23 Sep 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 23rd September 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
ASL Aviation Registers Airbus A330-300P2F
ASL Aviation Holdings has officially registered an Airbus A330-302(P2F), MSN 1272, at Dublin Airport under Guernsey registration 2-JDVM. The widebody freighter, painted in full Saudia Cargo livery, was previously registered in the U.S. as N810CM. After a period of temporary storage and repainting at Shannon between 7–28 July, the aircraft was ferried to Dublin on 28 July under callsign OMD211, piloted by Captain Bob. Operated by Nomadic Aviation Group on behalf of Cargo Aircraft Management (CAM), the move highlights ASL’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its widebody freighter fleet and global cargo operations.
Emerald Airlines Transfers ATR72-600 to Emerald Airlines UK
Emerald Airlines Ireland has transferred ATR72-212A(600), MSN 1339, formerly registered as EI-FSL and named “St Elvis / Ailbhe,” to its UK sister company under the new registration G-CMFL. The aircraft’s last commercial service as EI-FSL operated on 31 August between Dublin and Manchester (EIN3328/9). On 6 September, it repositioned from Dublin to Belfast City as EAG71P before entering service the following day on the Manchester route as EIN3610/1. The move strengthens Emerald Airlines UK’s fleet presence at Belfast City while maintaining continuity on key regional routes.
IAG Exercises A320neo Option for Aer Lingus
Aer Lingus will add a ninth Airbus A320neo to its fleet after parent company International Airlines Group (IAG) exercised a purchase option with Airbus. The order, confirmed in Airbus’s August market update, supports IAG’s wider fleet modernisation strategy of replacing older A320ceo aircraft with more fuel-efficient A320neo family models.
Aircraft Update
TC-GOU Airbus A330-343(F) c/n 343 ULS Airlines Cargo Delivered to Istanbul 11/08/25 ex N803CM
ULS Airlines Cargo took delivery of an Airbus A330-343F, registered TC-GOU (MSN 343), on 11 August 2025. The aircraft, formerly N803CM, was delivered to Istanbul, further enhancing the Turkish carrier’s widebody freighter capabilities. This addition strengthens ULS’s position in regional and international cargo markets, providing greater efficiency and flexibility to meet rising demand across its network.
TC-SRF Boeing 737-81M c/n 44421 SunExpress Delivered to Istanbul 12/09/25 ex A4O-BQ
SunExpress has expanded its fleet with the delivery of a Boeing 737-81M, registered TC-SRF (MSN 44421), on 12 September 2025. The aircraft, previously operating as A4O-BQ, was delivered to Istanbul, reinforcing the airline’s core fleet of next-generation narrowbodies. This latest addition supports SunExpress’s strategy of boosting capacity and maintaining operational efficiency across its European and Middle Eastern networks.
Global Aviation News
Eurowings to expand Boeing 737-8 MAX fleet by 60 additional aircraft
Eurowings has outlined plans to potentially boost its Boeing 737-8 MAX fleet by exercising options for 60 additional units, complementing 40 firm orders placed earlier this year. The €4.6 billion investment, finalised in January 2025, is aimed at replacing 28 Airbus A319s and ageing A320s, with deliveries set to commence in 2027. Each 737-8 MAX will seat 189 passengers and deliver around 30% reductions in fuel burn and CO₂ emissions, supporting the carrier’s compliance with EU environmental mandates while enhancing efficiency across its network.
Korean considers 747-400F replacements with 777-8F order
Korean Air has signed an agreement with Boeing for eight 777-8F freighters, signalling the start of its long-anticipated widebody cargo fleet renewal. The order highlights both replacement and growth plans, with the new aircraft expected to gradually phase out ageing 747-400Fs. Korean Air stated the investment will align with demand dynamics in the global cargo market, ensuring continued competitiveness through greater fuel efficiency, payload capability, and reduced operating costs.
LOT Polish Airlines introduces new menu with Michelin chef Bartosz Szymczak
LOT Polish Airlines has elevated its inflight dining by partnering with Michelin chef Bartosz Szymczak of Rozbrat 20 to design a refreshed menu for business class passengers. The offering features four new main courses, including salmon croquette and beef bourguignon, available on long-haul services until 31 January 2026. To ensure choice, passengers can pre-order their preferred dish through the LOT Book & Collect service up to 24 hours before departure, reflecting the carrier’s focus on enhancing premium travel experiences.
MRO Japan Co., Ltd and Airborne Capital Limited Announce Strategic Partnership
MRO Japan and Airborne Capital have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly develop comprehensive end-of-lease transition and MRO services across Japan and Asia. The collaboration combines MRO Japan’s expertise in aerospace maintenance with Airborne Capital’s leasing and asset management capabilities, aiming to streamline aircraft redeliveries and provide tailored solutions for operators and lessors. This strategic move is expected to strengthen both companies’ regional presence while enhancing efficiency in end-of-lease processes.
Pittsburgh International Airport new €1bn Terminal to open on 3 October
Pittsburgh International Airport will unveil its €1.03 billion Terminal Modernisation Project on 3 October 2025 with a gala celebration featuring Jeff Goldblum and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Ahead of the official opening, a public trial on 20 September will test systems and passenger flows across the new facility. The project marks a major milestone in the airport’s transformation, designed to improve efficiency, passenger experience, and long-term regional connectivity.
SkyWest Signs Strategic Investment Agreement with Maeve Aerospace
SkyWest has entered into a strategic equity investment agreement with Maeve Aerospace, securing exclusive launch customer rights for the manufacturer’s upcoming regional aircraft. The deal underscores SkyWest’s commitment to supporting innovative, fuel-efficient solutions in the regional aviation sector. By partnering with Maeve, SkyWest aims to strengthen its long-term fleet strategy while advancing sustainable and economic connectivity options for regional markets.
Southwest explores long-haul strategy and considers Boeing B737 strategy
Southwest Airlines is evaluating a potential long-haul strategy that could see the introduction of a second aircraft type, signalling a shift from its historic reliance on an all-Boeing 737 fleet. The review highlights Southwest’s intent to diversify capacity and expand beyond its traditional short-to-medium haul focus.
United Celebrates Turnaround at Newark Liberty International and Charts Bright Future
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby marked a milestone at Newark Liberty International Airport, highlighting the carrier’s best operational summer on record. Newark flights achieved higher on-time performance than those from JFK or LaGuardia, underscoring a significant turnaround at the hub. The achievement positions Newark alongside New York’s other major airports while reinforcing United’s commitment to investing in its premier East Coast base and charting a stronger future for the airline.
Irish Aviation News
Dáil Éireann debate Dublin Airport - Wednesday, 17 Sep 2025
The Irish parliament debated the long-standing 2007 planning condition that capped Dublin Airport’s capacity at 32 million passengers annually, a threshold now surpassed amid rising demand. Lawmakers from both government and opposition reiterated campaign pledges to lift the cap, emphasising its strain on Ireland’s primary international gateway. The debate underscored the urgency of legislative action to address immediate congestion while ensuring future growth, with connectivity highlighted as vital to Ireland’s status as an island nation.
IAA Draft decision on Dublin Airport Summer 2026 slot capacity published
The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) has released its draft decision outlining coordination parameters for Dublin Airport’s Summer 2026 scheduling season. Covering the period from 29 March to 24 October 2026, the draft sets limits on the number of aircraft movements permitted at specific times, forming the basis for slot allocation. The move is aimed at balancing operational efficiency, safety, and community impact while providing clarity to airlines planning their schedules well in advance.
Istanbul Overtakes Dublin as Top City Break Flight Destination from London Stansted
Istanbul has overtaken Dublin as the busiest city break route from London Stansted in August, ending Dublin’s run at the top of the list. Alongside Istanbul and Dublin, Edinburgh and Palma de Mallorca continue to rank among Stansted’s most popular short-break destinations. The shift highlights changing travel preferences, with Istanbul’s growing appeal as a cultural and leisure hub now drawing more passengers than Dublin on this key UK–Europe market.
Ryanair will base 16 aircraft and operate nine new routes from Alicante-Elche during the 2025-2026 winter season
From 26 October 2025 to 29 March 2026, Ryanair will strengthen its operations at Alicante-Elche Airport by basing 16 aircraft and launching nine new winter routes. Compared to last year, the airline is adding eight additional year-round services, extending several summer-only routes into the winter schedule. These include UK links from Aberdeen and Cardiff, Polish connections to Bydgoszcz and Rzeszów, Swedish services from Stockholm-Västerås and Växjö, Spanish flights to Lanzarote, and Austrian routes from Linz and Salzburg. The expansion further consolidates Ryanair’s position as Alicante-Elche’s largest carrier by passenger numbers.
Tourism Ireland SOAR (Situation & Outlook Analysis Report) September 2025
Tourism Ireland has published its September 2025 Situation & Outlook Analysis Report (SOAR), providing a detailed assessment of international travel trends and their impact on inbound tourism.
TrueNoord delivers two ATR72-600s to TACV Cabo Verde Airlines
TrueNoord has delivered two ATR72-600 aircraft to TACV Cabo Verde Airlines on long-term operating leases, marking the carrier’s first introduction of the type. Based at Praia International Airport on Santiago Island, the turboprops (MSNs 1512 and 1514) will enhance vital intra-island connectivity across the Cape Verde archipelago. The deal also establishes TACV as a new lessee customer for TrueNoord, reinforcing the lessor’s role in supporting regional growth and sustainable transport solutions.
Two new partners at PwC’s Ireland’s Aviation Finance practice
PwC Ireland has strengthened its Aviation Finance practice with the appointment of Fiona Regan and John Neary as tax partners. Regan, appointed in July 2025, advises a wide client base on international tax matters with a focus on aircraft and engine lessors. Neary rejoins PwC from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE), where he served as Head of Tax, bringing significant expertise in corporate taxation within the aviation leasing and finance sector. Their appointments reflect PwC’s commitment to bolstering its leadership in Ireland’s aviation finance industry.
Visit Saudi Wows Irish Travel Trade at Dublin’s Anantara The Marker Hotel
Visit Saudi hosted an engaging showcase for the Irish travel trade at Dublin’s Anantara The Marker Hotel, highlighting the diverse tourism opportunities across Saudi Arabia. The event brought together Robert Schumann, Country Manager for Visit Saudi, alongside trade leaders Simon Clifford, Amelia Wolsey, and Sanya Kakkar, with strong representation from airlines, DMCs, and hotel partners. The evening underscored Saudi Arabia’s ambition to strengthen ties with Irish travel stakeholders and position itself as a compelling destination for future outbound tourism.
Tweet Picks
@theaircurrent Avelo turns to Embraer to build first U.S. E2 fleet.
@USChamber From Jason Birnbaum, Chief Information Officer, @United Airlines Holdings, Inc. at #GlobalAerospaceSummit: "AI will enable our employees to scale up and provide better responses faster to get you on your journey as quickly as possible...We believe we can make the customer experience better through this technology.
@VerticalAero After 250 miles of flight, collecting over 22 billion data points, we have completed Phase 3 – wingborne flight testing. This stage has seen Vertical fly piloted sorties at speeds of up to 120 knots (222km/h) & altitudes of 2,000ft outside the boundaries of the flight test centre, as well as completing Europe’s first ever piloted wingborne flight of a winged eVTOL.
@VerticalAero We will now move to the final test stage: transition, which demonstrates the VX4’s ability to shift seamlessly between vertical lift and wingborne flight - the defining capability of a tiltrotor eVTOL aircraft. This progress reflects continued regulator confidence as Vertical advances toward type certification in 2028.
Video Picks
APEX Global EXPO 2025 - Main Stage Fireside Finale with United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby
In this closing session of the APEX Global EXPO 2025, United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby shares his perspectives on the future of air travel and airline strategy. The discussion highlights United’s focus on operational excellence, sustainability, and customer experience, while also touching on broader industry challenges and opportunities. Kirby’s remarks provide insight into how one of the world’s largest carriers is preparing for growth in an evolving global aviation landscape.
Eoghan Corry & Simon Calder: Should Alcohol Be Banned on Flights
Travel experts Eoghan Corry and Simon Calder debate whether alcohol should be banned on flights, exploring the balance between passenger enjoyment and onboard safety. The discussion examines incidents linked to alcohol consumption, the policies of different airlines, and the broader implications for passenger behaviour and inflight service. Their exchange provides valuable perspectives on a controversial topic that continues to spark debate across the aviation industry.
New Nonstop flight from RDU to Dublin, Ireland
This report highlights the launch of a new nonstop service from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) to Dublin, Ireland, further enhancing transatlantic connectivity. The route forms part of Aer Lingus’s expanded summer 2026 schedule, offering passengers in North Carolina direct access to Ireland and beyond. The video also explores RDU’s broader growth strategy, including infrastructure upgrades aimed at supporting rising international demand.
Acumen’s Take
This edition of the Daily Aviation Brief underscores the dynamic interplay of fleet modernisation, regulatory evolution, and market expansion shaping global and Irish aviation. Airlines are actively investing in efficiency and resilience, while airports and regulators focus on capacity, connectivity, and long-term sustainability. For lessors, operators, and investors, the message is clear: opportunities are growing, but success will hinge on agility, data-driven decision-making, and the ability to balance operational demands with shifting geopolitical and environmental priorities. The sector’s trajectory remains upward, though the path forward will require careful navigation of both risks and opportunities.
