19 Jun 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 19th June 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: Explore recent developments in airline strategies, OEM activity, and policy shifts.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-2-june-2025-china-aviation-industry-newsletter
- India Aviation Newsletter: Catch up on airport infrastructure projects, fleet activity, and key regulatory updates.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-2-june-2025-india-aviation-newsletter
- Irish Aircraft Leasing Newsletter: Track lease transitions, asset activity, and strategic shifts in the global leasing hub.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-2-june-2025-irish-aircraft-leasing-newsletter
- Irish Commercial Aircraft Update: Detailed aircraft movement updates involving Irish lessors and operators.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-2-june-2025-irish-commercial-aircraft-update
- North American Aviation Newsletter: Insight into airline operations, fleet transactions, and regulatory news across North America.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-2-june-2025-north-american-aviation-newsletter
IrishAero News
FlyArystan Adds A320neo EI-KFH
Kazakhstan-based Low Cost Carrier FlyArystan, a subsidiary of the Air Astana Group, announced the delivery of its 27th Airbus A320 aircraft. The aircraft will begin operating flights this month.
The aircraft delivered 29 May, Toulouse to Almaty International, registered EI-KFH Airbus A320-271N (msn 6614), named "Atlas" after the bright star in the Pleiades cluster, symbolising reliability, strength, and the pursuit of great heights.
Acumen’s Take:
FlyArystan’s continued fleet expansion reinforces its strong growth trajectory in Central Asia. The addition of the A320neo enhances operational efficiency and aligns with the airline’s strategy to strengthen its domestic and regional network using fuel-efficient narrowbody aircraft.
Ryanair Bases 4th Boeing 737 in Shannon
Ryanair has announced the addition of a fourth based aircraft at its Shannon Airport base — a new Boeing 737-8200 "Gamechanger". The expansion comes with the introduction of three new routes to Lapland, Madeira, and Madrid, along with increased frequencies on six popular routes: Alicante, Edinburgh, Kraków, Lanzarote, Manchester, and Wrocław for the Winter 2025/26 season.This move is expected to deliver a 20% traffic boost, bringing total Ryanair passenger traffic at Shannon to 1.6 million per year and supporting over 1,500 local jobs.
Acumen’s Take:
Ryanair’s fleet expansion at Shannon reflects its long-term commitment to regional connectivity and economic growth in Ireland. The addition of the fuel-efficient 737-8200 and new winter routes enhances Shannon’s role as a key hub in Ryanair’s network strategy.
Turkish Airlines Expands Dublin–Istanbul Service
Turkish Airlines has increased its weekly flights between Dublin and Istanbul from 18 to 21, effective 9 June 2025, as part of its expanded UK and Ireland summer schedule. The additional frequencies will be operated using two-class 182-seat Airbus A321ceo and A321neo aircraft to accommodate growing passenger demand.
Acumen’s Take:
This capacity increase reaffirms Turkish Airlines’ strategic focus on strengthening Dublin as a key gateway to its global network. With growing year-round demand to Turkey and beyond, the move enhances connectivity for both leisure and business travellers, while positioning Istanbul as a vital international hub for Irish outbound traffic.
Aircraft Update
VP-CTK Boeing 737-86J Ferried to Istanbul
Boeing 737-86J (c/n 37765), registered as VP-CTK, was ferried to Istanbul on 28 May 2025 by ICBC Financial Leasing. The aircraft was previously operated as VT-SGY.
Acumen’s Take
The repositioning of VP-CTK highlights the continued reshuffling of narrowbody assets across leasing portfolios. With Istanbul serving as a key aviation hub, such movements support regional capacity adjustments and reflect a broader trend of strategic fleet realignment to match rising summer season demand.
2-ADAE Airbus A320-271N Ferried to Istanbul
Airbus A320-271N (c/n 11052), registered as 2-ADAE, was ferried to Istanbul on 9 May 2024 by DAE Capital. The aircraft was previously operated as VT-WDA.
Acumen’s Take
The ferry flight of 2-ADAE reflects continued asset repositioning by DAE Capital. As Istanbul maintains its position as a critical transition hub for leased aircraft, such movements are indicative of ongoing fleet optimisation and aircraft remarketing efforts within the narrowbody leasing segment.
Global Aviation News
Maldivian Expands Regional Capacity
Maldivian has taken delivery of its fifth ATR 42-600 aircraft at Velana International Airport, marking a key step in its fleet modernisation strategy. The aircraft will enhance the airline’s ability to offer more efficient and reliable inter-island services across the Maldives.
Acumen’s Take
The continued investment in turboprops like the ATR 42-600 reinforces Maldivian’s focus on regional connectivity and sustainable operations. Fleet renewal at this level ensures operational efficiency while supporting the growing demand for inter-island mobility in the Indian Ocean’s vital tourism corridor.
March 2025 U.S. Airline Traffic Down 1.4% Year-on-Year
The U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics reported a 1.4% decline in airline traffic for March 2025 compared to the same period last year. This data, published on a fixed schedule, reflects updated inputs and may be revised as needed.
Acumen’s Take
The modest dip in U.S. airline traffic suggests lingering volatility in demand, possibly influenced by seasonal trends or capacity adjustments. While not indicative of a major downturn, it underscores the importance of closely tracking monthly traffic shifts for strategic planning and network optimisation.
UNI Air Signs Order for 19 ATR 72-600s
UNI Air, a member of the EVA Air Group, has placed a firm order for 19 ATR 72-600 aircraft, along with three purchase rights, marking ATR’s largest single order since 2017. The new turboprops will support UNI Air’s Taiwanese domestic network, with deliveries slated from 2027 to 2032.
Acumen’s Take
This order reaffirms the continued strength of turboprops in regional markets, especially in geographies with short-haul, high-frequency routes. ATR’s growing backlog highlights both its market resilience and operator confidence in fuel-efficient, right-sized aircraft amidst rising demand for sustainable, cost-effective connectivity.
Vietnam Airlines Partners with ING for $1.5 Billion Strategic Financing
Vietnam Airlines has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with ING to arrange financing of up to USD 1.5 billion. The agreement, announced during the Vietnam–France Business Forum in Paris, aims to bolster the airline’s strategic projects, enhance competitiveness, and support international network expansion.
Acumen’s Take
The partnership reflects growing investor confidence in the Southeast Asian aviation market, and highlights Vietnam Airlines’ intent to scale operations globally. Large-scale financing of this nature signals a proactive push toward long-term fleet and network development, in line with post-pandemic recovery trends.
YTO Cargo Airlines Acquires 767-300 Freighter
YTO Cargo Airlines has added a 2003-vintage Boeing 767-300BDSF (MSN 33767) to its fleet. The PW4000-powered aircraft, formerly operated by Ethiopian Airlines, arrived in Guangzhou on 30 May and is expected to enter service within the next two to three months.
Acumen’s Take
This acquisition reinforces YTO’s commitment to expanding medium-widebody capacity in China’s growing express logistics sector. The 767-300BDSF remains a reliable and cost-efficient freighter choice for regional and intra-Asia operations.
Irish Aviation News
Aer Lingus Partners with Dr Norah Patten Ahead of Her Space Mission
Aer Lingus has entered a two-year partnership with Dr Norah Patten as she prepares to become the first Irish person in space. A trained aeronautical engineer and STEM advocate, Dr Patten is conducting advanced research with the NRC in Canada, collaborating with IIAS researchers ahead of her inaugural research spaceflight. Aer Lingus will support her transatlantic travel between Ireland and North America as part of this historic journey.
Acumen’s Take
This partnership showcases Aer Lingus’ commitment to championing innovation and Irish talent on the global stage. Dr Patten’s upcoming mission not only elevates Ireland’s presence in aerospace but also inspires a new generation of STEM leaders.
Mallaghan Lands Multi-Million-Pound Supply Deal with Emirates
Co Tyrone-based aviation truck manufacturer Mallaghan has secured a major £12 million deal to supply 53 aviation loading trucks to Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC), one of the world’s largest airline catering operations. As part of a three-company partnership, Mallaghan’s Edendork facility will deliver the high-loader trucks as part of a fleet renewal programme supporting Emirates Airline and other carriers at Dubai International Airport.
Acumen’s Take
This landmark deal reinforces Mallaghan’s stature as a global leader in ground support equipment manufacturing. Its partnership with EKFC reflects the strategic importance of high-performance, locally engineered solutions in supporting major international aviation hubs.
DAE Signs US$300 Million 3-Year Unsecured Term Loan
Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Ltd has entered into a US$300 million 3-year unsecured term loan agreement with the Bank of China’s Dubai, London, and Hong Kong branches. Announced on 2 June 2025, the facility will be used for general corporate purposes and to support DAE’s future financing requirements.
Acumen’s Take
This move strengthens DAE’s liquidity position and provides strategic financial flexibility as the company continues to scale its global leasing and aviation services operations. Such funding initiatives signal lender confidence in the aviation leasing sector’s long-term recovery.
Griffin Delivers Six Boeing 737 MAX 9s to United Airlines
Griffin Global Asset Management has entered into long-term lease agreements with United Airlines for six Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft. All six aircraft were delivered between April and May 2025, further strengthening the relationship between the lessor and the U.S. carrier.
Acumen’s Take
The placement of six 737 MAX 9 aircraft with United Airlines highlights continued demand for efficient narrowbodies in North America. This delivery also reflects Griffin’s strong leasing activity with blue-chip airline clients amid ongoing fleet modernisation efforts.
Northern Ireland’s Airports – Q1 2025 Passenger Growth Exceeds Pre-Pandemic Levels
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has released passenger traffic data for Q1 2025, covering Belfast International, Belfast City, and City of Derry airports. Collectively, the airports recorded a 3.4% increase in passenger numbers compared to the same period in 2024. Notably, Q1 2025 marks the first time all three airports have surpassed their Q1 2019 pre-pandemic traffic levels.
Acumen’s Take
The growth in Q1 2025 reflects strong regional recovery and renewed travel confidence across Northern Ireland. Exceeding 2019 levels is a significant milestone that underscores the resilience of the region’s aviation market and its importance in driving connectivity and economic vitality.
Ryanair Buys 30 New CFM LEAP-1B Engines
Ryanair has finalised a deal with CFM to purchase 30 new LEAP-1B spare engines, valued at $500 million. These highly fuel-efficient engines will support Ryanair’s existing fleet of 210 Boeing 737 Gamechanger aircraft and future Boeing 737 MAX-10 deliveries starting in 2027. With this acquisition, Ryanair’s pool of spare engines exceeds 120 units, bolstering operational resilience as the airline targets a fleet of 800 B737s and 300 million annual passengers by 2034.
Acumen’s Take
Ryanair’s investment in additional LEAP-1B engines highlights its long-term growth strategy and commitment to operational efficiency. Expanding its spare engine pool is a proactive move that ensures schedule reliability and supports the airline’s ambitious traffic and fleet growth targets.
‘Total Madness’ That Dublin Airport Is Held Back by Passenger Cap, Says Willie Walsh
Speaking at the IATA AGM in New Delhi, IATA Director General Willie Walsh sharply criticised the passenger cap imposed on Dublin Airport, calling it “total madness.” Walsh pointed out the contradiction of allowing the airport to invest in major infrastructure—like its second runway—while continuing to limit its growth through a cap on annual passenger numbers. He noted that the cap is “clearly” restricting Dublin Airport’s potential as a vital gateway for both tourism and trade.
Acumen’s Take
Willie Walsh’s comments echo growing industry frustration over constraints that could hinder Ireland’s global connectivity. As Dublin Airport nears capacity, lifting the cap is not only logical but essential to support long-term passenger growth and Ireland’s strategic aviation ambitions.
Tweet Picks
@AINonline Brazilian aerospace and defense company Embraer established an Indian subsidiary based at the AeroCity hub in New Delhi late last month.
@AINonline GE Aerospace is readying for the entry into service of its GE9X engine, which it describes as the “future of widebody” aircraft.
@AINonline Latin America and the Caribbean now account for about an eighth of the global business jet fleet, with Brazil having the second-largest fleet in the world.
@emirates We’re delighted to establish an interline partnership with Bahamasair to expand our reach to three points in the Caribbean nation.
Video Picks
Aer Dogs Episode 9 – Juan Carlos Zuazua, CEO, VivaAerobus
In this episode of Aer Dogs, VivaAerobus CEO Juan Carlos Zuazua discusses the airline’s growth journey, its ultra-low-cost carrier model, and the strategies behind its regional dominance in Latin America. He shares how the carrier continues to scale efficiently while keeping fares low and operations lean.
Acumen’s Take
Zuazua’s leadership underscores the importance of disciplined expansion and regional agility in the ULCC space. VivaAerobus stands as a strong example of how low-cost models, when well-executed, can deliver both profitability and connectivity in emerging markets.
US-Europe Air Travel Is Recovering, British Airways Owner Says
British Airways’ parent company shares an optimistic outlook for transatlantic travel, highlighting a steady recovery in US-Europe air traffic. The update points to strong booking trends, improved load factors, and a growing appetite for both business and leisure travel across the Atlantic corridor.
Acumen’s Take
Transatlantic routes remain a critical revenue driver for full-service carriers. The sustained recovery in US-Europe demand reinforces long-term investment in widebody capacity and premium services, with British Airways well-positioned to capitalize on this resurgence.
Shannon Airport Urges Government To "Accelerate The Development" Of New Aviation Policy
Shannon Airport’s CEO has publicly called on the Irish government to fast-track the formulation and release of a new national aviation policy. The appeal emphasises the urgency for a strategy that better supports regional airports, encourages balanced growth, and strengthens Ireland’s overall connectivity.
Acumen’s Take
Policy clarity is essential for the sustainable development of Ireland’s aviation ecosystem. Shannon’s call reflects a wider industry need for timely regulatory direction to enable long-term investment, enhance regional accessibility, and secure competitive positioning in the post-pandemic recovery.
