one of its most dependable low-cost operators. The report underscores how Ryanair continues to balance fare competitiveness with operational efficiency, sustaining steady performance amid broader market volatility.
Share Your Story: Ireland West Airport Calls on Long-Time Commuters from Mayo and the West
Ireland West Airport is marking its 40th anniversary by inviting long-time commuters from Mayo and the wider West to share their personal travel stories. The initiative aims to highlight the airport’s role in connecting the region to business, employment and international opportunities over four decades of operation. By spotlighting regular travellers who rely on the airport for work and onward connections, the campaign underscores the airport’s enduring contribution to regional economic development and accessibility since its founding.
Shannon Airport to Host Explore Engineering Showcase for Fifth Year
Shannon Airport will once again transform its Departures Hall to host the Explore Engineering Showcase 2026 on 5 March, marking the fifth consecutive year of the event at the airport. The showcase will bring together around 2,000 senior-cycle students, educators, parents and industry professionals, providing direct engagement with more than 60 engineering companies across the Mid-West. Established in 2015, the initiative highlights career pathways in engineering, from apprenticeships to third-level programmes, reinforcing Shannon Airport’s role not only as a transport hub but also as a platform for regional skills development and future talent cultivation.
Simtech Aviation Welcomes New APS MCC Cadet Group in February 2026
Dublin-based Simtech Aviation has welcomed a new group of eight cadets into its Airline Pilot Standards Multi-Crew Cooperation (APS MCC) programme in February 2026, with students joining from Ireland, the UK and across Europe. Approved by the Irish Aviation Authority and EASA, Simtech continues to expand its training footprint through a long-term partnership with Aer Lingus, introducing new CAE full-flight simulators for the Airbus A320, A330 and A321XLR at its Dublin centre. With more than 5,500 pilots trained to date and graduates employed by over 70 airlines, the academy’s growing simulator portfolio and airline-aligned training programmes further reinforce Dublin’s position as a key European aviation training hub.
SMBC Aviation Capital Announces US$2 Billion Unsecured Global Syndicated Finance Facility
Dublin-based SMBC Aviation Capital has finalised a US$2 billion unsecured global syndicated banking facility, structured across dual tranches of five and seven years. Raised from seven relationship banks across Asia and Europe, the facility includes a US$1.5 billion five-year tranche and a US$500 million seven-year tranche, marking the first time SMBC has incorporated a seven-year tenor within an unsecured syndicated structure. The proceeds will support the company’s commitments under the Sumisho Air Lease transaction, reinforcing its funding flexibility and highlighting continued confidence from global financial institutions in Ireland’s aircraft leasing sector.
Tweet Picks
@DXBMediaOffice Dubai’s tourism industry achieves third successive record-breaking year with 19.59 million international visitors in 2025, up 5% YoY.
@RAeSTimR A321XLR momentum in Asia-Pacific. Airbus predicting it could open 850+ new routes in Asia-Pacific that are too thin for a widebody. #avgeek
@skift Flyadeal's CEO believes the airline has seen the worst of the aircraft delivery delays, but engine reliability and spare parts shortages remain a concern.
@skift In this excerpt from the Airline Weekly Lounge podcast, Gordon and Jay examine IATA's claim that the average net profit per passenger in 2025 and in 2026 is a "meager" $7.90.
Video Picks
Dublin Airport Passenger Cap to Be Scrapped – What It Means for Travel
This video explores the implications of plans to remove the passenger cap at Dublin Airport and what the change could mean for airlines, passengers and Ireland’s wider connectivity strategy. The discussion looks at how lifting the cap may influence route development, capacity growth and fare dynamics, while also addressing infrastructure readiness and regulatory considerations. The topic is central to Ireland’s aviation outlook, given Dublin Airport’s pivotal role in transatlantic and European traffic flows.
Dubai Duty Free Starts 2026 with a Record Month
This video highlights Dubai Duty Free’s record-breaking start to 2026, underscoring strong passenger spending and sustained recovery in global travel retail. The update reflects robust footfall at Dubai International Airport and continued growth across luxury, confectionery and electronics categories, reinforcing the airport’s position as one of the world’s leading retail hubs. The performance signals renewed confidence in international travel demand and the resilience of ancillary revenue streams within the broader aviation ecosystem.
DXB Hits 95.2 Million in Record Year
This video reviews Dubai International Airport’s record performance, handling 95.2 million passengers in a milestone year that underscores the continued strength of global hub traffic through the Gulf. The figures reflect sustained long-haul demand, strong transit flows and the airport’s central role in connecting Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. The achievement highlights how major international hubs are not only recovering but surpassing pre-pandemic benchmarks as network capacity and traveller confidence continue to build.
Acumen’s Take
The aviation landscape continues to show resilience, but growth is becoming more strategic than expansive. Fleet decisions, financing structures and network planning are increasingly shaped by efficiency, capital discipline and supply chain realities rather than pure demand acceleration. Premium positioning, multimodal integration and sustainability-led optimisation are defining competitive advantages. In this environment, value will be created by those who align asset strategy, funding agility and operational execution with long-term structural trends rather than short-term cycles.
