24 Dec 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 24th 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
AP-BPL Airbus A320-214 delivered to Fly Jinnah
Fly Jinnah has taken delivery of an Airbus A320-214, registered AP-BPL (MSN 5668), which arrived in Karachi on 28 November 2025. The aircraft was previously registered as VQ-CAQ and joins the carrier’s growing narrowbody fleet, supporting Fly Jinnah’s continued network expansion and capacity deployment across its regional and international routes.
AP-BPM Airbus A320-214 delivered to Fly Jinnah
Fly Jinnah has taken delivery of an Airbus A320-214, registered AP-BPM (MSN 5691), which was delivered to Karachi on 3 December 2025. The aircraft, previously registered as VQ-CAR, adds further capacity to the airline’s Airbus narrowbody fleet and supports Fly Jinnah’s ongoing plans to strengthen its domestic and regional operations.
Global Aviation News
airBaltic CEO highlights need to improve financial performance
airBaltic’s new CEO Erno Hildén has said strengthening the airline’s financial results is a key priority as he takes charge of the Latvian carrier. While praising the airline’s strong operational base and A220 fleet strategy, he stressed the need to reduce reliance on state funding and improve investor appeal. The airline will continue its dual model of scheduled flying and aircraft leasing to manage seasonality. Hildén emphasised tighter cost control and disciplined execution as central to airBaltic’s path forward.
Air freight deserves fair airport slot access, says IATA cargo chief
The International Air Transport Association has called for fairer airport slot access for air freight, warning that cargo operations are increasingly sidelined despite their growing economic importance. Brendan Sullivan, IATA’s Global Head of Cargo, highlighted that air freight carries just 1% of global trade by volume but accounts for 35% of its total value, moving goods worth around $8 trillion annually. He argued that industries ranging from healthcare to semiconductors rely on timely cargo access, and slot allocation frameworks need to better reflect air freight’s critical role in global supply chains.
Air Albania grounds fleet after investor exit, denies bankruptcy
Air Albania has suspended all flight operations since 7 December following the decision by its main shareholder, Turkish Airlines, to sell its 49% stake in the airline. The sudden halt has disrupted travel plans and raised concerns amid wider industry pressures, but the carrier has stressed that it has not entered bankruptcy. The situation is linked to shareholder restructuring rather than a formal insolvency process, with the airline’s future dependent on the outcome of ownership discussions.
Air Premia expands U.S. network with Washington, D.C. route
Air Premia is expanding its transpacific footprint with nonstop service between Seoul and Washington, D.C., highlighting its hybrid airline model that blends long-haul comfort with competitive fares. The move targets strong government, business, and diplomatic travel demand while testing a new challenger approach in the Korea–U.S. aviation market.
Air Astana issues statement on BAE Systems stake disposal
Air Astana has acknowledged plans by BAE Systems to sell part of its shareholding in the airline group through an accelerated bookbuild process. BAE Systems has been a founding partner since Air Astana’s creation in 2001 and reduced its stake to 16.95% following the airline’s IPO in 2024. The carrier noted that Air Astana is no longer a core holding for BAE Systems and said it welcomes new shareholders, highlighting that the move will increase the group’s free float at a key stage in its development.
Air Transport Services Group appoints Greg Mays as President and CEO
Air Transport Services Group (ATSG) has announced the appointment of Greg Mays as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 January 2026. He succeeds Mike Berger, who will retire and remain in an advisory role during part of 2026 to support the leadership transition. Mays brings extensive industry experience, having previously held senior leadership roles at Sun Country Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, where he led major operational, maintenance, and cargo functions during periods of significant change and growth.
Amadeus highlights role of next-generation aircraft in shaping future travel
Amadeus has identified next-generation narrowbody and widebody aircraft as key drivers of changing travel patterns from 2026 onwards, as airlines unlock longer, more efficient routes. Aircraft such as the Airbus A321XLR and Airbus A350-1000ULR are expected to enable thinner long-haul services, expand point-to-point connectivity, and reshape network strategies. According to Amadeus, these capabilities will influence how travellers plan journeys, blending long-haul reach with greater flexibility and efficiency for airlines.
British Airways Holidays outlines travel trends shaping 2026
British Airways Holidays has highlighted wellness-led travel as a defining theme for 2026, with growing numbers of travellers prioritising flexibility, self-expression, and personal wellbeing. Nearly one in five UK holidaymakers are choosing to abandon fixed schedules altogether, while body-positive experiences are becoming increasingly mainstream. The company also pointed to a shift in loyalty expectations, with customers valuing experiences over upgrades, as engagement with loyalty programmes continues to rise year on year.
Rolls-Royce sees repeat business dominate at Dubai Airshow 2025
Repeat orders dominated Rolls-Royce’s showing at Dubai Airshow 2025, with agreements covering 176 Trent engines across airlines and lessors. Key commitments included widebody engine deals with Air Europa, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, and Etihad Airways, alongside AviLease joining Rolls-Royce’s new LessorCare+ service. The manufacturer also highlighted its £1 billion investment programme to improve Trent engine durability, with significant time-on-wing enhancements already being delivered and further gains planned through 2028.
Emirates ends 2025 with five more global awards
Emirates has closed out 2025 with five additional honours at the World Travel Awards, reinforcing its position as a leading global airline brand. The latest accolades recognise Emirates for overall brand leadership, inflight entertainment, First Class onboard experience and lounges, and its Skywards loyalty programme. The wins add to a strong year for the airline, taking its total global awards tally for 2025 to more than 20.
Irish Aviation News
AerFin acquires third Boeing 777-300ER in 2025
AerFin has acquired its third Boeing 777-300ER of 2025, further strengthening its widebody asset portfolio. The aircraft was previously operated by Japan Airlines and will be inducted into AerFin’s asset management and parts solutions platform. The acquisition reflects continued demand for high-value widebody components and underlines AerFin’s active strategy in the secondary market for long-haul aircraft.
Aer Lingus & Cork Airport host Cork travel trade event and unveil new routes
Aer Lingus and Cork Airport hosted a Christmas event for the Cork travel trade, using the occasion to confirm new services launching from Cork in 2026. The airline announced new routes to Nice on the French Riviera and Santiago de Compostela in north-western Spain, improving leisure and pilgrimage connectivity for the south of Ireland. In addition, Aer Lingus confirmed that its Cork–Prague service will move to year-round operation, further strengthening Cork Airport’s European network.
Aergo Capital acquires Boeing 737 MAX 8 on lease to WestJet
Dublin-based Aergo Capital has completed the acquisition of a Boeing 737-8 MAX (MSN 60513) from Aircastle, with the aircraft remaining on lease to WestJet. The transaction strengthens Aergo’s narrowbody portfolio while reinforcing its long-standing trading relationship with Aircastle. The deal highlights continued demand for in-service MAX aircraft backed by established airline operators.
ARI launches The Irish Market at Dublin Airport Terminal 2
ARI has opened The Irish Market in Terminal 2 departures at Dublin Airport, a new retail concept designed to showcase Irish food and drink with a strong sense of place. The store features 69 brands and 360 products from Irish artisans and producers, spanning food, confectionery and a curated spirits selection. The concept reflects ARI’s focus on presenting local provenance in a contemporary, airport-ready format, with further brand additions planned in the months ahead.
Austrian Airlines questions Ryanair’s political rhetoric over Austria’s air passenger tax
Austrian Airlines has taken aim at Ryanair’s public criticism of Austrian aviation policy, contrasting it with its own more measured approach to the country’s air passenger tax. While Ryanair and Wizz Air have announced aircraft withdrawals and capacity shifts away from Vienna, Austrian Airlines has avoided public confrontation, signalling a preference for operational responses over political messaging. The differing strategies underline how carriers are navigating rising costs and regulatory pressures in Central Europe.
British Airways returns 14 weekly slots to Aer Lingus at London Heathrow
British Airways has returned 14 weekly slot pairs to Aer Lingus at London Heathrow for the Summer 2026 season, formalised through a coordinated slot swap process. The move restores Aer Lingus arrival and departure timings on the busy Dublin–Heathrow corridor, reinforcing its short-haul connectivity at one of Europe’s most capacity-constrained airports while reflecting ongoing slot rebalancing within the IAG group.
IATA chief Willie Walsh condemns political airspace closures
International Air Transport Association Director General Willie Walsh has called the use of airspace closures for political or economic reasons “completely unacceptable,” urging governments to keep skies open where no safety or security risk exists. Responding to questions on reciprocal closures affecting carriers, Walsh warned that such actions disrupt global connectivity and increase costs, adding that IATA hopes to see restricted airspace reopened for airline operations.
EI-CVC: An Irish Aviationtag story
Former Aer Lingus Airbus A320 EI-CVC, a long-time fixture at Dublin in shamrock colours, has been given a second life through Aviationtag. After more than two decades of everyday service, the aircraft’s journey from factory rollout to retirement is now captured through upcycled Aviationtag pieces made from its original skin, preserving a small but meaningful part of Irish aviation history while placing EI-CVC within the wider evolution of the Aer Lingus fleet.
IAA publishes 2026 determination conclusions for Dublin Airport
The Irish Aviation Authority has released its 2026 determination conclusions for Dublin Airport, setting out the regulatory framework that will guide airport charges and operational parameters for the year ahead. The decision outlines how costs, service standards, and investment expectations will be balanced in 2026, providing airlines and stakeholders with greater clarity as traffic levels remain elevated and capacity planning becomes more critical.
Ryanair partners with i6 Group to digitise fuel operations across Europe
Ryanair has selected i6 Group to digitise refuelling across its European network, covering operations in 37 countries. The move replaces paper-based processes with i6’s real-time fuel management platform, connecting flight crews, fueling teams, and operations control through live data and automated workflows. The partnership is aimed at improving turnaround efficiency, protecting on-time performance, and strengthening operational visibility, while also supporting Ryanair’s Pathway to Net Zero strategy by improving fuel accuracy and reducing carbon intensity per passenger.
Tweet Picks
@BloombergTV .@JetBlue will launch its first airport lounge this month, part of the carrier’s push to court high-paying travelers and narrow the gap with larger rivals.
@Boeing Today, we welcome Spirit AeroSystems back to the Boeing family. This acquisition marks a significant step in our commitment to aviation safety and quality. We look forward to strengthening our production and supply chain stability together.
@businessposthq Regional carrier Emerald Airlines made an operating profit of €9.6 million in 2024, as revenues soared off the back of an 8.8 per cent increase in the airline’s capacity.
@ByERussell ITA Airways is making good on CEO Joerg Eberhart's promise of US expansion. The Italian airline's next US dot will be partner United's Houston Bush (IAH) hub from May 1.
@CAPA_Aviation Interesting discussion with @RollsRoyce SVP Leasing & Marketing Luke Mallows on transformation in action: "We have to bring the Trent 1000 back to a point of competitiveness. It’s been a tough, tough journey and we’ve taken the industry on a learning journey with us" #CAPASummit.
Video Picks
Former Shannon Air Traffic Controller Shares His Aviation Journey on Morning Focus
In this engaging interview, a former Shannon-based air traffic controller reflects on his career in aviation, offering rare insight into life inside one of Ireland’s most important control centres. He discusses the pressures of managing transatlantic traffic, how technology and procedures have evolved over the years, and the human side of a role that demands constant focus and precision. The conversation also touches on Shannon’s unique place in global aviation and the experiences that shaped his professional journey.
Saudi Arabia’s Air Connectivity Program Accelerates Global Route Expansion to Meet Vision 2030
This video explores how Saudi Arabia’s Air Connectivity Program is rapidly expanding the Kingdom’s global air links as a core pillar of Vision 2030. It outlines how targeted route development, airline incentives, and coordinated government support are positioning Saudi Arabia as a major international aviation hub. The discussion highlights new long-haul connections, growing tourism and business travel demand, and the broader ambition to integrate aviation growth with economic diversification and global trade.
Saudi LCC Flyadeal Plans India Entry, Codeshare Talks
This video looks at flyadeal’s plans to enter the Indian market as part of Saudi Arabia’s broader aviation expansion strategy. It discusses the low-cost carrier’s interest in launching direct services between Saudi Arabia and key Indian cities, alongside ongoing talks around potential codeshare partnerships. The segment also examines what flyadeal’s entry could mean for capacity, pricing, and competition on one of the fastest-growing international markets linked to the Kingdom.
Acumen’s Take
This edition highlights an industry operating in parallel modes: near-term execution and long-term repositioning. Fleet moves, slot reallocations, and asset transactions show how airlines and lessors are staying disciplined while demand remains uneven across regions. At the same time, digitisation, sustainability targets, and next-generation aircraft point to structural change that will define the second half of the decade. Regulatory clarity and infrastructure decisions are becoming just as critical as commercial strategy. The common thread is preparedness. Those aligning assets, data, and partnerships early will be best placed to manage volatility and capture growth as 2026 approaches.
