19 Sep 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 19th 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
2-RBFA Boeing 737-4M0(F) c/n 29204 Royal Aero Ferried to Sunbang 26/08/25 ex EI-STU
Royal Aero has ferried a Boeing 737-4M0(F), registered 2-RBFA (MSN 29204), to Sunbang on 26 August 2025. The freighter, previously operating as EI-STU, continues to serve as a reliable workhorse within the converted 737 Classic fleet. Its repositioning underscores the ongoing demand for mid-sized freighters in regional and short-haul cargo operations, where flexibility and cost efficiency remain critical.
9XR-WU Boeing 737-8H6 c/n 40419 RwandAir Delivered to Kigali Int 27/08/25 ex 9M-MSG
RwandAir has taken delivery of a Boeing 737-8H6, registered 9XR-WU (MSN 40419), which arrived at Kigali International Airport on 27 August 2025. Formerly in service as 9M-MSG, the aircraft strengthens RwandAir’s narrowbody fleet, supporting regional and medium-haul connectivity across Africa and beyond. The addition reflects the airline’s continued fleet modernisation strategy to enhance efficiency, reliability, and passenger service standards.
Global Aviation News
Bizav Customer Demographics Shift amid New Expectations
At the 2025 JetNet Summit in Washington, D.C., business aviation executives highlighted a major shift in customer demographics and preferences. Traditional ownership models are giving way to more flexible arrangements such as shared access and on-demand services. At the same time, clients are placing greater emphasis on advanced security measures and integrated technologies. These evolving expectations are reshaping the business aviation sector, driving innovation in service offerings and fleet strategies to meet the needs of a new generation of high-net-worth travellers and corporate users.
Business Aircraft Activity Heats Up Globally in August
Global business aircraft activity surged in August 2025, with North America leading the way, recording its strongest year-over-year increase of the year at 4.4%, according to Argus International’s TraqPak report. Worldwide activity climbed 3.7%, reflecting steady demand across markets. Europe also continued its recovery momentum, notching a 1.9% rise in activity and marking its fourth consecutive month of growth. The figures highlight robust demand for business aviation as operators and customers adapt to evolving global travel needs.
European Aviation Handles Record Summer Traffic with 27% Fewer Delays
Europe’s air navigation service providers (ANSPs) achieved strong performance this summer, managing near-record traffic while cutting delays. Between 1 June and 31 August, daily flights averaged 35,122—up 3% from 2024 and 1% above 2019 levels. Despite the surge, average ATFM delays dropped 27% to 3.9 minutes per flight. The improvement was driven by better sector management, refined rostering, enhanced weather procedures, and stronger collaboration among aviation stakeholders, marking a significant operational success for Europe’s busy skies.
Eurowings to Serve L’Osteria Pasta Onboard Starting November 2025
From 1 November 2025, Eurowings passengers will be able to enjoy L’Osteria’s signature maccheroncini colorati during their flights. Adapted for in-flight dining, the dish blends tomato sauce with bell pepper, zucchini, eggplant, and Italian herbs, and will be sold in the Wings Bistro for €8.90, including a voucher for a free coffee at L’Osteria restaurants. The tie-up marks the first time L’Osteria pasta is served onboard an airline and reflects Eurowings’ ambition to make holidays start in the air. CEO Jens Bischof described the partnership as a “match made in heaven.”
Finnair August 2025 Traffic Results: Passenger Numbers Pass One Million, Load Factor Stable Amid Capacity Growth
Finnair carried 1.1 million passengers in August 2025, a 3.2% year-on-year increase, supported by strong growth on North Atlantic and Asian routes. European traffic also rose modestly, though Middle Eastern and domestic markets saw declines. Overall capacity (ASK) expanded 6.6%, boosted by additional U.S. and Asian frequencies, while traffic (RPK) climbed 7.0%. This pushed the passenger load factor up slightly to 78.9% (+0.3 pp), reflecting efficient absorption of the added capacity.
Five More Airbus A320neo Aircraft for Edelweiss by 2028
Edelweiss has announced plans to expand and renew its short-haul fleet with the addition of five Airbus A320neo aircraft by 2027–2028. Currently operating with Austrian Airlines, these aircraft will join the Edelweiss fleet as part of the Lufthansa Group’s asset strategy. Three of the A320neos will replace Edelweiss’ oldest A320s—HB-IHX, HB-IHY, and HB-IHZ—after 26 years of service, while two will support growth. Once delivered, Edelweiss will operate 18 short-haul aircraft, enhancing both efficiency and capacity.
Flybondi Appoints Hernán Morosuk as Chief Financial Officer
Flybondi, Argentina’s pioneering low-cost carrier, has named Hernán Morosuk as its new Chief Financial Officer following an internal development process. In his new role, Morosuk will oversee critical areas including Purchasing, Finance, Accounts Payable, Payment Methods, Revenue Accounting, Accounting, Taxes, Billing, and Management Control. His appointment reflects Flybondi’s focus on strengthening its financial leadership as it continues to expand operations in Argentina’s competitive aviation market.
flydubai and TAROM Sign Interline Deal to Expand Connectivity via Bucharest
flydubai and TAROM have signed a new interline agreement to expand connectivity through Bucharest, enabling passengers to book single tickets through check-in for smoother travel. The partnership opens access to destinations including Athens, Amsterdam, Brussels, Cluj-Napoca, Frankfurt, Madrid, and Paris. flydubai currently operates double-daily flights to Bucharest and is set to launch service to Iași on 19 September 2025, further strengthening its European footprint.
Grupo Iberia Ends Summer with Record-Breaking Connectivity
Grupo Iberia, comprising Iberia, Iberia Express, and Air Nostrum, closed out the summer 2025 season with record operational activity. Between 27 June and 31 August, the group operated 34,259 flights, offering more than 6 million seats across domestic and international networks. The milestone underscores Iberia’s strong role in maintaining Spain’s air connectivity during the peak holiday season and highlights its position as one of the country’s leading aviation players.
TAP Air Portugal Introduces Bluetooth Connectivity on Long-Haul Fleet
TAP Air Portugal has rolled out Bluetooth connectivity across its inflight entertainment systems in long-haul economy cabins. Passengers can now pair their own Bluetooth-enabled headphones with IFE screens on 19 Airbus A330-900neo and 13 Airbus A321-200LR aircraft. The enhancement is designed to improve passenger comfort and sound quality, reflecting TAP’s focus on elevating the onboard experience with modern, user-friendly technology.
US Drops Plans for EU-Style Passenger Compensation Rules
The US government has scrapped plans to introduce EU-261 equivalent rules requiring airlines to compensate passengers €190–€690 for domestic delays over three hours. The Department of Transportation has withdrawn the Biden-era proposal from December 2024, citing alignment with current policy priorities. Airlines for America welcomed the decision, describing the proposed rules as “unnecessary and burdensome,” while consumer protections remain limited to refunds, rebooking, and vouchers in cases of disruption.
Irish Aviation News
Aer Lingus, Pittsburgh Steelers Partner – But No Flights?
Aer Lingus has signed a four-year partnership with the Pittsburgh Steelers, becoming the NFL team’s Official Airline Partner ahead of the league’s first-ever regular season game in Ireland later this year. The deal leverages the Steelers’ strong Irish heritage and the NFL’s international expansion drive, painting the Black and Gold with a touch of Aer Lingus green. While the partnership boosts the airline’s brand visibility in the U.S. sports market, it notably does not include a commitment to launch direct Pittsburgh–Dublin flights leaving fans to wonder if such a service may eventually follow.
‘Carnage’ Amongst European Air Traffic Controllers – Ryanair Boss
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has warned of “carnage” among Europe’s air traffic controllers following the interception of Russian drones in Polish airspace. Calling the incident a “wake-up call,” O’Leary urged the Irish government to join a coordinated European response to the escalating threat. He argued that such attacks are straining already stretched ATC resources, disrupting operations, and putting aviation safety at risk, stressing the need for firm and immediate action at both national and EU levels.
Dublin Airport Growth in July Was Twice the European Average
Dublin Airport recorded passenger growth in July 2025 at nearly twice the European average, according to ACI EUROPE’s latest traffic report. While overall traffic across European airports rose 3.1% year-on-year, Dublin’s surge placed it among the continent’s fastest-growing hubs. International traffic led the gains at 3.7%, with domestic figures remaining flat at 0.7%. Within the EU+ area, growth was weaker at 2.8%, with Dublin’s performance standing out alongside strong results in Poland, Slovenia, and Cyprus.
IBGAA 2025 International Business Aviation Conference
The IBGAA 2025 International Business Aviation Conference is set to take place on 13 November at the prestigious K-Club, one of Ireland’s leading 5-star resorts. Located just 40 minutes from Dublin Airport and 15 minutes from Weston Airport—Ireland’s only dedicated General & Business Aviation facility, the venue offers an ideal setting for the global business aviation community. The event will bring together industry leaders, stakeholders, and experts to discuss opportunities, challenges, and the future of business aviation in Ireland and beyond.
Mary McKenna of Tour America Shortlisted for the John Hays Entrepreneur Award
Mary McKenna, CEO of Tour America, has been named a finalist for the prestigious John Hays Entrepreneur Award, which celebrates innovation and entrepreneurial spirit within the travel sector. Under her leadership, Tour America has grown into one of Ireland’s top holiday and cruise specialists. McKenna joins an impressive shortlist alongside Amar Latif OBE, Jessica Dennison, Martin Johnson, and Tony Evans, highlighting her significant contribution to Ireland’s travel and aviation-linked tourism industry.
Ryanair ‘to Raise Bonus’ for Staff Catching Oversized Carry-On Bags
Ryanair will increase incentives for airport staff tasked with identifying non-compliant carry-on bags. From this autumn, the bonus per oversized bag will rise from €1.50 to €2.50, with the current €80 monthly cap removed entirely from November. Group CEO Michael O’Leary confirmed the change, which is expected to sharpen enforcement of Ryanair’s strict cabin baggage policy and boost ancillary revenue, while further underlining the airline’s no-nonsense approach to passenger compliance.
Shannon Loses Out on Ryanair Plan for €400m Repair Plant
Ryanair has ruled Shannon out of the running for a proposed €400m aircraft-engine repair facility that could create up to 500 jobs. Group CEO Michael O’Leary confirmed that while Shannon was initially considered, it is no longer in contention. Derry now stands as the sole potential location on the island for the major investment, marking a setback for Shannon’s ambitions to expand its aviation services sector.
What’s New and What’s Cool at Limerick’s Foynes Flying Boat Museum
The Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum in County Limerick continues to captivate visitors with its celebration of Ireland’s rich aviation and maritime heritage. Located in the original 1930s terminal on the Shannon Estuary, the museum showcases Foynes’ vital role as a global hub for transatlantic flying boats in the 1930s and 1940s, as well as its claim to fame as the birthplace of Irish coffee. As the world’s largest museum dedicated to flying boats, it offers an immersive and educational experience that connects history, innovation, and culture.
1,500 Dublin Pilgrims Charter Three Planes to Travel to Lourdes
More than 1,500 pilgrims departed Dublin Airport on three chartered aircraft for the 2025 Dublin Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes, led by Archbishop Dermot Farrell. The group includes 109 sick pilgrims, supported by 14 doctors, 50 nurses, 600 helpers, and 30 priests, with many young volunteers among them. Bishop Donal Roche is also making his first pilgrimage to Lourdes as Auxiliary Bishop. The diocesan pilgrimage, a tradition since 1949, continues to serve as a powerful expression of faith and hope, uniting communities in service and prayer at Our Lady’s Shrine in France.
Tweet Picks
@RollsRoyce After 20 years of pioneering service in aviation innovation, we are retiring our Boeing 747- 200 Flying Test Bed, N787RR.
@simonasbartkus New departure and arrival areas already open in expanded Kaunas Airport terminal. Kaunas Airport is getting more than 1.5x extra space to be ready to serve 2M annual traffic.
@simonasbartkus Ryanair to abandon the Latvia-Germany market altogether, as current routes from Riga to Cologne and Memmingen are not scheduled beyond October. Ryanair cancelled the route Riga-Berlin back in the spring.
@SimonCalder Record trips abroad by UK holidaymakers in 2024, though our top three – France, Spain, Italy – all saw a slight decline in visits. The “balance of tourism” deficit – excess of spending on outbound trips over inbound visits – has surged to a record £46bn.
Video Picks
The Iconic MIG-21 Makes Final Sortie Before Retirement
This video captures the historic final sortie of the legendary MiG-21, an aircraft that has served air forces worldwide for over six decades. Once a symbol of speed and agility during the Cold War, the MiG-21 has been a trusted workhorse in numerous conflicts and training missions. The footage highlights the aircraft’s last moments in active service, honouring its legacy as one of the most widely produced and operated fighter jets in aviation history. It’s a fitting tribute to a jet that defined an era and leaves behind an enduring mark on military aviation.
The Unconscious Stowaway – Shortcut to Santry… via Heathrow
This fascinating feature revisits the extraordinary case of an unconscious stowaway who survived a perilous journey hidden aboard an aircraft, only to find his unexpected path leading through Heathrow and eventually to Santry. The video explores the risks, human stories, and aviation security challenges tied to stowaway incidents. It offers both a dramatic narrative and a sobering reminder of the extreme measures some individuals take, shedding light on a lesser-known but impactful side of global aviation.
Virgin Atlantic's John Price Chats to ITTN's Shane Cullen in the Latest Coffee Break
In this relaxed Coffee Break segment, Virgin Atlantic’s John Price sits down with ITTN’s Shane Cullen to share insights on the airline’s latest developments. The conversation touches on Virgin Atlantic’s customer-focused strategies, network updates, and how the carrier continues to differentiate itself in a highly competitive transatlantic market. With a balance of candid discussion and forward-looking perspective, the interview offers a glimpse into the airline’s vision for growth and service innovation.
Acumen’s Take
This edition of the Daily Aviation Brief reflects an industry that is balancing growth with transformation. Airlines, lessors, and service providers are pressing ahead with fleet modernisation, sustainability integration, and new partnerships while adapting to shifting customer expectations and regulatory landscapes. At the same time, airports and air traffic management continue to refine operations under rising demand pressures. Business aviation and regional markets alike are reshaping their models to align with evolving needs. Collectively, these developments underline the resilience of aviation and its ability to pivot in response to both opportunity and challenge.
