01 Dec 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 1st December 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:
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IrishAero News
CityJet Strengthens CRJ Fleet
CityJet has added another Mitsubishi CRJ-900LR to its fleet, with the delivery of EI-HSD (msn 15085) on 12 November 2025. The aircraft will fly for SAS Scandinavian Airlines under a wet-lease arrangement and be based at Copenhagen Airport (CPH). The latest addition reinforces CityJet’s position as a key ACMI partner for European carriers, supporting SAS with dependable regional capacity during peak operational periods.
Dublin Welcomes ASKY Airlines Boeing 737 MAX
Dublin has handled the arrival of a Boeing 737 MAX 8 destined for ASKY Airlines, delivered via Ethiopian Airlines Group. The aircraft, built in 2019 and previously intended for Ural Airlines as VP-BHR, was never accepted due to sanctions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Now registered ET-BBD (msn 66147), it arrived on the ETH9201 ferry routing from Boeing Field to Dublin before continuing to Addis Ababa between 18–20 November 2025. The jet landed in an all-white livery with Ural colours still visible on the rudder and sharklets and will undergo a full repaint before entering service with ASKY Airlines.
Newest flydubai 737 MAX Delivered Through Shannon
flydubai has added another brand-new Boeing 737 MAX 8 to its expanding fleet with the delivery of A6-FPI (msn 61036), marking the carrier’s 13th new MAX. The aircraft departed Boeing Field on 18 November as ferry flight FDB9741, arriving into Shannon the following morning for its technical stop. After an overnight stay, it continued onward on 20 November, landing in Dubai International later that afternoon. The delivery reflects flydubai’s steady fleet growth as the airline continues to scale capacity across its regional and medium-haul network.
Aircraft Update
HL8744 Delivered to Aero K Airlines
An Airbus A320-214, registered HL8744 (c/n 6051), has been delivered to Aero K Airlines following its arrival in Seoul on 24 November 2025. The aircraft, formerly operating as N846KW, now joins Aero K’s growing A320 family fleet. Its induction supports the carrier’s ongoing capacity build-up and strengthens its network with additional narrowbody utilisation across key regional routes.
OE-IKJ Registered to Rhodium Funding
An Airbus A321-251N, registered OE-IKJ (c/n 7945), has been added to the Rhodium Funding portfolio following its registration in Ostrava on 25 November 2025. The aircraft, previously operating as 9H-PED, transitions into its new ownership with the flexibility and demand profile typical of the A321neo family. Its placement highlights continued interest in efficient, mid-life narrowbodies across the leasing market.
Global Aviation News
Aerolíneas Argentinas Launches Self-Funded Fleet Expansion with 18 New Aircraft
Aerolíneas Argentinas has unveiled its first-ever self-financed investment plan, committing to add 18 new aircraft across its Airbus and Boeing fleets. The initiative marks a major shift for the carrier, signalling stronger financial footing and a push to modernise its operation without external funding. The programme focuses on upgrading seating capacity, enhancing onboard connectivity, and improving overall passenger experience, backed by an investment exceeding US$65 million. The expansion is designed to reinforce the airline’s competitiveness in both domestic and international markets while supporting long-term profitability.
Aircraft End-of-Life Specialist Releases Song Following Cancer Diagnosis
Derk-Jan van Heerden, a respected aircraft end-of-life professional, has released a deeply personal song titled Die Twice after being diagnosed with brain cancer. The track, created with close friends, uses aviation as a metaphor to explore mortality, legacy and the emotional weight of facing a terminal illness. Blending his lifelong passion for aviation with a reflective narrative, the song captures the idea of a “final flight” and is now available on major platforms including Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube under the artist name One Flight.
Air China Cargo Orders Six A350F Freighters
Air China Cargo has signed a purchase agreement for six Airbus A350F aircraft, becoming the first operator in mainland China to commit to the new-generation freighter. Announced in Beijing, the deal marks a major step in the airline’s fleet modernisation strategy, bringing in a more fuel-efficient, higher-capacity widebody designed for long-haul cargo growth. The order also strengthens Airbus’s footprint in the Chinese freighter market as demand for next-gen, lower-emission cargo aircraft continues to rise.
Air Côte d’Ivoire Orders Four Embraer E175s
Air Côte d’Ivoire has placed a firm order for four Embraer E175s, along with eight purchase rights, to support its next phase of regional growth. Announced at the Dubai Airshow, the deal forms part of the carrier’s fleet-modernisation strategy, bringing in 76-seat aircraft configured with a two-class cabin. The E175s will enhance connectivity across West Africa by offering greater efficiency, improved operating economics, and a more consistent passenger experience on short- and medium-haul routes.
Air Algérie Takes Delivery of Its First A330neo
Air Algérie has received its first Airbus A330-900, a major step in the carrier’s long-haul fleet renewal. Delivered from Toulouse, the new-generation widebody will support Air Algérie’s plans to expand its network from Algiers, including the launch of new transatlantic and Asian routes. The delivery also marks an important evolution in the airline’s partnership with Airbus as it transitions to more fuel-efficient, long-range aircraft.
Air Arabia Launches Sharjah–Gatwick Service
Air Arabia is set to make its London Gatwick debut with double-daily flights from Sharjah starting 29 March. The new route increases competition on UK–UAE corridors and expands the carrier’s footprint in a key long-haul market. The service will be operated by Airbus A321neoLR aircraft, supporting strong range and efficiency. CEO Adel Al Ali described the launch as an important milestone in the airline’s growth strategy.
Air Senegal Commits to Its First Boeing 737 MAX Fleet Order
Air Senegal has taken a major step in its growth strategy with a commitment to acquire nine Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, marking its largest-ever fleet purchase and first Boeing order since 2004. Announced at the Dubai Airshow, the deal will support both regional expansion and the airline’s plans to build a wider international network. The commitment signals a significant modernisation push as the carrier prepares for future capacity and efficiency needs.
Tui Expands City Break Portfolio with New Zadar Offering
Tui has broadened its city break line-up by adding Zadar, Croatia, through new partnerships with easyJet and Ryanair. The packages will be available from nine UK airports, including Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh, with stays ranging from three to 14 nights. The move gives travellers a wider choice of short and long holiday options, supported by flexible flight and accommodation combinations across Tui’s growing city break programme.
Irish Aviation News
ABL Aviation Completes 15-Aircraft A220 Mandate with Air France
ABL Aviation has delivered the fifteenth and final Airbus A220-300 to Air France, concluding a multi-year, 15-aircraft mandate. The handover of MSN 55393 marks a key milestone in the partnership, highlighting ABL Aviation’s ability to manage complex investment programmes and support major fleet renewal strategies. The completion of the mandate underscores the strong working relationship between the two companies, built on consistent execution, innovation, and long-term trust.
ACIA Aero Leasing Delivers Two ATR 72-600s to PNG Air
ACIA Aero Leasing has delivered two ATR 72-600s to PNG Air, strengthening the carrier’s regional fleet with modern 70-seat turboprops. The aircraft, handed over from Dublin, will support PNG Air’s domestic network by offering improved efficiency and passenger comfort on short-haul routes. The deal reinforces ACIA’s footprint in the Asia-Pacific regional aviation market and aligns with PNG Air’s ongoing fleet modernisation efforts.
Aer Lingus Sees Stable Fares Ahead Despite Rising Competition
Aer Lingus expects air fares to remain broadly flat next year, even as competition for Irish passengers intensifies. CEO Lynne Embleton shared the outlook following the airline’s third-quarter results, which reported a 22% rise in operating profit to €170 million. Embleton noted that while market pressures are increasing, the carrier anticipates a relatively steady pricing environment heading into 2026.
Irish Aircraft Register Update – October 2025
The October 2025 update to the Irish Aircraft Register reflects another month of steady fleet movement across commercial, corporate, and general aviation segments. Flying in Ireland reports a mix of new additions, deregistrations, and ownership changes, highlighting continued activity in aircraft transitions and leasing activity. The register update provides an overview of Ireland’s evolving fleet profile, with several aircraft changing operators or leaving the register as they move through global remarketing and delivery pipelines. The latest data underscores Ireland’s ongoing role as a key hub for aircraft ownership, leasing, and regulatory oversight.
LATAM Picks Brussels and Amsterdam After Dublin Plans Stall
LATAM Airlines has announced new nonstop routes from São Paulo to Amsterdam, Brussels and Cape Town for 2026, after its ambitions to launch service to Dublin were blocked by the airport’s passenger cap. The carrier has already begun flying to Amsterdam Schiphol, with three weekly services starting 29 March 2026. The shift underscores how Dublin's current capacity constraints are influencing airline network decisions and directing long-haul opportunities toward competing European hubs.
Lenders Consider Backing Pilot Training Fund
Financial institutions are exploring support for a proposed pilot-training loan fund aimed at easing crew shortages for Irish and European airlines. The idea follows findings from the Pathfinder for Irish Aviation report, which highlighted that a €40 million low-interest facility could boost Ireland’s pilot-training output from roughly 100 graduates a year to about 400. If implemented, the initiative would help airlines secure a stronger talent pipeline as demand for flight crews continues to rise.
Pilot.ie Expands Digital Library with New ASA eBook Collection
Pilot.ie has introduced ASA eBooks to its online store, giving Irish pilots and student aviators easier access to one of the industry’s most respected training publishers. The new digital collection brings a wide range of study materials, from exam prep to technical references, directly to Irish learners, supporting more flexible and modern training pathways. The move strengthens Pilot.ie’s role as a key resource hub for Ireland’s aviation community.
Ryanair Unveils 2025 Winter Schedule for Katowice
Ryanair has released its 2025 winter schedule for Katowice, introducing 15 routes, including new services to Budapest, Brussels, and Trapani. The airline will also increase frequencies to high-demand leisure destinations such as Alicante, Athens, and Catania. With three aircraft stationed at the airport this winter, Ryanair is reinforcing Katowice’s role as a key hub in its Polish network, supporting tourism growth, local employment, and wider regional connectivity.
Tweet Picks
@ericreports FedEx $FDX gave a rosy scenario about quick inspections, return-to-service of MD-11 freighters post-UPS crash, but it looks like jets out of action for lengthy period, per Boeing/Western Global Airlines.
@emirates Unveiling Emirates Signature Series - an exclusive collection of signed football jerseys from our iconic partners, @RealMadrid , @ACMilan and @Arsenal . Now available at our newly opened Emirates Official Store at Emirates Group Headquarters in Dubai.
@etihad Big news – we will begin flying our A380 to Narita, Tokyo for Summer 2026! Beginning on 16 June 2026, our renowned double decker featuring The Residence - the world’s only three-room suite in the sky - will deliver its legendary @SimonCalder Cardiff airport wins back scheduled transatlantic link for summer 2026, with WestJet flying out to Toronto.
Video Picks
Airport Experience Reimagined – Enhanced Passenger Flow and Future Innovation at Dubai Airports
This video takes a close look at how Dubai Airports is redesigning the passenger journey through smarter processes, new technology, and data-driven decision-making. It highlights improvements in crowd management, touchless processing, and real-time operations control that are already boosting flow and reducing bottlenecks. The segment also explores Dubai’s broader vision for the next generation of airport innovation, where AI, automation, and predictive planning shape a more seamless and resilient travel experience.
CarTrawler CEO: Why B2B and Customisation Win
This interview breaks down how CarTrawler is leaning into its B2B model and deep personalisation to stay ahead in the travel-tech space. The CEO explains why partnering with airlines and travel brands creates stronger, more scalable revenue streams than consumer-only models, and how customisation is becoming the real differentiator in mobility solutions. The conversation also touches on data, guest experience, and how tailored product design is shaping the next phase of ancillary growth for global travel partners.
Acumen’s Take
The start of December shows an industry pushing into 2026 with confidence: fleet renewals are accelerating, leasing activity remains strong, and airlines are reshaping networks to capture demand despite capacity and regulatory constraints. Across markets, we’re seeing a clear return to long-term planning, whether through self-funded fleet investments, expanded regional connectivity, or deeper digital and operational innovation. At the same time, talent pipelines, infrastructure pressures, and financing models continue to evolve, reminding stakeholders that growth still depends on solving structural challenges. Overall, the momentum is positive, but the focus now shifts to executing sustainably, efficiently, and with sharper capital discipline as the next cycle takes shape.
