17 Jul 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 17th 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-IEY Airbus A320-232 Ferried to Abu Dhabi for TFDAC Ireland
Airbus A320-232, bearing manufacturer serial number 5326 and registered as OE-IEY, was ferried to Abu Dhabi on 24 June 2025. The aircraft, formerly operating under registration B-6950, is managed by TFDAC Ireland and is expected to be repositioned for future lease or operational deployment in the Middle East region.
Acumen’s Take
The movement of OE-IEY highlights continued aircraft transitions into high-demand markets like the Middle East, where narrowbody capacity remains crucial. For lessors and asset managers, such ferry activity reflects ongoing portfolio realignments and the strategic use of hubs like Abu Dhabi for lease induction, storage, or remarketing.
SP-ESO Boeing 737-85C Delivered to Enter Air
Boeing 737-85C, manufacturer serial number 30723 and newly registered as SP-ESO, was delivered to Enter Air on 19 July 2025 in Warsaw. The aircraft, previously operating as B-5718, joins the Polish charter carrier’s fleet as part of its ongoing fleet optimisation ahead of peak travel demand.
Acumen’s Take
Enter Air’s acquisition of this mid-life 737 reflects the continued appeal of cost-effective narrowbodies in the European charter and leisure market. For lessors and operators, the transaction signals active demand for proven aircraft types that can deliver immediate capacity with low transition overheads, particularly in high-frequency, seasonal networks.
Global Aviation News
Embraer Delivers First E2 Jet to Mexicana
Mexicana, Mexico’s state-owned airline, has taken delivery of its first Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, marking a pivotal step in the carrier’s fleet modernisation. The aircraft departed Embraer’s São José dos Campos facility on 30 June 2025, symbolising both Mexicana’s renewed ambition and the growing footprint of the E2 family in Latin America.
Acumen’s Take
This delivery underscores the E2’s strategic role in reshaping regional aviation across emerging markets. For lessors and operators, the E195-E2 offers a compelling combination of fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and right-sized capacity, making it an increasingly attractive option for carriers like Mexicana looking to balance economics with network flexibility.
JetBlue Demotes Amsterdam Presence
JetBlue Airways has announced a strategic shift in its transatlantic network, scaling back its New York JFK–Amsterdam Schiphol service from year-round to seasonal operations. The route will now operate only during the summer months, reflecting the airline’s response to evolving demand dynamics and heightened competition in the U.S.–Europe corridor.
Acumen’s Take
JetBlue’s retreat from year-round service in Amsterdam highlights the challenges faced by newer entrants in saturated transatlantic markets. For lessors and network planners, the move signals the importance of route flexibility and cost control when deploying widebodies in competitive long-haul segments, particularly outside peak travel periods.
Jetstream Aviation Capital Delivers First ATR72-600 to Blue Islands Limited
Jetstream Aviation Capital has completed the delivery of an ATR 72-600, serial number 1167, to Blue Islands Limited on 13 May 2025. Based in Guernsey, Channel Islands, Blue Islands will deploy the aircraft for its scheduled and charter services across the Channel Islands, France, the Republic of Ireland, and the UK. This marks the first aircraft in a multi-unit commitment between the two companies.
Acumen’s Take
The delivery highlights growing demand for modern turboprops in regional European markets, where operational efficiency and short-runway performance are key. For lessors and regional operators, the ATR 72-600 remains a strong choice for environmentally conscious and cost-effective connectivity, especially across island and cross-border routes with limited infrastructure.
Malaysia Aviation Group Acquires 20 Additional A330neo Aircraft to Support Long-Term Fleet and Network Strategy
Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), parent company of Malaysia Airlines, has confirmed the acquisition of 20 additional Airbus A330neo aircraft through a direct order with Airbus. This strategic move supports MAG’s ongoing fleet renewal and positions Malaysia Airlines as one of the largest A330neo operators in the Asia-Pacific region, reinforcing its premium positioning and expanding its long-haul capabilities.
Acumen’s Take
The order reflects rising demand for next-generation widebodies in Asia-Pacific as airlines prioritise fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and fleet harmonisation. For lessors and asset managers, MAG’s commitment signals confidence in the A330neo’s long-term value and underscores Southeast Asia’s role as a key growth engine for global aviation in the post-pandemic era.
Milan-Bergamo Launches New BGY EXECUTIVE Terminal Facility
Milan Bergamo Airport has officially opened its new BGY EXECUTIVE terminal, a dedicated facility for general aviation (GA) and business travellers. Situated near Customs Gate 2, the terminal offers private road access, personalised services, and expedited airport procedures, providing a seamless and exclusive alternative to the main commercial terminal.
Acumen’s Take
The launch of BGY EXECUTIVE reflects the growing demand for premium general aviation infrastructure across Europe. For business aviation operators, lessors, and charter providers, such investments enhance turnaround efficiency and customer experience, reinforcing the strategic value of secondary airports in catering to high-end and time-sensitive travel segments.
Modern Aviation Adds Charlotte, KCLT
Modern Aviation has announced its latest expansion with the addition of a new Fixed Base Operation (FBO) at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (KCLT). This marks the company’s 19th location across the United States, further solidifying its position as a leading provider of premium ground services for business and general aviation.
Acumen’s Take
The addition of Charlotte to Modern Aviation’s network highlights the continued growth and consolidation within the U.S. FBO sector. For business aviation stakeholders and regional operators, expanded FBO coverage at major hubs like KCLT enhances service consistency, operational support, and network resilience across high-traffic corridors.
Irish Aviation News
Government Seeks Revised Business Case for Waterford Airport’s €12m Grant Application
The Irish Government has requested a revised business case for Waterford Airport’s €12 million grant application, casting further uncertainty over the long-delayed reopening of the airport to commercial flights. The project, which has already seen nearly two years of delays, remains under review as authorities assess its economic viability and regional impact.
Acumen’s Take
The stalled progress at Waterford Airport highlights the challenges regional airports face in securing funding amid tighter public spending scrutiny. For operators, lessors, and policy stakeholders, the case underscores the need for clear, data-backed strategies to justify infrastructure investment, especially in regions where connectivity gaps persist and economic uplift potential remains untapped.
How Does Dublin Airport Manage Peak Travel in the Summer?
In a recent podcast with Moncrieff, Dublin Airport spokesperson Graeme McQueen detailed how the airport is managing record-breaking summer passenger volumes. With Aer Lingus encouraging travellers to check in bags the night before, the airport has implemented a series of operational measures—including increased staffing, optimised queuing systems, and extended facility hours—to ensure smooth passenger flow during peak periods.
Acumen’s Take
Dublin Airport’s proactive approach to managing seasonal surges highlights the importance of scalable infrastructure and traveller education in maintaining efficiency. For airlines, lessors, and airport operators, such strategies are crucial in safeguarding on-time performance and optimising aircraft turnaround times, particularly when demand puts terminal capacity under pressure.
IAA Consultation on Actual Air Navigation Services Costs 2024
The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) has launched a public consultation on the actual costs of Air Navigation Services (ANS) for 2024. The document outlines cost breakdowns for en-route and terminal services and invites stakeholder feedback on cost recovery, efficiency targets, and compliance with EU performance regulations. The consultation plays a key role in ensuring transparency and accountability in airspace management funding.
Acumen’s Take
This consultation reflects growing emphasis on cost efficiency and regulatory oversight in air navigation services. For airlines, lessors, and service providers, understanding ANS cost structures is vital to forecasting operational expenses and advocating for a balance between service quality and financial sustainability, especially in a climate of rising traffic volumes and infrastructure demands.
KLM to Launch Third-Daily Service from Cork Airport to Amsterdam
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has announced the addition of a third daily flight between Cork Airport and Amsterdam Schiphol, set to begin this winter, excluding the low-demand period from 4 January to 20 February 2026. This expanded service will further enhance connectivity from the south of Ireland to KLM’s extensive global network of over 160 destinations via its Amsterdam hub.
Acumen’s Take
KLM’s expanded schedule at Cork Airport underscores the growing demand for regional international connectivity and the strategic role of feeder routes into major European hubs. For lessors and route planners, such frequency increases reflect the viability of deploying right-sized aircraft on high-utility regional sectors and support broader intercontinental travel demand through seamless hub access.
KPMG Event Spotlights Potential of Northern Ireland Aviation Sector
At a recent roundtable event in Belfast, KPMG highlighted the untapped potential of Northern Ireland’s aviation sector, calling for a unified, all-island strategy to attract investment, stimulate economic growth, and generate high-value employment. The discussion emphasised the importance of infrastructure development, skills training, and regulatory alignment to position Northern Ireland as a competitive player in global aviation.
Acumen’s Take
The push for a cohesive aviation strategy across Ireland presents a real opportunity for lessors, MRO providers, and OEMs seeking regional expansion. For policymakers and investors, Northern Ireland’s location, talent pool, and existing aerospace footprint offer a strong foundation—if supported by targeted investment and strategic policy cohesion.
Milestone Signs New Framework Agreement with Leonardo Helicopters
Milestone Aviation Group has entered into a landmark framework agreement with Leonardo Helicopters, covering its fleet of over 100 Leonardo-manufactured aircraft. The agreement introduces a first-of-its-kind Power-by-the-Hour (PBH) transition solution, streamlining maintenance support and enhancing value for Milestone’s global leasing customers.
Acumen’s Take
This partnership marks a significant step in optimising helicopter leasing economics, particularly for mission-critical and offshore operators. For lessors and OEMs, such agreements reflect a shift toward lifecycle-integrated services that reduce downtime, improve cost predictability, and strengthen customer retention across the rotorcraft segment.
Ryanair to Treble Presence at Modlin Airport
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has unveiled plans to triple the airline’s passenger traffic at Warsaw Modlin Airport to over 5 million annually by 2030. The ambitious expansion includes a $400 million investment and a fleet increase from four to eight aircraft based at the airport, reinforcing Modlin’s role as a key low-cost hub in Central Europe.
Acumen’s Take
Ryanair’s commitment to Modlin signals confidence in the long-term growth of secondary airport traffic across Europe. For lessors, infrastructure planners, and regional stakeholders, such strategic base expansions offer compelling opportunities for narrowbody placements, route development, and airport investment in underserved but high-potential markets.
Tweet Picks
@businessposthq Dublin Airport must have “high-speed” rail by 2040 or face significant EU fines.
@IrishTimes Michael O’Leary calls for Ursula von der Leyen’s resignation amidst French airport strikes.
@LkennyCathQtr A new report by leading aviation experts that positions Derry as a key strategic aerospace hub has been hailed by the managing director of @CoDerryAirport Steve Frazer as extremely positive for the North West.
@LuxuryTravelled Interesting as to why they went with LGW-BKK and now LGW-HKT.
Video Picks
AirNav Ireland Retirement – Ann Walsh
This heartfelt tribute video celebrates the retirement of Ann Walsh from AirNav Ireland, marking the end of a distinguished career in air traffic services. Colleagues share memories and commendations, reflecting on Walsh’s professionalism, leadership, and decades-long contribution to the safe and efficient management of Irish airspace.
Acumen’s Take
Ann Walsh’s retirement highlights the vital, often behind-the-scenes role of experienced professionals in the functioning of aviation infrastructure. For the sector, it underscores the importance of institutional knowledge, training continuity, and workforce development in sustaining operational excellence in air navigation services.
Delta Shares Jump 10% After Reinstating 2025 Profit Outlook
Delta Air Lines saw its shares surge by 10% after the carrier reinstated its 2025 profit guidance, signalling renewed confidence in financial performance and sustained travel demand. CEO Ed Bastian highlighted strong booking trends, disciplined capacity management, and steady corporate travel recovery as key drivers behind the improved outlook.
Acumen’s Take
Delta’s upbeat forecast signals a return to financial stability across major U.S. carriers, reinforcing investor confidence in airline profitability post-pandemic. For lessors and asset managers, it reflects a favourable environment for fleet deployment, lease negotiations, and long-term capital planning, particularly in markets where demand and yield fundamentals are holding strong.
Should Dublin Introduce a Hotel Tax – Eoghan Corry, Janet Horner, Pat Kenny
In this engaging discussion, travel journalist Eoghan Corry, Dublin City Councillor Janet Horner, and broadcaster Pat Kenny debate the proposal to introduce a hotel tax in Dublin. Proponents argue it could fund tourism infrastructure and city services, while critics warn it may deter visitors and hurt Ireland’s competitiveness in a price-sensitive global travel market.
Acumen’s Take
A hotel tax could have ripple effects across Ireland’s travel and aviation sectors. For airlines, particularly those operating inbound routes to Dublin, any policy that raises the total cost of travel risks dampening demand. Strategic alignment between tourism policy and air service development is essential to maintain growth and protect Ireland’s appeal as a destination.
