23 Dec 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 23rd 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
Aeromexico Re-Registers Irish Boeing 737s
Aeroméxico has completed the re-registration of its final two Irish-registered aircraft, bringing a multi-year transition programme to a close on 26 November. The aircraft involved are two Boeing 737-8 MAX jets, formerly registered EI-GZB (MSN 42839) and EI-GZC (MSN 42841), both powered by CFM International LEAP-1B27 engines. Following the change, EI-GZB now operates as XA-OTB, while EI-GZC has been re-registered as XA-OTC, fully integrating the aircraft into the Mexican register and marking the end of Aeroméxico’s Irish registrations.
Boeing Delivers First 737 MAX to Ryanair UK
Boeing has delivered the first Boeing 737 MAX 8-200 “Gamechanger” to Ryanair UK, marking a milestone for the London Stansted–based carrier. The aircraft, registered G-RYMA (MSN 67128), was delivered on 11 December, routing directly from Boeing Field to London Stansted as flight RUK82A, arriving at 14:32 local time. Ryanair UK, a subsidiary of the Ryanair Group, began operations in March 2019 and currently operates a fleet of fifteen aircraft, comprising fourteen Boeing 737-800s and now one 197-seat Boeing 737 MAX 8-200, with bases at Belfast International, Edinburgh, London Stansted, and Manchester.
CityJet Phases Out EI-FPR CRJ900
CityJet has phased out one of its Mitsubishi CRJ-900LR aircraft, with EI-FPR (MSN 15436) ferried from Copenhagen to Dayton International Airport on 16–17 December 2025. According to Skyliner Aviation, the aircraft completed a transatlantic routing via Keflavik, Goose Bay, and Toronto before arriving in the United States. The CRJ900 is destined for PSA Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group, where it will operate under the American Eagle brand. The move reflects CityJet’s continued fleet rationalisation as regional capacity transitions within the global network carrier ecosystem.
United Airlines Experiences Surge in Irish Christmas Bookings
United Airlines has reported a sharp surge in transatlantic demand from Ireland over the Christmas festive period, with passenger bookings from Dublin to the United States up 101% year on year between 18 December 2025 and 6 January 2026. The increase follows targeted capacity growth on key routes, including the upgrade of the Dublin–Chicago O'Hare service from a summer-only operation to year-round flying. The move strengthens connectivity between Ireland and the U.S. Midwest, while improving onward connections across United’s wider North American network via its Chicago hub.
Aircraft Update
Avolon Leasing Registers Airbus A320-233 OE-IHY in Madrid
Avolon Leasing has registered an Airbus A320-233, serial number 4741, as OE-IHY on 18 December 2025. The aircraft was previously registered as N517VL and is now recorded in Madrid. The registration reflects ongoing portfolio management activity by Avolon as it positions assets for deployment across its European operating footprint.
Cross Ocean Adviser Ireland Registers Airbus A321-211(F) OE-LGJ in Riga
Cross Ocean Adviser Ireland has registered an Airbus A321-211 freighter, serial number 1713, as OE-LGJ on 16 December 2025. The aircraft was previously registered as 9H-CGJ and is now recorded in Riga. The move reflects continued activity in the A321P2F segment, as lessors and operators position narrowbody freighters to meet sustained demand in the European and regional cargo market.
Global Aviation News
Emirates expands Premium Economy rollout on retrofitted Boeing 777s
Emirates will introduce retrofitted Boeing 777 aircraft with Premium Economy on services between Dubai and Beirut from 6 January 2026, followed by flights to Beijing from 1 February 2026, extending the airline’s next-generation cabin offering across key long-haul markets. The upgrade makes Beijing the fourth mainland Chinese destination to receive Emirates’ latest interiors, while Beirut customers will experience Premium Economy and the new 1-2-1 Business Class layout for the first time. The Beirut schedule is designed to support strong diaspora demand, providing smooth onward connections to major cities in Australia and North America and reinforcing Emirates’ focus on consistent premium experiences across its global network.
EVIO launches hybrid-electric aircraft programme with 450 pre-orders
EVIO Inc. has made its public debut with the launch of the EVIO 810 hybrid-electric regional aircraft, securing conditional purchase agreements and options for 450 aircraft targeted to enter service in the early 2030s. Aimed at the 50–100 seat segment, the clean-sheet design focuses on significantly improved efficiency, lower emissions, and flexible passenger, cargo, and defence applications. The programme is supported by investment and technical collaboration from Boeing, while propulsion development is being carried out in partnership with Pratt & Whitney Canada, positioning EVIO as a serious new entrant in the next generation of regional aircraft.
Austrian Airlines begins short- and medium-haul fleet rollover
Austrian Airlines has formally begun the rollover of its short- and medium-haul fleet with the transfer of its first Embraer 195 to sister carrier Air Dolomiti. The aircraft, registered I-ENJA, previously operated for nine years under the Austrian registration OE-LWM and marks the first of 17 Embraer aircraft set to exit the fleet. COO Stefan-Kenan Scheib noted that the aircraft had provided reliable service over many years and welcomed its continued operation within the Lufthansa Group, highlighting the smooth and efficient execution of the initial phase of the fleet transition.
Air Albania loses operating licence as flag carrier collapses
Air Albania has ceased operations after its operating licence was revoked, bringing an end to a once high-profile national aviation project and leaving behind disrupted passengers, unpaid bills, and affected employees. Launched in 2017 as a public–private venture supported by the Albanian government and Turkish Airlines, the airline was intended to strengthen international connectivity from Tirana and support Albania’s growing tourism sector.
Frontier Group announces interim CEO appointment
Frontier Group Holdings, Inc., the parent company of Frontier Airlines, has announced a leadership transition with President James G. Dempsey appointed as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective 15 December 2025. Current CEO Barry L. Biffle will remain with the company in an advisory role through the end of the year to support continuity. The board highlighted Dempsey’s decade-long role in shaping Frontier’s strategy and growth, signalling a steady-hand approach as the ultra-low-cost carrier navigates its next phase.
GA Telesis completes eighth 737-800SF freighter delivery
GA Telesis has marked its eighth freighter delivery with the placement of a Boeing 737-800SF on lease to Airwork New Zealand through its LIFT leasing division. The aircraft was converted using the Supplemental Type Certificate developed by Aeronautical Engineers Inc., reinforcing GA Telesis’ growing footprint in the narrowbody freighter market. The transaction highlights the company’s integrated approach to conversion, leasing, and asset management as demand for mid-life passenger-to-freighter aircraft continues to strengthen globally.
How Wizz Air reshaped travel across Central and Eastern Europe
Since its launch in 2003, Wizz Air has fundamentally changed how people travel across Central and Eastern Europe by introducing an ultra-low-cost, point-to-point model focused on secondary airports. By dramatically lowering fares and expanding direct connectivity, the airline opened air travel to millions who were previously reliant on ground transport or priced out by legacy carriers. Today, Wizz Air holds around 29% of the CEE aviation market, playing a significant role in boosting regional mobility, tourism, employment, and cross-border economic integration.
ITP Aero to acquire Aero Norway, boosting CFM56 aftermarket strength
ITP Aero has signed a binding agreement to acquire Aero Norway, a specialist MRO provider for CFM56 engines, in a move that strengthens its global aftermarket capabilities. Expected to close in the first half of 2026 subject to regulatory approvals, the acquisition adds a well-regarded CFM56 overhaul platform based at Stavanger’s Sola Airport, supporting airlines, lessors, and asset managers worldwide. The deal aligns with ITP Aero’s growth strategy as demand for CFM56 maintenance remains strong across the in-service fleet.
Lufthansa Group upgrades Airbus A320 fleet with digital flight optimisation
Lufthansa Group has announced a major upgrade programme for its Airbus A320 fleet, aimed at improving efficiency, punctuality, and emissions performance. From 2026, 134 A320s will be retrofitted with the FANS-C digital communication system, enabling ADS-C EPP technology to transmit real-time 4D flight path data to air traffic control. By allowing routes to be adjusted dynamically based on actual conditions, the upgrade is expected to reduce fuel burn, cut CO₂ emissions, and improve on-time performance across Lufthansa Group’s short-haul network.
New Pan Am outlines plans to operate Airbus A320neo aircraft
A revived Pan American World Airways, operating under the Pan Am name, has confirmed plans to include Airbus A320neo aircraft in its future fleet. Co-founder Ed Wegel said the decision reflects both practical fleet planning and historical continuity, noting that the original Pan Am operated Airbus types such as the A300 and A310 and had A320 orders in place before ceasing operations in 1991. The new Pan Am’s A320neo operations will depend on the completion of regulatory approvals and the future availability of aircraft, positioning the type as part of its longer-term growth strategy rather than an immediate launch fleet.
Riyadh Air and Huawei partner to advance next-generation digital aviation
Riyadh Air has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Huawei to accelerate the development of advanced digital capabilities across the airline’s future operations. The agreement brings together Riyadh Air’s global growth ambitions with Huawei’s technology expertise to enhance how passengers discover, book, and experience travel, spanning areas such as smart aviation, digital platforms, and data-driven services. The partnership follows earlier collaboration between the two organisations and adopts a phased approach to digital innovation, reinforcing Riyadh Air’s stated goal of positioning itself among the world’s most digitally advanced airlines as it prepares for launch.
Irish Aviation News
Aer Lingus rolls out new onboard retail experience with dnata
Aer Lingus has launched a new inflight retail programme in partnership with dnata, aimed at enhancing customer experience across its short- and medium-haul network. The five-year inflight retail agreement runs alongside dnata’s existing hub catering contract and will cover more than 180 daily flights operating from Dublin, Shannon, Cork, and Manchester. Under the expanded partnership, dnata will manage the end-to-end retail operation, including product sourcing, procurement, warehousing, and supporting technology, with a focus on giving passengers more personalized and intuitive ways to browse and shop onboard.
LATAM explores direct Braz3il–Dublin service with A321XLR from 2027
LATAM Airlines Group has signalled interest in launching a direct Brazil–Dublin service from 2027, aligned with the planned introduction of its new Airbus A321XLR fleet. The airline has 13 A321XLRs on order, backed by a €2.8bn commitment at list prices, with first deliveries expected in 2027. Offering a range of up to 5,930 km, the A321XLR allows LATAM to serve longer, thinner routes to Europe and the US using narrowbody economics, replacing widebodies with roughly half the capacity. A potential Dublin service would mark a significant expansion of Ireland–South America connectivity, leveraging LATAM’s position as the largest airline group in South America.
MAAS Aviation renews multi-year easyJet aircraft painting contract
MAAS Aviation has renewed its multi-year aircraft painting agreement with easyJet, extending a partnership that began in late 2020. Under the renewed contract, running from the 2025/26 season, MAAS will continue repainting easyJet’s entire Airbus A320 family fleet at its Maastricht facility in the Netherlands. The extension reflects easyJet’s confidence in MAAS Aviation’s streamlined processes, high OEM-quality finishes, and turnaround times aligned with the operational demands of one of Europe’s largest low-cost carriers.
New Garda Air Support Unit Viking 400 arrives at Baldonnel
A new Viking 400 fixed-wing aircraft has arrived at Casement Aerodrome, marking a major upgrade for the Garda Air Support Unit. Delivered from Wiener Neustadt in Austria after specialist surveillance fit-out by Airborne Technologies, the aircraft will join the Irish Air Corps as serial 288 and replaces older fixed-wing capability for An Garda Síochána. Funded through the Brexit Adjustment Reserve, the Viking 400 programme represents a long-term investment of close to €11 million, including the aircraft, full mission suite, and a 10-year maintenance contract, strengthening national aerial surveillance and operational support capability.
Ryanair marks Bratislava milestone with O’Leary showcase flight
Ryanair marked 20 years of operations in Bratislava with a high-profile visit by CEO Michael O’Leary, who staged a short showcase flight between Bratislava Airport and Vienna to underline the carrier’s growth ambitions in the region. O’Leary praised Slovakia’s reduced airport charges and incentive framework, describing Bratislava as a “favourite airport” and signalling significant capacity expansion in the coming years, as Ryanair looks to deepen its Central European footprint on the back of supportive government policy.
TrueNoord strengthens finance leadership to support growth
Irish-headquartered regional aircraft lessor TrueNoord has expanded its senior team with the appointment of Brendan Dempsey as Finance Manager, based in the company’s Amsterdam office. Dempsey brings more than a decade of aircraft leasing experience, having started his career with KPMG in Ireland before moving into finance roles at AMCK Aviation and AIP Capital. A graduate of Gardner–Webb University in North Carolina, he cited TrueNoord’s strong reputation in the regional jet leasing market as a key reason for joining, underlining the company’s continued focus on building depth and expertise to support ongoing business growth.
Prof Marina Efthymiou honoured with Women in Aviation Award
Prof Marina Efthymiou has been recognised with the Women in Aviation Award at the Aviation Industry Awards 2025, marking a significant moment for diversity and inclusion within Ireland’s aviation sector. Based at Dublin City University, Prof Efthymiou was honoured for her sustained academic and industry-focused work highlighting gender inequality, intersectionality, and systemic barriers across aviation. Having made Ireland her home nearly a decade ago, she described the award as both a personal honour and a collective recognition of women and underrepresented voices who continue to challenge structural and cultural norms in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
World Star Aviation delivers Boeing 737-800BCF to West Atlantic
World Star Aviation has delivered a Boeing 737-800BCF to the West Atlantic, marking the first of two additional freighters being placed with the operator. The aircraft will support West Atlantic’s cargo network across the UK and Europe and is expected to enter service shortly. This latest delivery brings the total number of aircraft placed by World Star Aviation with West Atlantic to five, reinforcing a long-standing partnership and reflecting continued demand for efficient narrowbody freighter capacity as cargo operators focus on flexibility and regional network growth.
10th Annual Star Alliance Christmas Lunch brings industry together
The Star Alliance marked a decade of its Christmas Lunch tradition with the 10th annual gathering, bringing together partners, industry colleagues, and guests from across the Irish travel and aviation community. The event served as an opportunity to reflect on another busy year for the alliance and its member airlines, while also celebrating long-standing relationships and collaboration within the sector. As in previous years, the lunch reinforced Star Alliance’s strong engagement with the Irish market and its focus on maintaining close ties with industry stakeholders.
Tweet Picks
@PghBizTimes Pittsburgh International Airport secured nonstop Dublin flights with Aer Lingus after a decade of effort, aided by the Steelers and business community.
@Qantas Our first @Airbus A350-1000ULR (Ultra Long Range) aircraft is now on the final assembly line in Toulouse! This marks a significant step in #ProjectSunrise, which will conquer the final frontier of long-haul travel with non-stop flights between Australia's east coast and London and New York.
@RunwayGirl Boeing expects 737 MAX and 787 deliveries to grow in 2026 and that aircraft production will be better aligned with deliveries, the airframer’s newly appointed CFO Jay Malave said this morning at the UBS Global Industrials and Transportation Conference.
@WinderKit Ryanair $RYA FCF and share price taking off. Cheap and punctual flights, led by a unique and brilliant CEO, who has created a cost advantage so powerful they can undercut competitors by miles and still make higher margins...
Video Picks
Delta’s Charlotte Lollar Highlights the Future of Flight
In this video, Delta Air Lines executive Charlotte Lollar shares her perspective on how the future of flight is being shaped by technology, sustainability, and evolving passenger expectations. She discusses the role of innovation in aircraft design, operations, and customer experience, alongside the importance of collaboration across the aviation ecosystem. The conversation offers a forward-looking view of how airlines are preparing for long-term change while balancing efficiency, resilience, and the needs of tomorrow’s travellers.
Flying at the Transformed Pittsburgh International Airport
This video takes viewers inside Pittsburgh International Airport, showcasing how the airport has been reimagined around efficiency, sustainability, and passenger experience. It highlights the new terminal concept, streamlined passenger flows, and the airport’s focus on energy independence and modern design. The feature offers a clear look at how a mid-sized U.S. hub is redefining airport operations while positioning itself for future growth.
From Pittsburgh to Dublin: New Nonstop Flights Begin Next Year
This video covers the announcement of a new nonstop air link between Pittsburgh and Dublin, marking a significant boost to transatlantic connectivity. It outlines what the route means for business, tourism, and cultural ties, while highlighting growing demand between Ireland and the U.S. Midwest. The new service reinforces Dublin’s role as a key transatlantic gateway and expands direct travel options for passengers on both sides of the Atlantic.
Acumen’s Take
As 2025 draws to a close, the aviation sector is clearly shifting from recovery to recalibration. Airlines, lessors, and airports are balancing growth ambitions with tighter capital discipline, digital transformation, and operational resilience. Narrowbody efficiency, cargo flexibility, and premium differentiation continue to shape fleet and network decisions. At the same time, leadership changes and regulatory pressures underline how fragile momentum can be without execution discipline. The year ahead looks less about expansion for its own sake and more about making existing strategies work harder, smarter, and more sustainably.
