20 Jun 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 20th 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
N3103D Airbus A330-202 Registered to CSDS Asset Management
Airbus A330-202 (c/n 1313), registered as N3103D, has been registered to CSDS Asset Management at Rome Fiumicino on 25 May 2025. The aircraft was previously operated as EI-EJN.
Acumen’s Take
The registration of N3103D reflects ongoing asset transitions in the widebody market. Such movements offer opportunities for portfolio optimisation, secondary market placements, and potential redeployment amid steady demand for mid-life A330 assets.
2-HDYJ Boeing 737-8JP Ferried to Oslo Gardermoen
Boeing 737-8JP (c/n 39045), registered as 2-HDYJ, was ferried to Oslo Gardermoen on 5 June 2025. The aircraft, managed by Avora Aviation, was previously operated as LN-DYJ.
Acumen’s Take
The ferry of 2-HDYJ illustrates the continued repositioning of narrowbody assets within Europe. Acumen tracks such movements closely to support clients in asset transition management, remarketing strategies, and future lease placement opportunities.
Global Aviation News
Airbus Moderates Industry-Wide Aircraft Delivery Growth Outlook
Airbus has revised its industry-wide aircraft delivery growth forecast, lowering expectations for the next 20 years. The adjustment reflects evolving trade dynamics, geopolitical factors, and shifting global market conditions that are reshaping long-term demand projections.
Acumen’s Take
Airbus’ moderated forecast underscores the impact of broader macroeconomic and political uncertainties on fleet planning. Acumen closely monitors such shifts to inform lessors, investors, and operators on recalibrated long-term demand scenarios and their implications for portfolio strategies.
BermudAir Announces Delivery of Third Aircraft to Strengthen Operations
BermudAir has taken delivery of its third aircraft as part of its ongoing effort to enhance operational reliability and service quality. The additional aircraft is expected to support the airline’s expanding route network and provide greater scheduling flexibility for passengers.
Acumen’s Take
The delivery of BermudAir’s third aircraft reflects the steady expansion of niche regional operators. Acumen continues to track fleet additions across emerging carriers, which present growing opportunities for asset deployment, regional network development, and capacity optimization
BOC Aviation Signs Lease Agreement With Avianca
BOC Aviation has entered into an agreement with Airbus to acquire nine Airbus A320neo aircraft, all of which will be placed on long-term lease with Avianca. The aircraft, equipped with CFM LEAP-1A engines, are scheduled for delivery in 2027, supporting Avianca’s fleet modernisation and network expansion plans.
Acumen’s Take
This transaction underscores sustained demand for new-generation narrowbodies among Latin American carriers. Acumen continues to monitor lessor-led placements that drive fleet renewal across growth markets, offering long-term value for both lessors and operators.
EgyptAir to Boost A330P2F Capacity Next Year
EgyptAir plans to expand its freighter fleet by adding two Airbus A330-200P2F aircraft in the first half of 2026. The move will enhance the carrier’s medium-widebody cargo capabilities as part of its broader cargo business growth strategy. The update was shared during the Air Cargo Europe 2025 event in Munich.
Acumen’s Take
The addition of A330P2F freighters reflects the ongoing momentum in widebody conversion demand, particularly among national carriers diversifying cargo operations. Acumen continues to track the active P2F market as airlines leverage mid-life twin-aisle assets to capture growing airfreight opportunities.
FedEx Marks 40 Years of Transatlantic Flights with Spotlight on Brussels
FedEx Express is commemorating the 40th anniversary of its first scheduled transatlantic service, which began on 15 June 1985. Brussels played a pivotal role in this milestone, serving as a key hub alongside New York and London in the early development of express shipping between the United States and Europe.
Acumen’s Take
The anniversary highlights the long-standing importance of strategic hubs like Brussels in global express cargo networks. FedEx’s sustained operations underscore the durability of cross-border e-commerce and time-sensitive freight demand, which continue to influence fleet strategy, hub development, and cargo network optimization.
IATA CO2 Connect Integrated into the Amadeus Travel Platform
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Amadeus have announced the integration of IATA’s CO2 Connect flight-specific emissions data into the Amadeus Travel Platform. This collaboration will enable airlines, travel agents, corporate travel managers, and online platforms to provide travellers with trusted, flight-specific CO2 emissions data directly at the point of booking.
Acumen’s Take
The integration of CO2 Connect into booking platforms reflects growing industry focus on transparent environmental reporting. As passenger demand for sustainable travel choices rises, access to accurate emissions data at booking can influence purchasing decisions and support airlines' ESG commitments, further embedding sustainability into commercial and distribution strategies.
Irish Aviation News
Aer Lingus Partners with Dr Norah Patten Ahead of Her Space Mission
Aer Lingus has announced a partnership with Dr Norah Patten as she prepares for her upcoming mission to become the first Irish person in space. The collaboration supports Norah’s training and research activities ahead of her flight, including travel between Ireland and North America where she is conducting advanced research at Canada’s National Research Council with the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences (IIAS). A dedicated advocate for STEM education, Dr Patten continues to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers through her work.
Acumen’s Take
This partnership highlights Aer Lingus’ alignment with innovation, education, and the growing intersection between commercial aviation and space exploration. As aerospace frontiers continue to expand, such collaborations enhance Ireland’s visibility in global STEM fields while fostering future workforce development opportunities within the aviation and aerospace sectors.
DAE Signs Definitive Agreements to Sell Approximately 75 Aircraft
Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) has announced the signing of definitive agreements with two counterparties to sell approximately 75 aircraft. The company has not disclosed specific terms of the transactions. This development marks a significant portfolio adjustment for the global aviation services provider.
Acumen’s Take
Large-scale asset sales such as this reflect active portfolio management strategies as lessors respond to shifting market conditions, demand cycles, and capital allocation priorities. These transactions may also create secondary market opportunities for investors, lessors, and operators looking to access mid-life and younger aircraft assets.
Investec Aviation Supports Genesis and Barings with Strategic Financing
Investec Aviation has successfully partnered with Genesis and Barings to provide a senior debt facility for a portfolio of 12 end-of-life narrow-body aircraft. The aircraft are on lease to a range of global operators. This marks Investec’s second financing transaction with Genesis, following a previous single aircraft facility completed in 2024.
Acumen’s Take
This transaction underscores sustained investor appetite for end-of-life assets as lessors and financiers continue to unlock value across all stages of the asset lifecycle. Strategic financing solutions remain critical in supporting portfolio diversification and optimising lease return potential, particularly for secondary market aircraft.
Kerry Airport Reports Profit of Almost €1.4 Million for 2024
Kerry Airport has announced a profit of €1,373,300 after tax for 2024, reflecting a 14% increase compared to the previous year. The airport handled 417,409 passengers over the year, with expectations of continued passenger growth in 2025 according to CFO Basil Sheerin.
Acumen’s Take
Kerry Airport’s sustained profitability and rising passenger numbers highlight the resilience of Ireland’s regional airports. Continued growth supports local economic development while offering potential opportunities for regional network expansion and future route development strategies.
Phoenix Aviation Capital and AIP Capital Close $300 Million Credit Facility
Phoenix Aviation Capital, managed by AIP Capital and backed by BC Partners, has announced the successful closing of a $300 million senior secured credit facility. The new facility will provide additional capital to support Phoenix's leasing activities and portfolio expansion.
Acumen’s Take
This financing underscores the continued investor confidence in aircraft leasing as a growth sector. Access to significant secured credit facilities allows lessors like Phoenix to maintain competitive acquisition strategies and meet increasing airline demand for fleet renewal and expansion.
Planning Delays Have Cost Dublin Airport €500 Million – Kenny Jacobs
Dublin Airport CEO Kenny Jacobs revealed that planning delays have cost the airport approximately €500 million over the past four years, with €300 million attributed to inflation impacting its €2.3 billion development plan. He expects challenges ahead as new legislation is introduced to address capacity constraints. The delays are stalling vital infrastructure projects needed to support growing passenger volumes.
Acumen’s Take
Prolonged planning delays risk undermining Dublin Airport’s growth trajectory amid rising demand. Efficient approval processes are essential to enable infrastructure expansion and safeguard Ireland’s position as a key European aviation hub, directly impacting future capacity planning and regional economic development.
Ryanair Launches New Trieste–Stockholm Route for Summer 2025
Ryanair has launched a new direct route connecting Trieste and Stockholm Arlanda, operating twice weekly as part of its 2025 summer schedule. The service was officially inaugurated on 11 June at Trieste Airport, with Ryanair executives and local officials attending the event.
Acumen’s Take
This new route reflects Ryanair’s continued focus on expanding secondary city connectivity across Europe. The addition supports regional tourism, enhances accessibility, and demonstrates the carrier’s strategy to strengthen its presence in underserved markets while optimising aircraft utilisation during peak season.
Tweet Picks
@AviationWeek @Airbus has lowered its industry-wide aircraft delivery growth rate forecast over the next two decades as it adjusts its market expectations to new trade and political realities.
@AviationWeek Dutch startup Maeve Aerospace has redesigned its planned hybrid-electric regional aircraft to target the replacement of today’s regional jets beginning around the middle of the next decade.
@AviationWeek .@FlyAirNZ is preparing to resume short-haul network growth as it boosts its operational narrowbody fleet, and the carrier is also looking further ahead to new long-haul opportunities.
@AviationWeek #Ryanair will add more CFM International Leap-1B engines to its spares pool after announcing an agreement with the GE Aerospace-Safran joint venture to buy 30 more engines. @CFM_engines.
Video Picks
daa CEO Kenny Jacobs Full Media Presentation
In this detailed media presentation, daa CEO Kenny Jacobs addresses Dublin Airport’s ongoing challenges and future growth plans. He discusses financial pressures stemming from planning delays, outlines infrastructure investment priorities, and highlights the airport’s role in supporting Ireland’s economic development amid rising passenger demand.
Acumen’s Take
Jacobs’ remarks emphasise the critical role of proactive infrastructure development to sustain Dublin Airport’s growth trajectory. The insights are particularly relevant for stakeholders assessing Ireland’s long-term aviation capacity, regulatory landscape, and potential constraints on passenger traffic expansion.
Interview with Lynn Guiney, CCO, Macquarie AirFinance
In this interview, Lynn Guiney, Chief Commercial Officer at Macquarie AirFinance, provides insights into the current state of the aircraft leasing market. She highlights the sustained demand for narrowbodies, evolving trends in financing structures, and the importance of portfolio diversification across regions and asset types.
Acumen’s Take
Guiney’s perspective underscores the leasing sector’s resilience amid ongoing fleet modernisation and shifting market dynamics. The continued focus on narrowbody assets and diversified investment strategies aligns with broader industry trends Acumen observes across global leasing portfolios.
United Airlines CEO on JetBlue Partnership, Cheap Flights at Newark and More
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby discusses the strategic benefits of the carrier's expanded partnership with JetBlue, emphasising improved customer choice and stronger network connectivity. He also touches on competitive pricing at Newark, capacity management, and United’s broader growth strategy amid shifting demand patterns.
Acumen’s Take
Kirby’s comments reflect ongoing consolidation of network partnerships as airlines seek to strengthen market positions without full mergers. Acumen sees these joint ventures as a key lever for airlines to optimise fleet deployment and enhance hub utilisation, particularly in capacity-constrained airports like Newark.
