22 Jan 2026
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 22nd January 2026
Acumen Aviation Newsletters
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IrishAero News
Airbus A330neo EI-TYG Joins ITA Airways
ITA Airways took delivery of its latest Airbus A330-941, registered EI-TYG (msn 2117), on 31 December, as it continues to build out its long-haul fleet in line with its 2026–2030 business plan. The aircraft, named Lella Lombardi, is configured with 291 seats across a three-class layout and was ferried from Toulouse to Rome Fiumicino. The delivery supports ITA’s strategy to expand intercontinental operations, with planned new routes linking Rome to key markets across North America, South America, Asia, and Africa, reflecting the carrier’s focus on long-haul growth and an increasingly global customer base.
Emirates Reports Record Irish Growth
Emirates has reported a record year of growth in the Irish market, with 2025 shaping up as one of its strongest performances to date driven by robust passenger demand, solid cargo volumes across diversified product categories, and strong uptake of its new Premium Economy offering. Based on year-end forecasts, Emirates carried approximately 275,000 passengers from Dublin through its Dubai hub between January and December 2025, while total passenger traffic between Dublin and Dubai, including inbound and outbound travel, is expected to exceed 453,000 for the first time, underlining Ireland’s growing importance within the airline’s global network.
ITA Airways Receives Three Irish-Registered A220s
ITA Airways has taken delivery of three Irish-registered Airbus A220-300 aircraft, all ferried directly from Montréal–Mirabel to Rome Fiumicino, continuing the airline’s fleet renewal programme. Two aircraft, EI-TEB (c/n 55407) and EI-TEC (c/n 55413), were delivered on 13 December 2025, followed by EI-TED (c/n 55419) on 5 January 2026, strengthening ITA Airways’ short- and medium-haul operations with the latest-generation A220 platform.
Aircraft Update
F-HBXL Embraer 170 Ferried to Exeter for Aldus Leasing
An Embraer 170, registered F-HBXL (c/n 17000009), was ferried to Exeter on 22 December 2025 under the ownership of Aldus Leasing. The aircraft was previously registered as EI-DFH and has transitioned following its latest ownership change. The ferry flight reflects continued secondary market activity for early-generation regional jets within the leasing sector.
F-HBXM Embraer 170 Ferried to Milwaukee for HOP!
An Embraer 170, registered F-HBXM (c/n 17000010), was ferried to Milwaukee on 7 January 2026. The aircraft was previously registered as EI-DFI and is associated with HOP! following its latest transition. The movement highlights ongoing repositioning activity within the regional jet fleet as operators and owners manage assets across markets.
Global Aviation News
Allegiant Travel Co.–Sun Country Airlines Deal Signals Potential New Wave of Airline Consolidation
The US airline sector is closely watching developments following Allegiant’s agreement to acquire Sun Country Airlines in a cash-and-stock transaction valued at approximately $1.5 billion, including around $400 million of debt. The combined leisure-focused carrier would operate more than 650 routes and nearly 200 aircraft under the Allegiant brand, with hubs in Las Vegas and Minneapolis–St. Paul. The deal points to renewed consolidation momentum, with expected revenue and cost synergies driven by scale efficiencies, fleet optimisation, and procurement leverage.
Kalitta Air’s Big Twin Begins Flying to South America
Kalitta Air has commenced Boeing 777-300ERSF operations to South America, marking the fifth continent served by its “Big Twin” freighter fleet. The first aircraft to operate into the region was a 2006-built 777-300ERSF (msn 32792), formerly operated by Emirates and leased from AerCap. The aircraft completed its inaugural South American sector from Miami to Lima on 22 December 2025, highlighting growing long-haul freighter deployment into the region.
Cargo Air Supports Cargo Wings Express 737-300F Launch
Cargo Air has dry leased two Boeing 737-300SF freighters to Tunisia-based Cargo Wings Express as the startup prepares to commence cargo operations. The two aircraft are positioned in Tunis, with deliveries completed in mid and late December following their exit from service with Cargo Air. The arrangement highlights continued secondary-market utilisation of classic narrowbody freighters to support new entrant cargo operators.
Central Airlines Retires Final 737-300F from Fleet
Central Airlines has removed the last Boeing 737-300F from its fleet following the sale of a third 737-300F to Aircraft Finance Germany. The 1993-built aircraft (msn 25998) has been acquired by the German lessor and leased to Indonesia-based Trigana Air Service, marking the end of Central Airlines’ 737 Classic operations. The aircraft departed Chinese airspace on 22 December 2025, reflecting continued redistribution of ageing freighter assets into secondary markets.
Estonian Government Considers Liquidation of State-Owned Aircraft Lessor
The Estonian government is assessing the potential liquidation of Transpordi Varahaldus, the state-owned aircraft lessor, following the sale of its final aircraft. The move comes after the disposal of the last ex-Xfly CRJ900ER as part of a wider transaction with Regional One completed in July 2025. With no remaining assets or external clients beyond Nordica and Xfly, authorities are now evaluating how to resolve outstanding claims linked to Nordica’s ongoing bankruptcy proceedings.
Emirates Unveils Grand Slam-Themed A380 Livery
Emirates has revealed a new Airbus A380 special livery celebrating its long-standing sponsorship of all four Grand Slam tennis tournaments. The design features tennis-inspired elements and colour schemes representing the Australian Open, Roland-Garros, Wimbledon, and the US Open. The aircraft has already entered service, debuting in Melbourne, and will operate across the network in the coming years as a visible symbol of Emirates’ global sports partnerships.
Etihad Airways to Launch First-Ever Middle East–Luxembourg Nonstop Service
Etihad Airways will make aviation history by becoming the first Middle Eastern airline to serve Luxembourg, launching the only nonstop connection between Luxembourg and Abu Dhabi from 29 October 2026. The new route will operate three times weekly, strengthening direct links between the Benelux region and the UAE.
Delta Air Lines Executives Signal Consolidation and Activist Pressure Among Low-Cost Carriers
Delta Air Lines executives have warned of further consolidation across the airline industry, particularly among low-cost carriers facing weakening economy-class revenues. CEO Ed Bastian indicated that carriers with underperforming profitability may be pushed towards mergers, restructuring, or liquidation, while others could come under increased pressure from activist investors. The comments point to a period of heightened rationalisation in the low-cost segment as financial performance and capital discipline come under closer scrutiny.
Norse Atlantic Airways Achieves 26% Passenger Growth in 2025
Norse Atlantic Airways reported a 26% year-on-year increase in passenger numbers in 2025, carrying 1.84 million passengers with a full-year load factor of 96%. The performance reflects the success of its dual-strategy model across scheduled and charter operations, introduced in the second half of the year. December traffic remained strong, with load factors reaching 98%, underlining sustained demand despite operational challenges related to air traffic control, congestion, and weather.
The Moving Regional Aviation Sweet Spot and Why Legacy Aircraft Are Falling Behind
A recent analysis argues that the long-standing focus on range as the defining metric for regional aircraft has become increasingly outdated. In reality, the sustainability of regional air service is driven more by short-haul economics, including break-even risk, cost variability, and the ability to maintain high-frequency schedules on thin routes. As regional flying continues to concentrate on sectors well under 300–400 kilometres, legacy aircraft designs are struggling to adapt to a shifting operational “sweet spot” shaped by efficiency and frequency rather than maximum range.
Irish Aviation News
Airline Tech Is Changing the Rules: What OOSD and Modern Retailing Really Mean for Travel Agencies — by Mark Lenahan
A new analysis by Mark Lenahan outlines how airlines are progressively replacing legacy PNR- and ticket-based systems with Offers and Orders under the Modern Airline Retailing (MAR) model. Architectures such as OOSD are expected to reshape airline distribution, pricing, and servicing over the next decade, reducing reliance on traditional GDS economics. As airlines move toward dynamic offers and API-driven retailing, travel agencies face shifting cost structures and workflows, with early adopters likely to gain a competitive edge while slower movers risk diminished content access and relevance.
‘Exciting Horizon’ Ahead for Irish Tourism, Says Peter Burke
Ireland’s Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke, has pointed to a strong outlook for Irish tourism following the announcement of a €4.7 billion government investment plan. The funding, to be rolled out over five years, is aimed at strengthening the sector and supporting long-term growth. Burke highlighted the importance of tourism to the rural economy, describing the plan as a key pillar in sustaining regional development and national connectivity.
Fingal County Council Rejects McEvaddy Planning Application at Dublin Airport
Fingal County Council has refused a planning application for aviation-related cargo facilities on the western campus of Dublin Airport. The proposal, submitted by DA Terminal 3 Ltd, sought approval for four 24/7 cargo-handling units with associated office space on a 30-acre site at Huntstown, Swords. The land is located between the airport’s two main runways, placing the decision within the wider context of ongoing capacity and development constraints at Dublin Airport.
High Ridge Aviation Enters Freighter Segment with A330-300P2F Acquisition
High Ridge Aviation has entered the freighter market with the acquisition of its first cargo aircraft, an Airbus A330-300P2F, from CDB Aviation. The 2008-built aircraft (msn 958), formerly operated by China Southern, marks the lessor’s initial step into dedicated freighter leasing. The transaction signals High Ridge’s intention to expand its presence in the cargo segment as demand for converted widebody freighters remains resilient.
ITTN Departs for Barbados with BTMI, TTR and Aer Lingus
ITTN has departed for a familiarisation trip to Barbados in partnership with Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. and Travel Trade Representation, aimed at promoting the destination to Irish and UK travel agents. The trip also showcases Aer Lingus’ direct Manchester–Barbados service, highlighting accommodation options and visitor experiences on the island. The Irish delegation travelled via Dublin and Manchester before continuing on Aer Lingus’ transatlantic service to Grantley Adams International Airport, supporting trade engagement and route awareness.
Jackson Square Aviation Marks Departure of President and CCO Chris Dailey
Jackson Square Aviation has acknowledged the departure of Chris Dailey, President and Chief Commercial Officer, in December 2025 following 15 years with the company. Dailey played a central role in shaping JSA’s global commercial strategy, overseeing sales, marketing, aircraft trading, and orderbook management across multiple market cycles. His tenure also included significant contributions to the growth of JSA’s Dublin operations and the strengthening of its global airline relationships.
Ryanair to Cut 2.2 Million Seats at Brussels-Charleroi Airport
Ryanair has revised its Brussels schedules, reducing seat capacity at Charleroi by 1.1 million in 2026, with a further 1.1 million seats to be cut in 2027. The airline said the decision is in response to proposed passenger tax increases by Charleroi City Council and the Belgian government. Ryanair warned that higher taxes risk diverting traffic and jobs to more competitive European markets that have moved to reduce or abolish aviation levies.
International Air Transport Association Warns SAF Availability Is a Growing Concern
IATA Director General Willie Walsh has warned that limited availability of sustainable aviation fuel could prevent airlines from meeting near-term decarbonisation targets. IATA expects SAF supply to reach just 2.4 million tonnes in 2026, covering around 0.8% of global fuel demand, with production growth slowing sharply. Walsh said the issue is not cost but insufficient volumes, while highlighting concerns that regulatory mandates in Europe and the UK are contributing to further price pressure.
Saudia Cargo to Commence ASL A330-300P2F Operations
Saudia Cargo is set to begin A330-300P2F operations this month under a new ACMI agreement with ASL Aviation Holdings. The first aircraft, MSN 1272 (ex-China Airlines), is expected to enter service following completion of registration and entry-into-service checks. The aircraft has been positioned at Dubai World Central since 1 December 2025 after arriving from Shannon Airport, highlighting Ireland’s continued role in widebody freighter transitions and ACMI preparation activity.
Simtech Aviation Expands Partnership with Aer Lingus
Simtech Aviation has announced an expansion of its long-term partnership with Aer Lingus, part of International Airlines Group, strengthening Dublin’s role as a hub for advanced pilot training. The programme will see new CAE full-flight simulators introduced at Simtech’s Dublin facility, covering the Airbus A320neo and A330 families in early 2026, followed by the A321XLR in 2027. The investment supports next-generation fleet training requirements and builds on Simtech’s established position as a multi-fleet training provider serving more than 20 airlines worldwide.
Tourism Northern Ireland Launches Spring Industry Support Programme
Tourism Northern Ireland has unveiled a Spring industry support programme aimed at strengthening the region’s tourism offering through a mix of in-person and online events. The programme includes 10 sessions across eight locations, covering AI adoption, marketing, sustainability, accessibility, and luxury tourism experiences. It launches on 15 January with an AI-focused analytics webinar, followed by further sessions through February, including a Marketing Masterclass at the Crowne Plaza Belfast, where businesses will engage directly with Tourism NI’s marketing teams and agency partners on campaign participation and year-round promotional opportunities.
Tweet Picks
@eoghancorry Latest #CSO for November, Ireland outbound trips was 957,400, up 7.6pc on 2024 and 56.4pc on pre-pandemic, when the CSO used a different methodology and may have mis-stated the inbound/outbound ratio. Rolling annual was 14,184,400, up 10.2pc on the twelve months to November 2024.
@eoghancorry Visitor numbers to Ireland form all markets are down 4.6pc in the twelve months to November according to the latest figures from the Central Statistics Office. Rolling annual was 6,271,100 compared with 6,645,900 in the twelve months to November 2024.
@eoghancorry For the month of November, Visitors from Spain and Portugal were up 15.6pc on last year and down 6.1pc on pre-pandemic, rolling annual was 287,500 down 9.5pc on the 12 months to November 2024.
@eoghancorry For the month of November, Visitors from Canada were up 37.7pc on last year and down 50.6pc on pre-pandemic, rolling annual was 215,200, up 10.2pc on the 12 months to November 2024.
Video Picks
Aengus Kelly in Conversation with KPMG’s Joe O’Mara
AerCap CEO Aengus Kelly speaks with Joe O’Mara of KPMG on the state of the aircraft leasing market, capital discipline, manufacturer backlogs, and how lessors are navigating supply constraints, geopolitics, and long-term fleet demand. The discussion offers a clear view into how scale, balance-sheet strength, and risk management are shaping the next phase of aviation finance.
Alaska Air Group Places Record Boeing Order in Global Growth Push
Alaska Air outlines its largest-ever aircraft order with Boeing, framing the deal as a long-term move to support network growth, fleet simplification, and operating efficiency. The video explores how the order fits into Alaska’s competitive positioning, capacity planning, and ambitions beyond its traditional West Coast stronghold.
Bhogapuram Airport Set for Launch by June 2026
This video outlines progress on Andhra Pradesh’s Bhogapuram Airport, a major greenfield infrastructure project expected to commence operations by June 2026. Designed to ease congestion at Visakhapatnam and support long-term regional growth, the airport is positioned as a strategic hub for domestic and international connectivity, with broader implications for trade, tourism, and investment across the state.
Acumen’s Take
Capacity, capital, and control are emerging as the defining themes across today’s aviation landscape. Fleet activity remains strong, but delivery backlogs, freighter reallocation, and regional jet churn show how constrained supply is shaping strategy just as much as demand. Consolidation signals are growing louder, particularly in the low-cost and leisure segments, as scale and balance-sheet resilience become critical differentiators. At the same time, sustainability ambition is running ahead of practical fuel availability, exposing a widening gap between policy targets and operational reality. For airlines, lessors, and regulators alike, 2026 is shaping up to be less about growth at any cost and more about disciplined choices in an increasingly tight system.
