17 Sep 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 17th September 2025
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IrishAero News
ASL Aviation Registers Airbus A330-300 Freighter in Dublin
ASL Aviation Holdings has registered an Airbus A330-302(P2F), MSN 1272, at Dublin Airport under Guernsey registration 2-JDVM. The aircraft, painted in full Saudia Cargo livery, was previously registered as N810CM in the U.S. It was ferried from Shannon to Dublin on 28 July after temporary storage and repainting, operated by Nomadic Aviation Group on behalf of Cargo Aircraft Management. The move reflects ASL’s continued expansion in widebody freighter operations.
Dublin Welcomes Ethiopian Airlines 737 MAX
Ethiopian Airlines has taken delivery of its 37th Boeing 737 MAX, a MAX 8 registered ET-BAM (MSN 64141), reinforcing its status as Africa’s largest carrier with a modern, fuel-efficient fleet. The aircraft arrived at Dublin Airport on 22 August 2025 from Boeing’s Everett facility, operating under callsign ETH9201. It continued the next day to Addis Ababa, highlighting Dublin’s role as a key stopover for international aircraft deliveries and ferry flights.
EI-HHW Airbus A220-300 Delivered to ITA Airways
ITA Airways has taken delivery of its 14th Irish-registered Airbus A220-300, with the aircraft EI-HHW (MSN 55358) flying directly from Montréal-Mirabel to Rome Fiumicino on 6 June 2025. The A220-300 delivers a 25% reduction in fuel burn and CO₂ emissions per passenger compared with earlier models, while being certified to operate on up to 50% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Airbus plans full 100% SAF capability across its fleet by 2030, reinforcing the A220’s role in sustainable fleet modernisation.
Aircraft Update
VP-CAB Boeing 737-8HX c/n 36848 Aviation Capital Group Ferried to Mojave 22/08/25 ex LV-KGN.
Aviation Capital Group has ferried a Boeing 737-8HX, registered VP-CAB (MSN 36848), to Mojave on 22 August 2025. The aircraft, which previously operated as LV-KGN, has been repositioned for storage, transition, or potential remarketing. This move highlights the lessor’s active fleet management strategy as it continues to optimise asset deployment in response to shifting market demand.
3B-NCU ATR72-212(600) c/n 1316 Air Mauritius Delivered to Luxor 20/08/25 ex OY-NZJ.
Air Mauritius has taken delivery of an ATR72-212(600), registered 3B-NCU (MSN 1316), which was ferried to Luxor on 20 August 2025. Formerly operating as OY-NZJ, the turboprop joins the airline’s regional fleet to support short-haul connectivity. The addition underscores Air Mauritius’ commitment to efficient regional operations, with the ATR72-600 well-suited for balancing capacity and fuel efficiency on island and nearby routes.
Global Aviation News
Iberia Renews Its Pre-Order Meal Service
Iberia has renewed its pre-order meal service as part of ongoing efforts to enhance the onboard dining experience. Following recent upgrades to long-haul menus, the refreshed service now extends across all short- and medium-haul flights, allowing passengers to pre-order fresh dishes for journeys of up to 4.5 hours. Available from 45 days up to 18 hours before departure, the service also includes special Celebration Packs on long-haul flights from Madrid, featuring a vanilla and lemon cake with cava. Meals are delivered directly onboard, offering added convenience and a more personalised in-flight experience.
Mexico backs down on airport slot restrictions after Trump threat
United Airlines has informed the US Department of Transportation about slot reinstatements at Mexico City International Airport.Mexican officials communicated with US carriers regarding the reinstatement of slots previously cut. Current hourly slots at Mexico City International Airport have been reduced from 61 to 44. Regulations regarding the aviation industry are tightening in response to concerns over compliance with the US-Mexico Air Transport Agreement.
PIT Among Leading Airports in Seat Growth, Says Report
Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) has been ranked among the top 10 U.S. airports for airline seat growth, according to a Sept. 6 report by Airlines for America. Capacity at PIT is projected to rise by 9.8% in Q4 2025, driven by expanding airline schedules as the airport prepares to unveil its new terminal this fall. The boost places Pittsburgh alongside fast-growing hubs such as Nashville, Richmond, and Raleigh-Durham, underscoring its growing importance in the U.S. aviation network and signalling strong momentum for the region’s connectivity and economic development.
Safety, Upgrades, Workforce Are Centre Stage at Global Aerospace Summit
The 2025 Global Aerospace Summit, hosted by the U.S. Chamber, opened with industry and government leaders addressing the most pressing challenges in aviation, space, and defence. Day one discussions focused on aviation safety, infrastructure upgrades, and workforce development, highlighting their critical role in shaping the sector’s resilience and future growth. With safety and modernisation taking centre stage, the summit set the tone for collaborative efforts aimed at advancing innovation, sustainability, and global competitiveness across the aerospace industries.
South Korea’s t’way Air to change name to Trinity Airways
South Korea’s low-cost carrier t’way Air has announced plans to rebrand as Trinity Airways in the first half of 2026. The new identity, derived from the Latin word Trinitas, symbolises the unification of diverse hospitality sectors and will be accompanied by a refreshed livery design. The move follows Daemyung Sono securing majority control of the airline with a 64.2% stake, positioning Trinity Airways for a stronger market presence as it enters its next growth phase.
Southwest Hasn’t Ruled Out Widebodies, CEO Says
Southwest Airlines is exploring the possibility of expanding into long-haul markets, with CEO Bob Jordan confirming the carrier “is at the very beginning” of evaluating a widebody strategy. While no decision has been made, Jordan noted that the discussions align with assessing what features customers will expect in the next five years. The consideration marks a potential shift for the traditionally all-737 operator, as it weighs how to balance its low-cost model with evolving market opportunities.
Thailand plans free domestic flights to woo overseas visitors
Thailand is preparing a bold tourism initiative that would provide 200,000 foreign visitors with free domestic flights over three months. The campaign, titled “Buy International, Free Thailand Domestic Flights”, is designed to channel tourists beyond Bangkok into secondary destinations. Backed by a proposed budget of 700 million baht (£16 million), the programme is expected to generate an estimated 8.8 billion baht (£200 million) in revenue. The plan, however, still requires cabinet approval before launch.
Trump administration drops Biden-era plan for airline cash compensation on flight delays
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has scrapped a Biden-era proposal that would have required airlines to pay passengers $200–$775 in cash for significant flight delays or cancellations caused by carriers. The rule, introduced in 2023, never took effect and faced strong opposition from airlines, which warned it would raise fares and disrupt operations.
United Expands Winter Schedule and Adds Flights to Cities Like Fort Lauderdale, Orlando and Las Vegas
United Airlines has unveiled a significant expansion of its winter 2025 schedule, adding service to 15 cities with a focus on popular leisure and regional destinations. Starting 6 January, the airline will introduce additional daily round-trips from Houston, Chicago, Newark, and Los Angeles to cities including Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, Miami, New Orleans, Atlanta, and Baltimore. New routes will also connect Newark to Columbia, South Carolina, and Chattanooga, Tennessee. International growth features new services from Houston to Guatemala City, San Salvador, and San Pedro Sula. United will also deploy larger aircraft on select routes, such as Chicago–LaGuardia, to enhance connectivity beyond its main hubs.
Irish Aviation News
Ryanair adds six new routes to Malta’s winter schedule
Ryanair has announced the addition of six new routes to Malta’s winter 2025/26 schedule, expanding the island’s connectivity to key European markets. The update was revealed by David O’Brien, CEO of Malta Air and Lauda Europe, during the inauguration of Ryanair’s new offices in Pietà. While specific destinations were not disclosed, O’Brien confirmed that the new routes will link Malta with airports in the UK, Sweden, and Luxembourg, strengthening Ryanair’s role as a leading carrier in the Maltese market and boosting travel and tourism flows during the winter season.
Sceptred skies: The ‘who’s who’ of the saints whose names feature in the Aer Lingus fleet
Aer Lingus continues its long-standing tradition of naming aircraft after Christian saints, a practice dating back to the arrival of its first Vickers Vikings in 1947. The airline’s newest Airbus A320 has been named after Saint Deirbhile from County Mayo, adding to the storied list of saints honoured across its fleet. The tradition gained early visibility in 1958 when Aer Lingus became the launch customer for the Fokker F27 Friendship, with each aircraft carrying the name of a saint beginning with the letter “F.” This cultural connection between aviation and heritage remains a hallmark of Aer Lingus’ identity, celebrating Ireland’s history while modernising its fleet.
Thompson Aero Seating launches new brand elevation campaign
Thompson Aero Seating (TAS), based in Portadown, has unveiled a new brand elevation campaign designed to strengthen its standing in the global premium aircraft seating market. The initiative highlights the company’s Northern Irish roots, celebrating the skill, expertise, and dedication of its workforce. By focusing on the people behind its products, TAS aims to showcase not only its innovation and craftsmanship but also the warmth and passion that underpin its reputation as a world-class supplier to leading airlines.
The Shannon Aviation Museum continues to grow
The Shannon Aviation Museum is continuing its steady expansion, further cementing its role as a hub for aviation heritage and education near Shannon Airport. The museum houses an impressive and growing collection of aircraft, aero engines, models, uniforms, and books, all curated with the support of a dedicated team. Plans are underway to complete new exhibition space by 2026, allowing more artefacts currently in storage to be displayed. With its strong educational and community focus, the museum is fast becoming a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts and the wider public alike.
Tourism sector estimates an 80-million-euro loss with Ryanair's departure from just one of Spain's regional airport
The tourism sector in Cádiz has been dealt a major blow following Ryanair’s decision to suspend operations at Jerez de la Frontera Airport for the winter season. Antonio Mariscal, president of Destino Jerez, warned the move could cost the local economy an estimated €80 million, calling it “another bucket of cold water” for the region. The Irish carrier’s withdrawal not only impacts air connectivity but also threatens the flow of visitors vital to businesses across Cádiz province, leaving the area in what Mariscal described as a “quite desperate situation.”
TrueNoord welcomes Leane Higgins in the new role of Technical Director Asia Pacific
TrueNoord has strengthened its Asia-Pacific operations with the appointment of Irish aviation professional Leane Higgins as Technical Director in its Singapore office. Bringing over 20 years of industry experience, Higgins has held senior roles in both technical and legal departments at GECAS and most recently served as Assistant Vice President, Technical Operations at NAC. A graduate of University College Dublin with an MSc in Project Management, she will play a key role in overseeing technical operations and supporting the lessor’s regional aircraft leasing activities across the Asia-Pacific market.
Vueling boosts Tenerife North operations after Ryanair’s exit, with 11% more seats and 25 new weekly flights.
Vueling is significantly expanding its presence at Tenerife North this winter following Ryanair’s withdrawal, marking its most ambitious schedule at the airport since 2008. The IAG-owned carrier will increase capacity by 11%, adding 25 new weekly flights. Having already carried more than 11.2 million passengers through Tenerife North to date and surpassing one million this year alone, Vueling is positioning itself as the airport’s leading operator. The airline also plans a 15% capacity increase at Santiago de Compostela, further strengthening links to the Canary Islands.
Visitor arrivals to Australia from Ireland reached 90,000 in twelve months to June
Visitor arrivals to Australia from Ireland have hit a new milestone, with 91,960 travellers recorded in the twelve months to June 2025. This marks an 8.5% increase compared to the same period last year. In June alone, 7,610 Irish visitors arrived, a surge of 52.8% over June 2024 and nearly 90% higher than pre-pandemic levels. Overall, Australia welcomed 624,510 short-term visitors in June, up 6.3% year-on-year, underscoring the strong recovery in international travel.
Tweet Picks
@davidshepardson CEO Scott Kirby on bankrupt Spirit Airlines: "It seems unlikely to me that Spirit can keep flying because their customers dislike the airline and don't want to fly. It's all about customers".
@FAA_Bryan People. Technology. Innovation. That’s how the @FAANews will deliver the world’s safest and most efficient airspace system. It was great to join industry leaders at today's
@USChamber Global Aerospace Summit, where I shared how the FAA is strengthening the foundation of the national airspace system.
@SeanM1997 London Heathrow Airport became the first European airport ever to surpass 8 million passengers in a single month (August 2025). This was due to larger aircraft and higher loads at Heathrow, with negligible change in movements.
@SpiritAirlines Scott is finally right about something - it is all about customers. Our Guests love low fares, especially our new Spirit First and Premium Economy options. Maybe that’s why United executives can’t stop yapping about us.
Video Picks
Govt's U-Turn: Allows IndiGo To Operate 2 Turkish Jets Till Feb 2026
This feature covers the Indian government’s decision to permit IndiGo to continue operating two wet-leased Turkish Airlines widebody aircraft until February 2026. The extension reflects the airline’s efforts to bridge capacity gaps on long-haul routes amid delivery delays and strong travel demand. The discussion also highlights the regulatory shift that enables Indian carriers to strengthen global connectivity by leveraging short-term foreign partnerships.
ITIC Sustainable Tourism – A View from the Education Sector
This segment explores how the education sector is shaping the future of sustainable tourism, as featured by the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation (ITIC). The discussion highlights the role of universities and training institutions in equipping future leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to embed sustainability into travel and tourism. It underlines the importance of aligning academic curricula with industry practices to drive innovation, environmental responsibility, and long-term growth.
Mark Sutch, Head International Development and CCO – Cargo, IndiGo
In this interview, Mark Sutch, IndiGo’s Head of International Development and Chief Commercial Officer for Cargo, shares insights into the airline’s expanding cargo strategy. He discusses IndiGo’s evolving role in connecting global markets, the opportunities presented by India’s growing logistics sector, and how the carrier is positioning itself to meet rising demand. Sutch also outlines the importance of partnerships and innovation in building a sustainable and competitive cargo business.
Acumen’s Take
This edition of the Daily Aviation Brief reflects the continued resilience and adaptability of global aviation. From strategic fleet moves and rebranding efforts to major infrastructure upgrades and evolving passenger services, the sector is responding dynamically to shifting market demands and regulatory landscapes. Themes of sustainability, digitalisation, and capacity optimisation feature strongly, underscoring how airlines, lessors, and airports alike are rebalancing for long-term competitiveness. Against this backdrop, Ireland’s aviation ecosystem remains closely aligned with global developments, reinforcing its role as a key hub for leasing, connectivity, and innovation.
