25 Nov 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 25th November 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 Airlines Ireland Transfers Boeing 737 Classic
ASL Airlines Ireland has transferred one of its remaining Boeing 737 Classic freighters to ASL Airlines France, reflecting the group’s steady push toward a more modernised fleet. The aircraft, a Boeing 737-43Q(SF) (MSN 28494), previously operating as EI-STV, has now been re-registered as F-GZTR. The transfer was finalised in Brussels on 27 October, marking another step in ASL Aviation Holdings’ strategy to streamline operations and retire ageing Classic-series freighters across its European network.
Icelandair Upgauges Dublin–Keflavik Capacity
Icelandair has boosted capacity on its Dublin–Keflavik service by deploying Boeing 767-300ERs on select October and November rotations, lifting available seats by around 47% compared with its usual narrowbody operations. The airline operated the widebodies on multiple dates across both months, responding to sustained passenger demand on the route. Three 262-seat, two-class 767-300ERs TF-ISN, TF-ISO, and TF-ISW substituted for Icelandair’s A321LR and 737 MAX 8/9 fleet, marking a notable temporary upgauge for the transatlantic-connecting sector.
Pegasus Airlines Expands Winter Connectivity
Pegasus Airlines is strengthening its European offering for the Winter 2025/26 season with a daily nonstop service between Dublin and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen (SAW). The route has maintained solid demand since launch and will continue to be operated by the carrier’s modern A320neo and A321neo fleet. These aircraft, seating 186 and 239 passengers respectively, form the backbone of Pegasus’s efficiency strategy, delivering over 20% lower fuel burn and emissions alongside a significantly reduced noise footprint. The winter schedule underscores Pegasus’s commitment to reliable, high-density connectivity between Ireland and Türkiye.
Aircraft Update
F-GZTR Boeing 737-43Q(F) Transferred to ASL Airlines France
A Boeing 737-43Q(F), registered F-GZTR (c/n 28494), has been officially transferred to ASL Airlines France following its repositioning at Brussels Airport on 27 October 2025. The freighter, previously operating as EI-STV, is one of the remaining Classic-series aircraft transitioning within the ASL Aviation Holdings group. The move forms part of the company’s broader fleet-refresh effort as it continues to streamline operations and phase out older freighter types across its European network.
OE-IEB Airbus A320 Ferried to Ostrava
An Airbus A320-214, registered OE-IEB (c/n 7816) and managed by Orix Aviation, was ferried to Ostrava on 19 November 2025. The aircraft, formerly operating as JA13VA, has been repositioned for maintenance, storage, or potential transition work at the Czech facility, which continues to serve as a major European centre for heavy checks and refurbishment. The movement reflects ongoing fleet cycling and remarketing activity as operators and lessors prepare assets for their next deployment.
Global Aviation News
British Airways Warns Heathrow Over Rising Costs and Third Runway Plans
British Airways has warned that it may redirect future investment to European hubs if Heathrow’s expansion costs drive landing fees to uncompetitive levels. CEO Sean Doyle said IAG could instead prioritise growth at group airlines such as Iberia and Aer Lingus if Heathrow becomes too expensive following the development of a third runway. With the UK government weighing two expansion proposals, BA’s message is clear: unless Heathrow keeps costs in check, it risks losing long-term investment and traffic to rival airports across Europe.
flydubai Signs MoU for 75 Boeing 737 MAX Aircraft
Flydubai has signed a major Memorandum of Understanding with Boeing for 75 new 737 MAX aircraft, along with options for an additional 75. Announced at the Dubai Airshow, the deal marks the airline’s fourth 737 MAX purchase and reinforces the type’s role as the backbone of its expanding fleet. The order supports flydubai’s strategy to modernise operations, boost fuel efficiency, and continue growing its regional and international network over the coming years.
Heathrow CEO Warns New Taxes in England Could Shrink Aviation, Says IATA
Heathrow’s CEO has raised concerns that proposed new taxes in England risk undermining the airport’s long-term expansion plans, including future runway development. According to IATA, England already sits among the most expensive countries in Europe for air travel, and the number of partner airlines operating there has been declining over the past decade. The industry argues that additional taxes could further erode competitiveness, making it harder for airports like Heathrow to attract carriers and sustain growth.
IAG Loyalty and American Express Extend Long-Term Strategic Partnership
IAG Loyalty and American Express have renewed their multi-year partnership, reinforcing one of the UK’s most established travel reward collaborations. The extension covers the British Airways American Express Cards, which remain a cornerstone of the programme by offering Cardmembers enhanced travel benefits and exclusive earning opportunities. Next year marks 25 years since British Airways and American Express first launched their co-branded cards in the UK. The renewed agreement signals a shared commitment to strengthening customer value, ensuring that the partnership continues to deliver meaningful rewards and long-term loyalty advantages well into the future.
IndiaOne Air Signs LOI for Up to Ten De Havilland Twin Otter 300-G Aircraft
IndiaOne Air has signed a Letter of Intent at the 2025 Dubai Airshow to acquire up to ten Twin Otter Series 300-G aircraft, marking a notable step in the carrier’s growth strategy. The agreement strengthens IndiaOne Air’s plans to expand regional connectivity across underserved routes, where the Twin Otter’s short-takeoff-and-landing capability is especially valuable.For De Havilland Canada, the LOI reinforces its presence in India’s rapidly developing regional aviation market and highlights sustained demand for rugged, versatile turboprop aircraft suitable for challenging operational environments.
IAG Q3 2025 Earnings Call Highlights
IAG delivered a strong Q3, driven by steady travel demand, disciplined capacity, and tight cost control. Group operating margins stayed above 20 percent across all airlines, with Iberia and Aer Lingus posting notable profit gains. While unit revenue eased slightly versus last year’s record quarter, lower fuel costs and ongoing transformation initiatives helped keep performance solid.Bookings for Q4 are running ahead of last year, including on the North Atlantic, and early 2026 trends look positive. IAG also highlighted a healthier balance sheet, reduced leverage, and continued investment in fleet renewal, digital upgrades, and customer experience. The renewed long-term partnership with American Express further strengthens IAG Loyalty’s growth outlook.
RoyalJet Chooses CFM LEAP-1A Engines for Incoming ACJ320neo Fleet
RoyalJet, the Abu Dhabi-based VIP charter operator, has selected CFM LEAP-1A engines to power its upcoming fleet of ACJ320neo aircraft on order with Airbus. The choice aligns the premium carrier with one of the industry’s most advanced and fuel-efficient narrowbody engine platforms. The LEAP-1A, produced by CFM International, a GE Aerospace and Safran joint venture, offers double-digit improvements in fuel burn, emissions and reliability compared with previous-generation engines. The selection underscores RoyalJet’s focus on efficiency and performance as it modernises its fleet for long-range, high-end corporate and government travel.
Satair to Acquire Unical Aviation, Expanding Its USM Capabilities
Satair has agreed to acquire Unical Aviation and its subsidiary ecube, strengthening its position in the Used Serviceable Material market. The deal expands Satair’s access to aircraft parts, teardown capacity, and transition services, creating a more integrated aftermarket offering for airlines, lessors, and MROs. It also supports Airbus’ broader goal of growing its global aftermarket capabilities through a deeper, more efficient USM supply chain.
Turkish Airlines Selects Over 100 GE GEnx Engines for New 787 Fleet
Turkish Airlines has placed a major order for more than 100 GE GEnx engines to power its upcoming fleet of 50 Boeing 787s, with options for 25 additional aircraft. The deal includes spare engines and a 15-year TrueChoice services agreement.The move strengthens the carrier’s long-standing partnership with GE Aerospace and supports its wider long-haul expansion strategy. With a 504-aircraft fleet serving 355 destinations, the addition of GEnx-powered Dreamliners will enhance efficiency, cut emissions, and reinforce Turkish Airlines’ global growth plans.
Irish Aviation News
Aer Lingus eyes more long-haul winter sun routes
Aer Lingus is exploring opportunities to add more long-haul winter sun destinations as it works to deploy its expanding capacity during the quieter winter months. The airline sees potential in tapping demand for warm-weather getaways at a time traditionally challenging for northern hemisphere carriers. The move aligns with its broader strategy to strengthen off-peak profitability and diversify seasonal network performance.
Minister Peter Burke Promotes Ireland at World’s Largest Travel Fair
Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke joined Tourism Ireland at the World Travel Market (WTM) in London on 5 November, lending government support to one of the most important events in the global tourism calendar. WTM is the world’s largest B2B travel fair and marks the official start of Ireland’s international marketing push for 2026.Tourism Ireland is hosting a major presence at the event, accompanied by around 75 tourism businesses from across the island. Their collective goal is to showcase Ireland’s offering to international buyers, strengthen trade relationships, and drive demand ahead of the 2026 season.
SETU Sports Scholar Graduates in Aerospace Engineering
Naas native Róisín Sweeney has graduated from SETU with first-class honours in Aerospace Engineering, completing four years of study while competing as one of Ireland’s most successful young motorsport athletes. A SETU Sports Scholar, she balanced her academic work with major karting achievements including becoming the first female Motorsport Ireland T4 Senior National Karting champion and the first woman to win an individual Student Sport Ireland karting title.
Aer Lingus Keeps Tradition Alive with New Saint-Named A320
Aer Lingus has added another saint to its fleet, naming its newest Airbus A320 after Saint Deirbhile of Mayo continuing a tradition that dates back to 1947. The practice began as a way to give the airline a distinct Irish identity and has since been applied across multiple aircraft types, from early Vickers Vikings and Fokker F27s to today’s Airbus family.By carrying this heritage forward, the airline maintains a cultural link that has been part of its brand for more than seven decades.
Shannon Airport Hails Ryanair Expansion As Major Endorsement Of Clare Base
Shannon Airport has praised Ryanair’s decision to add new routes and grow its aircraft presence at the Clare base, calling it a significant endorsement of its long-term strategy. The airline will introduce four fresh destinations for Summer 2026: Madrid, Rome, Warsaw and Poznan with Poznan marking a first for the entire MidWest region. Shannon says the expansion reflects strong demand, deeper regional connectivity, and continued faith in the airport’s potential as a key Western gateway.
Sirius Aviation Capital Highlights Unusually Early A320neo/A321neo Retirements
Sirius Aviation Capital’s Q2 2025 update points to a surprising trend: 13 A320neo and A321neo aircraft from 2016–2019 have already been retired, far earlier than the typical 20–25-year lifespan.The shift is driven by economics rather than age with leased engines proving more valuable on their own than as part of a full aircraft lease. Sirius notes that strong engine demand is reshaping teardown strategy, asset values and fleet planning assumptions across the leasing sector.
IATA Welcomes EU’s STIP but Says Aviation Needs Faster, Deeper Decarbonisation
IATA has welcomed the EU’s Sustainable Transport Investment Plan (STIP) as a step toward addressing long-standing gaps in aviation decarbonisation, particularly around infrastructure and technology support.However, Director General Willie Walsh stressed that the plan still falls short of what’s needed. He called for clearer policies to scale up Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), better access to renewable energy, and regulatory frameworks that accelerate rather than slow the transition.
Ticket tax at the center of political debate: FPÖ demands its abolition – Ryanair increases pressure on the government
Austria's air passenger tax is becoming a central point of contention in national economic policy. The opposition party FPÖ has submitted a motion for the immediate abolition of the tax, which is being vehemently supported by the airline Ryanair. The low-cost carrier is once again threatening to further reduce its capacity and is linking a multi-billion euro investment plan to the abolition of the tax, which it sees as a major factor in Austria's lagging position in European air traffic.
Tweet Picks
@flightradar24 Wrocław Nicolaus Copernicus Airport in Poland closed last night and will remain closed until 4 December 2025. The reason is the implementation of the largest investment in the history of the airport, aimed at further improving passenger comfort and safety, as well as adapting the infrastructure to the growing air traffic.
@FATIIIAviation According to a stock exchange filing, Air China Cargo is placing a firm order of 6 A350F + 4 options, a first among Chinese Mainland carriers. Per the filing, those freighters would be delivered between 2029 and 2031.
@IATA Germany must urgently regain competitiveness so that jobs and prosperity can grow. But airlines in #Germany are held back by high location costs and passenger taxes.
@jumpjim It’s been interesting to watch the uptake in @Starlink in aviation over the last 4 years, from @boomsupersonic live streaming test flights, to free fast onboard WiFi. It’s also transforming information provision for flight crew. We now have access to IATA Turbulence Aware data in flight through WiFi showing real time automatically reported turbulence reports from multiple airlines. It’s only the beginning.. #avgeek #avgeeks #aviation.
Video Picks
Taking Delta into the Future as the Airline Celebrates 100 Years
This feature looks at how Delta Air Lines is positioning itself for its next century of operations while marking 100 years of continuous service. The video highlights Delta’s major investments in fleet modernisation, digital innovation, and customer experience from next-generation aircraft and upgraded cabins to advanced operational technology that enhances reliability and efficiency.It also reflects on the airline’s legacy, charting its evolution from a small crop-dusting operation in the 1920s to one of the world’s largest global carriers. With a focus on sustainability, infrastructure development, and forward-looking strategy, the video showcases how Delta aims to shape the future of air travel while honouring a century of progress.
That Great Business Show: Conall Ó Móráin in conversation with Paul Hackett, CEO of Click&Go
This interview offers an inside look at how Click&Go has built one of Ireland’s most recognisable travel brands under the leadership of CEO Paul Hackett. In conversation with Conall Ó Móráin on That Great Business Show, Hackett breaks down the realities of running a modern holiday company from shifting consumer behaviour and the impact of digital booking patterns to the challenges of pricing, seasonality and post-pandemic recovery.The discussion also touches on Click&Go’s growth strategy, its focus on customer trust, and how the company is adapting to a more competitive and agile travel marketplace. It’s an engaging, candid look at the business behind leisure travel and the decisions shaping Irish holidaymaking today.
The Role of Regional Airlines in Last-Mile Delivery for Rural America
This panel looks at how regional airlines are stepping into a bigger logistics role, helping deliver essential goods to rural communities that major freight networks often overlook. Speakers discuss the benefits of small-aircraft operations, from serving remote airports to enabling faster, more flexible last-mile connections.The conversation also touches on e-commerce demand, medical supply delivery, and the partnerships needed to strengthen rural supply chains. It’s a clear illustration of how regional carriers are becoming vital infrastructure in America’s evolving logistics ecosystem.
Acumen’s Take
Market signals this week point to an industry balancing strong demand with rising cost pressures and persistent capacity constraints. Airlines are leaning hard into fleet modernisation, with new-generation narrowbodies, widebodies, and engine platforms shaping long-term network strategies. Lessors remain active across transitions, teardowns, and USM expansion, reflecting a market where asset value and engine economics continue to drive decision-making. Regulatory and tax environments are playing a larger role in competitiveness, influencing where airlines invest and expand. Across all segments, the theme is clear: operational efficiency, strategic flexibility, and disciplined capital deployment are becoming the defining levers for navigating 2026 and beyond.
