Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 23rd July 2025
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23 Jul 2025

Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 23rd July 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:
 

IrishAero News

Aer Lingus Deploys A321XLR on Key European Routes

Aer Lingus has begun operating its new Airbus A321neo-XLR on select high-traffic European routes from its Dublin hub this summer. While designed for transatlantic missions, the long-range narrowbody is currently being utilised on intra-Europe services to optimise fleet availability and operational flexibility. Destinations include Amsterdam, Brussels, London Heathrow, Munich, and Paris CDG—providing passengers with an enhanced onboard experience typically reserved for longer-haul flights.

 

Acumen’s Take

This strategic deployment underscores the versatility of the A321XLR and reflects Aer Lingus’ agile fleet planning. By using XLRs on shorter sectors during seasonal lulls in transatlantic demand, the airline ensures optimal aircraft utilisation while elevating the passenger experience on competitive European routes.

 

ASL Airlines Ireland Adds Fourth 737-800 BDSF

ASL Airlines Ireland has expanded its freighter fleet with the delivery of a fourth Boeing 737-800 BDSF, enhancing its cargo capacity within the DHL Aviation network. The aircraft, registered EI-HRC (MSN 29968), previously flew as N67TC under iAero Airways in DHL livery. It recently arrived in Shannon, where it will soon enter service across DHL’s pan-European logistics routes.

 

Acumen’s Take

This latest addition highlights ASL’s continued investment in narrowbody freighter conversions to meet Europe’s robust e-commerce and express freight demand. The 737-800 BDSF remains a reliable workhorse in short-haul cargo operations, and its integration strengthens both ASL’s strategic alignment with DHL and Shannon’s profile as a key logistics node.

 

Cork Airport Secures Third Daily KLM Flight

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is set to boost connectivity at Cork Airport by launching a third-daily service to Amsterdam Schiphol this winter, except during the low season from January 4 to February 20, 2026. The enhanced schedule provides expanded access to KLM’s network of over 160 global destinations. This move taps into strong Dutch travel interest, with the South-West ranking as the most-visited region in Ireland by Dutch tourists outside Dublin.

 

Acumen’s Take

This increased frequency is a strategic win for both Cork Airport and Ireland’s regional tourism economy. It improves schedule flexibility for business and leisure travellers, while reinforcing Cork’s growing role in the country’s international aviation landscape. The move also underscores KLM’s confidence in Irish regional demand and the airport’s operational performance.

 

Emirates Unveils 2025’s Hottest Summer Getaways, Ireland Climbs in Searches

As global travel demand surges, Emirates has released its list of top trending summer destinations for 2025. The data, drawn from global search and booking trends, reveals a growing preference for culturally rich and off-the-beaten-path locations. Notably, Ireland has seen a marked increase in interest, climbing up the rankings as travellers seek immersive experiences and cooler summer climates.

 

Acumen’s Take

Ireland’s rise in Emirates’ summer destination rankings reflects the broader market shift toward experiential travel and seasonal comfort. This momentum presents a valuable opportunity for Irish airports, tourism bodies, and aviation stakeholders to bolster inbound connectivity and tailor offerings to the premium traveller segment. Enhanced air access and partnerships with Gulf carriers could further capitalize on this upward trend.

 

Ryanair Group Reports 19.9 Million Passengers in June

Ryanair Group recorded 19.9 million passengers in June 2025, reflecting a 3% year-on-year increase. The airline also maintained a strong load factor of 95%, highlighting its operational efficiency and continued demand across its extensive European network.

 

Acumen’s Take

Ryanair’s sustained growth underscores its dominance in the European low-cost sector and reinforces its strategic push to increase market share amid a competitive summer season. The high load factor signals efficient capacity management and bodes well for Q3 financials, especially as the carrier eyes further network expansion and deeper penetration into secondary airports.

 

Aircraft Update

CityJet’s EI-FPN CRJ900 Delivered to Dayton

CityJet has delivered a Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft, registration EI-FPN (MSN 15433), to Dayton on 16 July 2025. The aircraft movement underscores the operator’s ongoing commitment to regional connectivity, especially across transatlantic-linked feeder routes. The CRJ900 remains a workhorse in right-sizing short-haul capacity, offering efficiency for underserved regional sectors.

 

Acumen’s Take

The transfer of EI-FPN highlights the continuing relevance of regional jets in fleet strategies post-pandemic. As airlines look to optimize route economics and fill frequency gaps without oversupplying capacity, platforms like the CRJ900 offer an agile solution. Dayton’s selection also indicates renewed investment in US regional airport hubs—an encouraging sign for lessors and service providers operating in the small-to-midsize aircraft space.

 

CityJet’s CRJ900 OE-LON Delivered for Re-registration as EI-HSC

A Bombardier CRJ900, bearing manufacturer serial number 15084 and previously registered as OE-LON, was delivered by CityJet on 16 July 2025. The aircraft was ferried from Maastricht to Copenhagen and is expected to be re-registered as EI-HSC. This transition marks another step in CityJet’s ongoing CRJ900 fleet optimisation and operational realignment across Northern Europe.

 

Acumen’s Take

This delivery and impending re-registration align with CityJet’s strategic fleet management approach, supporting ACMI operations for regional flag carriers. The CRJ900’s redeployment in Scandinavia enhances connectivity in high-frequency, short-haul corridors. For lessors and MRO providers, such transitions reflect stable demand for mid-life regional jets in wet-lease environments, particularly across Nordic and Benelux markets.


Global Aviation News

Air France–KLM moves to become majority owner in SAS

Air France–KLM has officially announced its intention to become the majority stakeholder in Scandinavian carrier SAS. This move signifies a pivotal chapter for SAS and is a major strategic realignment in the European aviation sector.

 

Acumen’s Take

The potential acquisition signals further consolidation among European network carriers. By integrating SAS, Air France–KLM strengthens its northern European footprint, gains greater connectivity across the region, and enhances its competitive stance against Lufthansa Group and IAG. This could prompt further alliance realignments and reshape route synergies across the continent.

 

Air Zimbabwe pays $1m to rejoin GDS systems

Air Zimbabwe has paid over USD 1 million to rejoin global distribution systems (GDS), a move aimed at reviving its international ticketing and code-share capabilities. The announcement was made by CEO Edmund Makona in Victoria Falls on July 1, highlighting its significance in the airline’s turnaround efforts.

 

Acumen’s Take

Reintegrating with GDS platforms is essential for Air Zimbabwe to regain visibility in global markets and connect with international travel agents and carriers. This step marks a foundational move in rebuilding network connectivity, restoring consumer confidence, and attracting interline partnerships necessary for long-term sustainability.

 

ASL Airlines Australia Expands Fleet with Second B737-800BCF Lease

ASL Airlines Australia has expanded its freighter fleet with the lease of a second Boeing 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF). 

 

Acumen’s Take

For ASL, scaling up with another B737-800BCF supports more flexible and frequent express and e-commerce logistics, positioning it as a stronger player in a growing segment of the cargo industry.

 

ATSG Leases First EASA-Certified A321 Converted Freighter To Warsaw Cargo

Air Transport Services Group (ATSG) has delivered its first A321 passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversion certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) to Warsaw Cargo. This marks a significant milestone for both ATSG and the Polish-based cargo carrier, as it strengthens Warsaw Cargo’s operational capabilities and positions the airline for growth in the European express and e-commerce markets.

 

Acumen’s Take

This EASA-certified A321 P2F lease highlights the growing relevance of converted narrowbody freighters in Europe's evolving air cargo sector. For ATSG, it expands their leasing footprint with next-generation assets, while Warsaw Cargo benefits from enhanced payload efficiency and lower operating costs. The move reinforces the shift towards right-sized, fuel-efficient cargo aircraft to meet regional demand.

 

Iberia launches new dynamic boarding passes that update gate number

Iberia has introduced dynamic boarding passes designed to enhance the passenger experience by automatically updating with real-time operational changes. Unlike traditional static passes, these new digital passes notify travellers of updates such as changes in boarding gates, seat numbers, or cabin upgrades. This move aims to streamline the boarding process and reduce stress for passengers navigating busy terminals.

 

Acumen’s Take

Iberia’s shift to dynamic boarding passes reflects a broader industry trend towards digital transformation and customer-centric travel. By automating real-time updates, airlines not only improve operational efficiency but also significantly enhance passenger convenience—an increasingly vital differentiator in competitive markets.

 

Lars Wagner Appointed Incoming CEO of Airbus Commercial Aircraft

Airbus has announced that Lars Wagner, currently CEO of MTU Aero Engines AG, will take over as CEO of Airbus’ Commercial Aircraft division from 1 January 2026. Wagner will join the Airbus Executive Committee in November 2025 to ensure a seamless transition with outgoing CEO Christian Scherer, who will retire after more than four decades of leadership within Airbus.

 

Acumen’s Take

This leadership change signals Airbus’s commitment to continuity and technical depth at the top of its commercial operations. Wagner’s propulsion expertise is a strategic asset as Airbus accelerates its ambitions in sustainable aviation and next-gen aircraft development. For suppliers, operators, and lessors, his appointment could usher in a more integrated, innovation-led approach to programme execution and industrial partnerships.

 

My Freighter Targets Fleet Expansion to 50 Aircraft by 2026

Uzbekistan-based My Freighter has announced plans to significantly scale up its fleet to between 30 and 50 aircraft by the end of 2026. Currently operating a fleet of 20 across both cargo and passenger services, the airline is aiming to field 20 dedicated freighters alone within that timeline. Details regarding aircraft types or leasing arrangements remain undisclosed.

 

Acumen’s Take

This aggressive fleet expansion underscores the growing demand for cargo capacity in Central Asia, driven by e-commerce, regional trade corridors, and multimodal logistics growth. For lessors and MROs, My Freighter’s ambitions signal upcoming opportunities in freighter conversions, ACMI partnerships, and route support across emerging markets. The move also positions Uzbekistan as a potential transit hub within the broader Eurasian air freight network.

 

NASA’s X-59 Quiet Supersonic Aircraft Begins Taxi Tests

NASA’s X-59, a pioneering quiet supersonic research aircraft developed in partnership with Lockheed Martin, has successfully conducted its first low-speed taxi test at U.S. Air Force Plant 42 in Palmdale, California. Completed on 10 July 2025, this milestone marks the first time the X-59 moved under its own power, with NASA test pilot Nils Larson at the controls.

 

Acumen’s Take

The X-59’s progression into ground testing is a significant leap forward for the future of supersonic commercial flight. If successful, the programme could redefine long-haul aviation by enabling overland supersonic travel with reduced sonic boom impact. For OEMs, regulators, and airline planners, this project represents both a technological proving ground and a potential disruptor in high-speed air mobility.
 

 

Irish Aviation News

Emirates Adds Third Daily Flight to Dublin

Emirates has announced it will introduce a third daily service to Dublin starting 26 October 2025, significantly expanding its footprint in the Irish market. This move will offer passengers more flexible travel options to Dubai and onward destinations, while also enhancing cargo capacity between Ireland and the UAE—strengthening economic and trade links across the two regions.

 

Acumen’s Take

The addition of a third daily flight reflects strong bilateral demand and reinforces Dublin’s growing role as a strategic European hub in Emirates’ network. For Irish aviation stakeholders, the increased frequency not only improves global connectivity for passengers and businesses but also signals long-term confidence in Ireland’s aviation infrastructure and outbound travel potential.

 

Dublin Airport Granted Approval to Increase Night-Time Flight Frequency to 95

Dublin Airport has secured planning permission to increase the number of night-time flights to 95 between 11pm and 7am. The approval includes extended operational hours for the North Runway—until midnight and from 6am—under a noise quota system. A broader cap of 35,672 night-time flights has also been imposed to balance operational growth with community impact.

 

Acumen’s Take

This decision reflects a strategic compromise between capacity expansion and environmental accountability. While the move enhances slot flexibility for airlines and bolsters Dublin’s competitiveness as a hub, the imposed flight cap and noise quotas underline growing regulatory pressure on sustainable growth. For airport operators and carriers, proactive community engagement and noise mitigation will remain key to future scalability.

 

Northern Ireland: A Strategic Aviation Growth Opportunity

A recent roundtable hosted by KPMG in Belfast highlighted the untapped potential of Northern Ireland’s aviation sector. Industry leaders emphasised that a unified, all-island strategy could unlock substantial investment, create thousands of high-value jobs, and catalyse economic growth. The discussion underscored the need for cohesive policy-making, infrastructure development, and talent pipelines to realise this opportunity.

 

Acumen’s Take

Northern Ireland’s aviation ambitions align with broader trends toward regional economic empowerment through air transport. For lessors, MROs, and OEMs, the region presents a compelling case for expansion—particularly if supported by harmonised policy frameworks and cross-border collaboration. Seizing this momentum could position Northern Ireland as a future-ready aerospace hub within the wider European ecosystem.

 

Riyadh Air Eyes Dublin Route in 2026 as Part of European Rollout

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier set to launch in late 2025, has revealed plans to add Dublin to its European network by 2026. The airline, led by former Etihad CEO Tony Douglas, aims to expand rapidly—adding two new European capital routes each month. The rollout strategy reflects a broader ambition to link Saudi Arabia’s economic hubs with key global cities.

 

Acumen’s Take

A direct Dublin–Riyadh service would mark a strategic milestone in deepening Irish-Gulf aviation ties. For Ireland, this opens doors to increased business, tourism, and cargo flows with the Middle East. For lessors and asset managers, Riyadh Air’s aggressive growth signals long-term aircraft placement opportunities, especially as the carrier ramps up widebody utilisation for intercontinental expansion.

 

Ryanair Urges Irish Government to Scrap Traffic Caps at Dublin Airport

Ryanair has publicly called on the Irish Government to abolish both the existing and newly imposed caps on passenger traffic at Dublin Airport. The appeal follows a recent decision by An Coimisiún Pleanála to formalise a new cap as part of the airport’s expansion planning framework. Ryanair argues that these restrictions will stifle growth, undermine tourism, and deter inward investment during a critical recovery phase for the aviation sector.

 

Acumen’s Take

This move highlights ongoing tensions between environmental policy, community impact, and aviation-led economic development. While traffic caps may align with sustainability goals, they risk constraining capacity at Ireland’s primary gateway. For airlines, lessors, and infrastructure investors, predictable and scalable airport operations are essential—making regulatory clarity and policy alignment a priority in safeguarding long-term growth trajectories.

 

Shannon Airliner Update Highlights Maintenance and Storage Activity

The latest Shannon Airliner Update provides a comprehensive overview of aircraft movements, maintenance visits, and stored assets at Shannon Airport. The airfield continues to see steady throughput, with a mix of ferry flights, technical stopovers, and longer-term aircraft parking. The report also highlights Shannon’s role as a preferred MRO and transition hub within Ireland’s aviation ecosystem.

 

Acumen’s Take

Shannon’s ongoing activity underscores its importance as a strategic maintenance and storage location for lessors and operators alike. With growing demand for aircraft transitions, MRO slots, and temporary parking solutions, the airport’s capacity and technical expertise offer tangible advantages. For asset managers, this reaffirms Shannon’s value as a key node in lifecycle planning and aircraft remarketing strategies.

 

Transport Minister Reaffirms Support for Shannon Amid Dublin Growth Surge

Ireland’s Transport Minister has assured stakeholders that Dublin Airport’s expansion will not come at the expense of Shannon Airport. The statement follows Dublin’s record-breaking June performance, with 3.5 million passengers processed—the highest ever for that month. The government emphasised a commitment to balanced regional development and equitable investment in national aviation infrastructure.

 

Acumen’s Take

This reaffirmation is critical for safeguarding Shannon’s strategic relevance within Ireland’s air transport network. As Dublin continues to operate at near-capacity, pressure is mounting to ensure that growth is not overly centralised. For lessors, MROs, and route planners, Shannon presents viable opportunities—particularly if supported by clear policy backing and regional traffic incentives.

 

Ulick McEvaddy Seeks Approval for Major Freight and Logistics Hub Near Dublin Airport

Ulick McEvaddy, along with a consortium of landowners, has submitted a planning application to develop a large-scale aviation-focused freight and logistics hub adjacent to Dublin Airport. The proposed facility aims to boost cargo capacity, streamline supply chains, and support Ireland’s growing e-commerce and freight forwarding sectors.

 

Acumen’s Take

This development could be a transformative addition to Ireland’s air cargo infrastructure. Positioned strategically next to Dublin Airport, the hub would enhance logistical efficiency and attract investment into high-value supply chain operations. For lessors, freight operators, and logistics firms, it signals growing confidence in Dublin’s long-term role as a dual passenger-cargo gateway.

 

Tweet Picks

@IATA Air transport is a powerful engine to social economic growth in North Asia. In China,  generated $253.6bn or 1.4% to GDP & supported 10,2 million jobs. In Hong Kong  the impact was more pronounced, generating $37.7bn or 9.9% to GDP.
@IshrionA Southwest Airlines is finally adding its first new destinations in over 4 years. The airline announces it will begin flying to St. Thomas (STT) starting in early 2026. Southwest also says it plans to announce two more new destinations later this summer that will launch in 2026.
@sandeeprrao1991 IndiGo Airlnes and BLR Airport sign and MoU to build a second MRO at at the airport in 31 acres of Land. The MoU also broadens to include network expansion among other factors for developing BLR as a Hub #Avgeek #India #6E #WB #XLRs #A350 #B787.
@skift Indonesia now allows travelers from Brazil and Turkey to visit without a visa for up to 30 days. This is part of a wider strategy to attract more international tourists, especially from non-traditional markets, as it works to rebuild its tourism sector.
 

Video Picks

Cockpit cameras would significantly help in aviation investigations: IATA DG Willie Walsh

In a recent interview, IATA Director General Willie Walsh voiced strong support for the introduction of cockpit cameras, stating they would significantly aid aviation accident investigations. He noted that visual recordings could provide critical insights into flight crew actions and cockpit dynamics that are not captured by traditional flight and voice data recorders.

 

Acumen’s Take

The call for cockpit cameras reflects a broader push for enhanced safety tools in aviation. While implementation would require addressing privacy and regulatory hurdles, the potential benefits for post-incident analysis and operational transparency are substantial. For OEMs, regulators, and safety bodies, this represents an important step toward a more resilient safety ecosystem.

 

Emirates SkyCargo Expands Courier Express to Australia

Emirates SkyCargo has announced the expansion of its Courier Express service to Australia, targeting time-sensitive shipments such as medical supplies, electronics, and high-value documents. The move reflects growing demand for premium, fast-track cargo solutions across Asia-Pacific trade lanes and strengthens Emirates’ presence in the express logistics segment.

 

Acumen’s Take

The expansion underscores the evolving dynamics of global air freight, where speed and reliability are paramount. For asset managers and logistics partners, such developments signal rising demand for widebody utilisation and dedicated cargo capacity on long-haul routes. It also reinforces Australia’s role as a key node in time-critical supply chain networks.

 

 

Etihad Adding Seven New Routes to Its Network

Etihad Airways has unveiled plans to launch seven new routes, further expanding its global footprint. The additions reflect the airline’s strategic focus on high-demand leisure and business destinations, enhancing connectivity through Abu Dhabi and supporting its network growth objectives in key international markets.

 

Acumen’s Take

This expansion signals Etihad’s continued recovery momentum and network diversification strategy. For lessors and route planners, it presents renewed widebody placement opportunities and increased demand for fleet flexibility. The move also boosts Abu Dhabi’s positioning as a competitive global hub in a region seeing intensified airline rivalry.

 

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