19 Aug 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 19th August 2025
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IrishAero News
Buzz Takes Delivery of 21st Boeing 737 MAX 8-200
Buzz, Ryanair Group’s Polish subsidiary, has expanded its fleet with the arrival of its 21st Boeing 737 MAX 8-200, registered SP-RZR (MSN 62390). The aircraft departed Boeing Field, Seattle, on 7 August as ferry flight RZS82R, landing in Dublin at 13:08 local time. Entering service the very next day, it operated Ryanair flight RYR7175/6 between Dublin and Zakynthos, Greece. This delivery marks the Group’s 183rd MAX overall, reinforcing its strategy of deploying fuel-efficient aircraft to support sustained growth and lower operating costs.
Royal Air Maroc Adds Pair of Ex-Irish Norwegian 737 MAX 8s
Royal Air Maroc has bolstered its short-haul operations with the addition of two Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft previously operated by Norwegian Air International, the now-defunct Irish arm of Norwegian Air Shuttle. Both aircraft are leased from Dubai-based lessor DAE Capital. The first, registered CN-RHH (MSN 42830), was delivered on 14 June 2025, ferrying from Prague to Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport. Originally delivered to Norwegian in June 2017 as EI-FYA and named Freddie Laker, the jet carries a legacy tied to the pioneering British low-cost carrier entrepreneur. This fleet expansion underscores Royal Air Maroc’s strategy to strengthen regional connectivity with more modern, efficient aircraft.
Flydubai Takes Delivery of Sixth Boeing 737 MAX 8 via Shannon
Flydubai has welcomed another addition to its growing fleet with the delivery of a Boeing 737 MAX 8, registered A6-FQI (MSN 61032). The aircraft departed Boeing Field in Seattle on 28 July as flight FDB9741, making a technical stop at Shannon Airport, Ireland, where it landed at 12:37 local time on 29 July. After overnight technical checks, the jet departed the following day, arriving at Dubai International Airport (DXB) at 17:41 local time on 30 July. This latest delivery reinforces Flydubai’s ongoing fleet modernisation and expansion strategy, ensuring greater operational efficiency and capacity across its network.
Sixth Former JetBlue Embraer 190 Arrives at Ireland West Airport
A sixth ex-JetBlue Airways Embraer 190, registered N265JB (MSN 19000049), landed at Ireland West Airport (Knock) on 1 August after a direct flight from Goose Bay, Canada (YYR). Touching down at 09:21 local time, the aircraft arrived in JetBlue’s basic livery but with no airline branding or titles. According to FAA registry records, the aircraft is currently registered to TVPX Aircraft Solutions Trustee Inc., continuing the trend of JetBlue’s Embraer 190s being repositioned for new leasing or ownership opportunities.
Aircraft Update
EI-FPV CRJ900 CityJet Ferried to Dayton for PSA Airlines
A Bombardier CRJ900, registered EI-FPV (MSN 1544), formerly operated by CityJet, was ferried to Dayton on 13 August 2025. The aircraft will join PSA Airlines under its new US registration, N642NN. This transfer reflects the continued movement of regional jets between European and North American operators, supporting capacity needs in the US domestic market where regional connectivity remains vital.
LV-PPM Boeing 737-700 Andes Líneas Aéreas Delivery
Andes Líneas Aéreas has taken delivery of a Boeing 737-7K2, registered LV-PPM (MSN 38126). The aircraft was delivered to Ezeiza on 15 June 2025, having previously operated under registration 2-CCXC. The addition marks a further step in the carrier’s fleet renewal and capacity-building efforts, strengthening its ability to serve Argentina’s domestic and regional markets.
N260AC Boeing 737-800 Freighter Delivered to 7 Air
7 Air has expanded its cargo fleet with the delivery of a Boeing 737-8AS(F), registered N260AC (MSN 33597). The aircraft, formerly operating as VT-SLH/EI-DLT, was delivered to Opa Locka on 7 June 2025. The addition reflects continued demand for converted freighters in the mid-size category, supporting 7 Air’s ability to meet growing e-commerce and regional cargo transport requirements.
Global Aviation News
Emirates Strengthens Commercial Teams Across Africa and Asia
Emirates has announced a series of strategic commercial appointments across West Asia, the Indian Ocean, and Africa, aimed at reinforcing its market presence and expanding its operational reach. The move not only supports the airline’s ambition to deepen its footprint in these key regions but also highlights its commitment to nurturing emerging UAE national talent by providing them with opportunities to build global expertise. These appointments reflect Emirates’ long-term growth strategy and focus on building resilient commercial leadership across diverse markets.
Europe’s Airports Urge EU Action on Security Equipment Certification
ACI EUROPE has issued a strong call for urgent EU leadership in accelerating the testing and certification of aviation security equipment. The warning comes as the EU finally lifted the long-standing 100ml limit on Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAGs) for passengers travelling from airports equipped with Smiths Detection’s advanced screening systems. The updated approval now allows up to 2 litres of LAGs in cabin bags, following renewed certification of the technology after previous performance concerns. While this marks a positive step forward, Europe’s airports stress that delays in harmonised testing and certification threaten both operational efficiency and passenger experience, highlighting the pressing need for decisive EU-level action.
First Cessna SkyCourier in Mongolia to Join Hunnu Air Fleet
Hunnu Air has become the first Mongolian operator to order the Cessna SkyCourier, marking the aircraft’s entry into the country. The charter airline will deploy the versatile twin-engine turboprop to boost domestic tourism and cargo operations across Mongolia’s challenging terrain. The deal covers two passenger SkyCourier variants and one Cessna Grand Caravan EX, with deliveries expected to begin in 2026. This fleet expansion underscores Hunnu Air’s strategy of leveraging modern regional aircraft to improve connectivity and operational flexibility in the Asia-Pacific market.
Jet Aviation Acquires ASTONSKY FBO Operations at Paris-LBG
Jet Aviation has completed the acquisition of ASTONSKY’s FBO, ground handling, and hangarage operations at Paris-Le Bourget Airport. The facility, situated just seven kilometres north of Paris, provides comprehensive services including passenger and crew handling, fueling, secure on-site parking, and office space. Its three hangars, covering approximately 3,500 square metres, can accommodate large business jets such as the Gulfstream G700. With this acquisition, Jet Aviation strengthens its European FBO network, enhancing its service offering at one of the world’s busiest business aviation hubs.
Kazakhstan Prepares to Launch a New Cargo Carrier
Kazakhstan is set to launch a new national cargo airline in early 2026, according to the Samruk-Kazyna wealth fund. CEO Nurlan Zhakupov confirmed to Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov that the carrier will begin operations with three leased aircraft, expanding to a planned fleet of 10. The government has pledged secure fuel supply arrangements to support profitability, while the Prime Minister has directed that preparations be expedited to ensure a timely launch.
LATAM Cargo Revenue Climbs 10% Thanks to Seasonal Peaks
LATAM Airlines Group reported Q2 2025 cargo revenue of $418.6 million, a 10.2% year-on-year increase. The uptick was driven largely by strong performance during seasonal demand surges such as Mother’s Day in Colombia and Ecuador, according to CFO Ricardo Bottas. LATAM’s cargo affiliates continue to play a central role in the airline’s diversified revenue strategy, leveraging key regional markets and peak periods to sustain growth momentum.
Lufthansa & Air France-KLM Report Strong Q2 Profits on International Demand
Lufthansa and Air France-KLM both posted robust second-quarter profits, driven by resilient international travel demand despite broader economic uncertainty and US tariff pressures. Lufthansa’s operating profit rose 27% year-on-year to €871 million, surpassing market forecasts, with ITA Airways delivering an unexpectedly strong contribution. Air France-KLM reported an operating profit of €736 million, up from €513 million a year earlier, matching analyst expectations. The results reinforce the broader trend of European carriers capitalising on sustained passenger appetite for long-haul travel.
TUI Summer Bookings Down 2% Amid Late Trend in ‘Highly Competitive’ Market
TUI Group has reported a 2% year-on-year decline in summer bookings for its Markets & Airlines (M+A) division, despite average price increases of 3%. The company cited a “highly competitive environment,” with customers booking later than usual, as well as external factors including prolonged hot weather in source markets and the ongoing Middle East conflict. While overall demand remains solid, the shift in consumer behaviour highlights the mounting pressures facing European tour operators and airlines during the peak summer season.
Irish Aviation News
Aer Lingus Adds Tromsø Service in NW25
Aer Lingus has announced plans to expand its Scandinavian network with the launch of a new Dublin–Tromsø route during the Northern Winter 2025/26 season. Starting 3 December 2025, the airline will operate twice-weekly Airbus A320 services to Norway’s Arctic gateway.
CSO Ireland Operational Aircraft Leasing Income Reached €19.5bn in 2024
The Central Statistics Office (CSO) has reported that Ireland’s operational aircraft leasing sector generated €19.5 billion in income during 2024. The figure highlights Ireland’s continued dominance as a global hub for aircraft leasing, supported by its favourable regulatory environment, financial expertise, and concentration of leading lessors.
Enda Corneille’s Diary: From Teaching Aviation Trainees in Riyadh to Checking Tomatoes in Cork
Former Emirates Country Manager for Ireland, Enda Corneille, has shared insights into his new chapter, balancing international aviation training and life at home. Now based in Riyadh, he is engaged in teaching the next generation of aviation trainees while also enjoying the slower pace of personal life back in Cork, where checking on his tomatoes is part of the routine. His reflections highlight the evolving careers of seasoned aviation professionals who continue to influence the industry abroad while maintaining strong ties to Ireland.
‘It’s not a luxury, it’s essential’: Why the Kerry–Dublin Flight is a Lifeline for Workers and Businesses
The Kerry–Dublin flight has cemented itself as more than just a domestic connection , it is a critical economic and social lifeline for the southwest. Supporting local tourism, enabling rural communities, and underpinning regional employment, the service has become essential for both business and leisure travellers. Since Ryanair assumed operation of the public service obligation route in 2021, following Stobart Air’s collapse, demand has flourished, making it Kerry Airport’s most popular service. With two daily flights, the route now plays a pivotal role in ensuring rural Ireland remains connected to the capital and beyond.
Keyamo Visits Ireland To Deepen Strategic Aviation Partnerships
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, visited Dublin as a special guest at the 8th Africa–Ireland Trade Horizon Conference. The event served as a platform to strengthen bilateral ties and foster cooperation between African nations and Ireland, with aviation positioned as a key pillar of future collaboration. Keyamo’s visit underscores the importance of aviation in facilitating trade, investment, and development, while also highlighting Ireland’s growing role as a strategic partner in Africa’s aviation sector.
Ryanair Criticizes Federal Government Over Air Traffic Tax
Ryanair has strongly criticised the German government for failing to address aviation tax relief in its 2026 federal budget. With traffic volumes still at only 87% of pre-crisis levels, Ryanair argues Germany is falling behind other European markets that have abolished or reduced similar taxes to stimulate growth. The airline notes that Germany’s air travel tax, raised again in May 2024, is among the highest in Europe, placing the country at a competitive disadvantage. According to CMO Dara Brady, the policy risks undermining tourism, jobs, and wider connectivity at a time when revitalisation of the sector is urgently needed.
Ryanair Develops Platform to Handle Travel Agency Bookings
Ryanair has launched a new “authorised distribution platform” enabling travel agents to book flights directly via its Travel Agent Direct (TAD) channel. The system is designed to ensure transparency for passengers and streamline access for offline agents, marking a significant step in Ryanair’s evolving distribution strategy. By restricting partnerships to “trusted and authorised” agencies, Europe’s largest low-cost carrier aims to maintain tighter control over bookings, reduce pricing disputes, and enhance customer confidence in the booking process.
SMBC Aviation Capital Delivers Second Airbus A321-271NX to Air New Zealand
SMBC Aviation Capital has successfully delivered its second Airbus A321-271NX aircraft to Air New Zealand, completing a two-aircraft transaction. The jet, powered by two IAE PW1133G-JM engines, represents the latest generation of fuel-efficient narrowbodies, supporting Air New Zealand’s fleet modernisation and sustainability goals. Conor Stafford, Head of Airline Marketing at SMBC Aviation Capital, emphasised that the delivery highlights both companies’ shared commitment to deploying advanced, environmentally efficient aircraft that enhance operational performance.
Tweet Picks
@eoghancorry Ireland to Spain visits for the first six months of 2025 were 1,408,701, up 7.8pc on last year, June figure of 357,402 was 30.6pc ahead of pre-pandemic.
@eoghancorry Strong July for Dublin and Cork airports, Dublin 3,752,254 and Cork 378,353 up 6.9pc on 2024 and 9.4pc on pre-pandemic, Cork up 15.5pc on 2024. and 27.4pc on pre-pandemic.
@flightradar24 NASA’s C-20A keeping busy above New York today taking readings for the APMAC CONUS program.
@SPD_travels It’s going to be interesting to see how this plays out. The UK CAA has been very stern with Ryanair over its use of the Irish AOC aircraft on UK-non EU routes, causing Ryanair to cut many routes, so not sure what’s suddenly changed to allow this route in this format. One to watch.
Video Picks
India & China To Resume Direct Flights After 5 Years
This video reports on the resumption of direct flights between India and China after a five-year suspension. The restoration of services marks a significant step in reconnecting two of Asia’s largest aviation markets, fostering business, tourism, and cultural exchange. The move is expected to boost passenger volumes and strengthen bilateral ties, offering airlines fresh opportunities to capture pent-up demand along this key regional corridor.
Kelly Ortberg's first year as Boeing CEO: State of the company's turnaround effort
This video analyses Kelly Ortberg’s first year at the helm of Boeing, spotlighting the company’s ongoing turnaround effort. It explores how Ortberg has navigated challenges including production setbacks, regulatory scrutiny, and rebuilding confidence among airline customers and regulators. The discussion highlights key steps in stabilising Boeing’s operations, its focus on quality and safety culture, and the broader implications for the aircraft manufacturer’s long-term competitiveness.
Madridejos: New JFK terminal to serve rising international travel demand
This video covers the development of a new terminal at New York’s JFK Airport, designed to accommodate the steady rise in international travel. The report underscores the scale of the project, which aims to improve passenger experience with expanded facilities, streamlined operations, and upgraded infrastructure. The new terminal is positioned as a critical response to growing transatlantic and global demand, reinforcing JFK’s status as a key international gateway.
Acumen’s Take
This edition of the Brief highlights the aviation sector’s delicate balance between growth ambitions and structural challenges. Airlines worldwide continue to modernise fleets, expand regional networks, and seek new revenue streams, underscoring confidence in long-term demand. At the same time, competitive pressures, regulatory hurdles, and shifting consumer behaviours reveal the complexity of sustaining profitability. Ireland’s central role in leasing and connectivity remains evident, reinforcing its global significance. Overall, the narrative points to a sector in transition—resilient, but needing agility to navigate headwinds while capturing opportunities for sustained expansion.
