20 Feb 2026
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 20th February 2026
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
Aer Lingus to Expand A320neo Fleet
Aer Lingus is set to receive a tenth Airbus A320neo after parent company International Airlines Group exercised a purchase option with Airbus, reinforcing the carrier’s narrowbody fleet renewal strategy. The aircraft appeared in Airbus’ February market update under Orders, Deliveries and In Operation – Europe, reflecting continued momentum in IAG’s transition away from older A320ceo models. The move forms part of a broader modernisation programme aimed at improving fuel efficiency, lowering operating costs, and reducing carbon intensity, as Aer Lingus strengthens capacity across its short- and medium-haul network.
Buzz Adds Seven Boeing 737NGs
Ryanair Group has transferred seven 189-seat Boeing 737-800 aircraft from Ryanair DAC to its Warsaw-based subsidiary Buzz, further optimising capacity across its multi-AOC structure. The move strengthens Buzz’s presence in Central and Eastern Europe while maintaining fleet commonality within the Group. Buzz now operates 84 Boeing 737 aircraft, including one 737-700, 21 737-8200s, and 62 737-800s, reinforcing its role in delivering operational flexibility and scalable growth across Ryanair’s network.
Widerøe Grows Dublin–Bergen Route for S26
Widerøe will increase frequencies on its Dublin–Bergen service for Summer 2026, operating up to six weekly departures at peak using its 110-seat Embraer E190-E2 aircraft. Since launching the route in April 2023 with two weekly flights, the Norwegian carrier has progressively expanded capacity in response to rising demand. The additional summer frequencies reflect sustained interest in Bergen and Norway’s fjord region, with the airline positioning the route to capture both leisure and inbound tourism flows during the busy mid-season period.
Aircraft Update
SU-BWB Airbus A320-214 (c/n 6516) – Air Cairo
Airbus A320-214 SU-BWB (c/n 6516) was delivered to Air Cairo in Cairo on 3 February 2026, previously registered as 9K-AKJ. The addition supports the Egyptian carrier’s ongoing narrowbody fleet development, strengthening capacity across its regional and leisure-focused network while maintaining operational commonality within the A320 family platform.
9H-BRD Embraer 190F (c/n 1900360) – Bridges Air Cargo
Embraer 190F 9H-BRD (c/n 1900360) was ferried to Bratislava on 9 February 2026 for Bridges Air Cargo. The freighter supports the continued deployment of converted regional jet platforms within the European cargo market, reflecting sustained demand for flexible narrowbody freight capacity across short- and medium-haul routes.
Global Aviation News
American Airlines Sets Sights on Growth After Record 2025 Sales
American Airlines Group has reported record revenues for 2025, with fourth-quarter revenue reaching US$14.0 billion and full-year revenue climbing to US$54.6 billion. Despite an estimated US$325 million revenue impact from the US government shutdown in the final quarter, the carrier posted GAAP net income of US$99 million for the quarter and US$111 million for the year. The results reflect strengthening demand and improved financial stability, positioning American to pursue measured growth while continuing to reinforce balance sheet resilience and operational performance.
Boeing Targets April for First Production 777X Flight
Boeing is reportedly preparing for the first flight of a production-standard 777X as early as April 2026, marking a significant step for a programme that is approximately six years behind schedule and has incurred more than US$15 billion in development charges. The aircraft, currently undergoing fuel testing at Paine Field in Everett, is intended for launch customer Lufthansa. The milestone is critical for certification, as regulators require testing on a fully delivery-configured production aircraft, bringing the long-delayed widebody closer to entry into service.
Charleroi Airport Earns UN-Recognised ‘SDG’s Pioneer’ Certification for ESG Leadership
Brussels South Charleroi Airport has obtained the international ‘SDG’s Pioneer’ certification, awarded by CCI Wallonia and recognised by UNITAR, confirming the integration of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals into its long-term strategy. Granted after at least three years of implementation, the certification validates the airport’s progress across environmental, social, and governance (ESG) pillars.
China Cargo 777F Fleet to Surpass 20 Aircraft This Year
China Cargo Airlines has taken delivery of a new Boeing 777F, marking the first of several expected additions in 2026 that will expand its dedicated freighter fleet beyond 20 aircraft. The latest aircraft (c/n 70509) arrived in Shanghai on 2 February after departing Boeing’s Everett facility, where it was painted in China Cargo livery in late 2025. The expansion strengthens the carrier’s long-haul cargo capacity, positioning it to capture sustained demand across Asia–Pacific and intercontinental freight corridors as global air cargo volumes stabilize and e-commerce flows remain structurally strong.
Dr. Peters Group Achieves Success With Three Airbus A380 Funds
Dr. Peters Group has secured five-year lease extensions with Emirates for Airbus A380 aircraft held in its Flight Invest 50 and 51 funds, while also progressing component sales from the earlier Flight Invest 49 vehicle. The coordinated strategy of lease management and asset part-out is expected to deliver total investor returns of between 125% and 150%, a notable outcome given the volatility surrounding the A380 secondary market. The development highlights how disciplined asset management and structured fund oversight can extract sustained value from mature widebody platforms despite shifting long-haul demand dynamics.
EES vs ETIAS: Main differences to know for travellers
The European Union has clarified the distinction between its new Entry/Exit System (EES), which became operational on 12 October 2025, and the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), scheduled for launch in late 2026. While both initiatives are designed to strengthen border security, improve short-stay tracking, and streamline passenger processing, they operate differently: EES digitally records the entry and exit of non-EU travellers at the border, whereas ETIAS will require visa-exempt travellers to obtain pre-travel authorisation before departure. Together, the systems signal a structural shift towards more data-driven border management across Europe, with implications for airlines, airports, and passenger processing workflows.
EGYPTAIR takes delivery of its first of 16 Airbus A350-900 aircraft
EGYPTAIR has taken delivery of its first Airbus A350-900, marking the start of a 16-aircraft order and positioning the carrier as the launch operator for the type in North Africa. The A350 will play a central role in modernising the airline’s long-haul fleet and enabling new non-stop services from Cairo to markets such as the US West Coast and North Asia. With improved fuel efficiency, extended range capability, and lower emissions, the aircraft strengthens EGYPTAIR’s competitive positioning as it expands its intercontinental network and transitions towards a more modern widebody fleet mix.
Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC) commissions large-scale biodigester
Emirates Flight Catering has commissioned a large-scale Power Knot LFC-3000 biodigester at its Dubai Central Commissary Unit, enabling on-site processing of organic waste and reducing reliance on landfill disposal. The system uses aerobic digestion to break down food waste into grey water suitable for non-potable reuse, with the potential to cut annual CO₂ emissions by approximately 2,000 tonnes. The initiative reflects a broader shift within aviation support services towards operational sustainability, embedding emissions reduction and circular waste management directly into ground-side infrastructure.
IAG asks Portuguese government for full ownership of TAP
International Airlines Group (IAG) has indicated it is seeking full or majority ownership of TAP Air Portugal, moving beyond the Portuguese government’s initial plan to sell a 49% stake. As Europe’s three major airline groups – Lufthansa, IAG and Air France-KLM – compete for a position in the carrier, IAG’s more ambitious proposal signals a strategic push to deepen its presence in the Iberian and South Atlantic markets. The outcome will shape consolidation dynamics in European aviation, with TAP’s Lisbon hub and strong Brazil connectivity representing valuable long-haul network assets.
Wizz Air Marks a Year of Growth and Improved Performance in 2025
Wizz Air closed 2025 with fleet expansion, network growth, and record passenger volumes, reinforcing its position among Europe’s leading low-cost carriers. The airline added new aircraft, launched hundreds of routes, and reported improved punctuality and operational reliability across its network. The performance underscores the continued resilience of the ultra-low-cost model in stimulating demand, while disciplined capacity deployment and operational efficiency remain central to sustaining margins in a competitive European market.
Irish Aviation News
AerCap Grows its Portfolio, but Without New Direct Orders
Dublin-based AerCap expanded its order portfolio by 103 aircraft last year, yet notably refrained from placing any new direct orders with Airbus or Boeing. With an owned and managed fleet of 1,557 commercial aircraft, the world’s largest lessor appears focused on secondary market transactions and disciplined capital allocation rather than fresh OEM commitments. The approach signals a measured strategy amid supply chain constraints and delivery backlogs, reinforcing AerCap’s emphasis on portfolio optimisation over headline order activity.
Aer Lingus opens applications for 2026 aircraft engineer apprenticeship
Aer Lingus has opened applications for its 2026 Aircraft Engineer Apprenticeship Programme, with submissions accepted until 1 March. The four-year scheme, delivered in partnership with SOLAS, Technological University Dublin, and South East Technological University, blends structured academic study with hands-on operational experience leading towards an EASA licence qualification. Apprentices will begin in Dublin, complete nine months in Shannon, and return to Dublin to work under supervision alongside experienced engineers, supporting Ireland’s continued investment in aviation technical skills and long-term maintenance capability.
IAA Consultation on the establishment of UGZ in Cork CTR
The Irish Aviation Authority has launched a targeted consultation on the proposed establishment of a permanent Unmanned Aircraft System Geographical Zone (UGZ) within the Cork Control Zone to support Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations. While current rules already permit Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) activity under defined conditions, the proposed measure would formalise additional requirements for BVLOS flights pending full U-space implementation under EU regulation. The move reflects Ireland’s gradual integration of advanced drone operations into controlled airspace, balancing innovation with air traffic safety oversight in urban environments.
ICBA Welcomes Historic Decision to Lift Dublin Airport Passenger Cap
The Ireland Canada Business Association has welcomed Cabinet approval to lift the 32 million passenger cap at Dublin Airport, describing the move as critical to protecting Ireland’s role as a European gateway for Canadian investment. Representing 100 member companies engaged in bilateral trade, the ICBA had warned that capacity constraints risked undermining transatlantic connectivity and diverting foreign direct investment to better-connected European hubs. The decision strengthens Ireland’s competitive positioning in North Atlantic aviation markets and supports long-term route stability between Ireland and Canada.
Irish Arrivals to Greece Rise 37.4% as Demand Accelerates
Inbound travel from Ireland to Greece increased by 37.4% in 2025, with 184,996 Irish visitors recorded, according to data from the Bank of Greece and the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority. The surge highlights strengthening air connectivity and sustained leisure demand between the two markets, positioning Ireland as one of the fastest-growing European source markets for Greek tourism. The growth trend reinforces the importance of seasonal capacity planning and route optimisation as airlines continue to capture robust outbound Irish demand to Mediterranean destinations.
Irish hotels brace for mixed 2026
Ireland’s hotel sector enters 2026 with cautious confidence following a year of firm room rates and shifting visitor patterns, increasingly shaped by North American demand. Analysis from the Bank of Ireland indicates revenue per available room rose by 3% in 2025, though performance varied significantly by region. While inbound tourism continues to support pricing power, weaker domestic demand and rising wage costs present margin pressures, underlining the interconnected relationship between aviation connectivity, visitor flows, and Ireland’s broader hospitality ecosystem.
Michael O’Leary offers hope of eventual return to Ukraine but only on Ryanair’s terms
Michael O’Leary has indicated that Ryanair would consider returning to Ukraine when conditions allow, but only under commercially viable and operationally secure terms. Speaking during the airline’s latest earnings call, O’Leary combined strong financial performance updates with pointed commentary on airport costs, market opportunities, and post-conflict expansion strategy. While signalling long-term interest in the Ukrainian market, he emphasised that any re-entry would depend on cost discipline, infrastructure readiness, and regulatory clarity, consistent with Ryanair’s strict approach to capital allocation and network deployment.
MRO squeeze opens door for Ireland as global aviation demand surges
Rising global aircraft demand and production delays are tightening capacity across the maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) sector, creating a strategic opportunity for Ireland. With the country managing over 60% of the world’s leased aircraft and hosting an MRO industry valued at approximately €370 million employing 3,200 people, Ireland is well positioned to capture incremental technical work as fleet utilisation intensifies. As airlines extend leases and defer new deliveries, demand for skilled engineering support is expected to remain elevated, reinforcing Ireland’s dual role as both a global leasing hub and a growing technical services centre.
Tree Communications lands TAP Air Portugal Ireland UK PR Account
Manchester-based agency Tree Communications has secured the UK and Ireland PR account for TAP Air Portugal, strengthening the airline’s communications presence across both markets. The boutique firm will lead media strategy and execution, supporting TAP’s positioning as a key transatlantic connector through its Lisbon hub. The appointment signals continued focus on brand visibility and market share growth in Ireland and the UK, where competitive long-haul capacity and consumer engagement remain central to route performance and network expansion.
Tweet Picks
@AirlineHub1 Delta re-enters California's premium market, relaunching SNA-JFK with six weekly 757-200 flights and 16 Delta One lie-flat seats. Service starts May 7, 2026.
@AviationWeek Despite dramatic long-term fleet growth projections, @Boeing data shows that Southeast Asia is still behind 2019 levels in terms of narrowbody capacity.
@ByERussell Alaska to Europe. Delta’s “Route Race.” Air France’s “Eiffel Tower to Eiffel Tower connection.” Southwest to The Last Frontier. 9 new routes travelers can look forward to this year.
@business SAS is in talks with Boeing and Airbus about making a large purchase of widebody jets as the Scandinavian carrier bets on increasing demand for long-haul travel from its hub in Copenhagen, the airline’s chief executive officer said.
Video Picks
Inside Airline Transformation: Revenue Management, AI, and the Shift to Offer & Order
This video examines how airlines are modernising their commercial models through advanced revenue management, artificial intelligence, and the transition to Offer & Order frameworks. It highlights the move away from legacy booking systems towards dynamic, data-driven retailing strategies that enable personalised pricing, improved forecasting, and stronger margin control in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
Step Inside the 777X Cabin
This video offers a detailed look inside the Boeing 777X cabin, showcasing the aircraft’s redesigned interior architecture, larger windows, enhanced cabin pressurisation, and improved passenger comfort features. As airlines prepare for the next phase of long-haul fleet renewal, the 777X represents a blend of efficiency and premium cabin innovation aimed at redefining widebody travel experience and supporting network expansion on high-capacity, long-range routes.
What Paul Griffiths teaches us about the future of movement
In this thought-provoking discussion, Paul Griffiths reflects on how airports and airlines must evolve to meet changing passenger expectations, urban growth, and sustainability pressures. Drawing on his leadership experience, the conversation explores infrastructure scalability, digital transformation, and the integration of aviation within wider mobility ecosystems. The video offers insight into how strategic long-term planning and operational discipline are shaping the next chapter of global air travel.
Acumen’s Take
This edition reflects an industry balancing expansion with discipline. Fleet growth, infrastructure reform, and ESG alignment continue to shape long-term positioning, even as capital allocation remains measured. Airlines and lessors are optimising portfolios rather than chasing volume, while regulators and airports focus on capacity resilience. The common thread is strategic control; growth is being pursued, but with sharper attention to asset efficiency, operational reliability, and sustainable execution as 2026 gathers pace.
