27 Aug 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 27th August 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
Aer Lingus Takes Delivery of Eighth Airbus A320neo
Aer Lingus has welcomed its eighth Airbus A320neo, registered EI-NSH and named McCuilinn, as part of its ongoing fleet renewal programme. The A320-251N (MSN 12663) arrived in Dublin from Toulouse on 31 July and entered service on 7 August, operating the Dublin–Faro route. Configured with 186 seats, the aircraft will primarily serve short-haul routes such as London Heathrow and other major European destinations, supporting Aer Lingus’s commitment to fuel efficiency and lower emissions.
ASL Aviation Leases A330 Freighters to Saudia Cargo
ASL Aviation Holdings has leased two Airbus A330-300P2F freighters to Saudia Cargo, expanding the Saudi carrier’s long-haul cargo capacity. The first aircraft, MSN 1272, has already joined the fleet under a wet lease agreement, with the partnership aimed at boosting global freight connectivity. The deal underscores both companies’ strategic focus on strengthening air cargo capabilities amid sustained demand in international logistics.
Belfast based 247 Aviation Announces Major Strategic Expansion
Belfast-based 247 Aviation has announced a major strategic expansion backed by a £7.98 million investment from parent company SERE Holdings. The funding will support the acquisition of two additional Learjet 45 aircraft and the opening of a new satellite base in southern England. This growth will significantly enhance the company’s capacity to provide rapid-response, consultant-led medical transport services across the UK and Ireland.
EI-FPV CRJ900 Cityjet Departs Fleet
CityJet has completed the transfer of its Mitsubishi CRJ-900LR, registered EI-FPN (MSN 15440) and named Trud Viking, marking the aircraft’s departure from the fleet. On 12–13 August 2025, it was ferried from Valencia to Dayton International Airport, routing via Keflavik, Goose Bay, and Toronto. The jet will join PSA Airlines, a subsidiary of American Airlines Group, where it will enter service as N647NN under the American Eagle brand.
Aircraft Update
EI-ILF Boeing 737-8200 c/n 67067 Ryanair Delivered Boeing Field-Dublin 22/08/25 (Aircraft No 188)
EI-ILF Boeing 737-8200 (MSN 67067) was delivered to Ryanair on 22 August 2025, arriving in Dublin from Boeing Field. The aircraft becomes the airline’s 188th of the type, further expanding its high-density, fuel-efficient fleet. This latest addition supports Ryanair’s continued growth strategy across its European network while maintaining its focus on operating one of the youngest fleets in the region.
ER-00005 Airbus A320-214 c/n 5934 Fly One Delivered to Chișinău 21/08/25 ex RP-C3277.
ER-00005 Airbus A320-214 (MSN 5934) was delivered to Fly One on 21 August 2025, arriving in Chișinău after previously operating as RP-C3277. The addition strengthens the Moldovan carrier’s narrowbody fleet, supporting its network expansion and growing demand for regional and international connectivity.
Global Aviation News
IAG Group evaluating Podgorica service
Montenegro’s Minister of Tourism, Simonida Kordić, has met with IAG Group representatives in Madrid to explore the potential launch of Iberia flights between Madrid and Podgorica. IAG confirmed that key market indicators are being evaluated, building on the strong performance of Vueling’s new seasonal Barcelona–Tivat route, which has recorded high load factors. Both parties agreed that a joint promotional campaign in Spain would be vital to support the successful introduction of the Madrid–Podgorica service.
Iberia launches new subsidiary – Iberia Tech – to develop cutting-edge tech solutions
Iberia has unveiled a new subsidiary, Iberia Tech, dedicated to advancing digital transformation within the airline group and beyond. Fully owned by the Spanish carrier, Iberia Tech will deliver innovative technological solutions to support operations across IAG airlines, including South and LEVEL, while also offering services to external partners. The launch establishes a new strategic pillar for Iberia, underscoring its commitment to technology-driven growth and efficiency.
Low-cost comeback: Budget carriers boost Jordan’s aviation network
Jordan’s aviation sector is set for renewed growth as low-cost carriers Ryanair, Eurowings, and Wizz Air resume and expand services from late August. The carriers had suspended operations earlier in the summer following regional airspace closures linked to conflict between Israel and Iran. According to Tourism Minister Imad Hijazin, the return of flights to Amman and Aqaba will significantly strengthen Jordan’s tourism recovery and enhance its international connectivity.
Lufthansa now flies Allegris first class on 10 Airbus A350s
Lufthansa has expanded its new Allegris first class offering to 10 Munich-based Airbus A350-900s, moving beyond its initial single-aircraft deployment. The premium three-suite cabin is now featured on long-haul routes including Chicago, San Francisco, San Diego, Shanghai, Bengaluru, and New York. While the bold design has been praised for its modern approach, early passenger and crew feedback indicates that the central double suite may need refinement to better meet expectations.
Schiphol welcomes ‘Wingstop’ as it aims to offer “surprising and high-quality food concepts”
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport has opened its first Wingstop outlet in Schiphol Plaza, marking the US chicken brand’s debut in the Netherlands. Known for its bold flavours and strong social media following, Wingstop adds to Schiphol’s push to diversify passenger dining options with innovative and high-quality concepts. The move reflects the airport’s broader strategy to enhance customer experience by blending global food trends with local demand.
Tampere Airport is well equipped to serve as Central Finland’s home airport
Tampere Airport handled more than 161,000 passengers in 2024 and is positioning itself as a key hub for Central Finland. The airport serves both passenger and cargo operations, offering modern facilities and strong accessibility. Business Tampere is driving its development alongside stakeholders, with airBaltic already operating a base at the airport, providing two daily flights to Riga and onward connections to over 70 European destinations. The focus now is on leveraging this foundation to expand Tampere’s role as a major regional gateway.
TAP Air Portugal partners with Revolut
TAP Air Portugal has entered into a strategic partnership with Revolut, integrating Revolut Pay as a one-click checkout option for customers in the UK and Portugal. The feature enables travellers to purchase flights on TAP’s website and mobile app securely and seamlessly, with payments authorised directly through the Revolut app using passcode or biometrics. With Revolut’s global customer base of over 60 million, the collaboration enhances convenience for TAP’s passengers while reinforcing its commitment to digital innovation in payment solutions.
6 +1 questions for the US-Athens market performance
Athens International Airport has published an analysis of the US–Athens market, examining traffic flows, demand trends, and performance drivers. The review explores six key questions, plus one additional outlook point covering factors such as passenger volumes, load factors, airline capacity, and competitive dynamics. With US–Greece services performing strongly in recent years, the analysis provides valuable insight into the market’s resilience and future opportunities for transatlantic growth.
Irish Aviation News
Aer Lingus' 11 Transatlantic Airbus A321LR & A321XLR Routes In September
Aer Lingus will operate 11 transatlantic routes using its Airbus A321LR and A321XLR aircraft in September 2025, up from seven during the same month last year. Recent expansions include the launch of Dublin–Nashville in April and Dublin–Indianapolis in May, while Toronto regained narrowbody service in January and Minneapolis saw the return of single-aisle operations in April. The growth underscores Aer Lingus’ strategy of deploying long-range narrowbodies to strengthen its North American network with greater efficiency and flexibility.
Airliner Experience – Condor Technik – B757-300 Retirement
Airliner Experience has announced a special enthusiasts’ tour at Düsseldorf Airport to mark the retirement of Condor’s Boeing 757-300 fleet. The event, planned for late September 2025, offers a rare opportunity to see the “Flying Pencil” up close, with Condor having operated seven of the stretched 757s—one of the few airlines in Europe to do so. With Icelandair also set to phase out the type, the farewell tour highlights the end of an era for one of aviation’s most distinctive narrowbody aircraft.
Avolon Delivers First Of Six Boeing 737-8 MAX Aircraft To Virgin Australia
Avolon has completed the delivery of the first of six Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft to Virgin Australia under a sale-and-leaseback agreement. The Dublin-based lessor has partnered with the airline since 2011 and already has eight aircraft on lease in its fleet. This latest addition will support Virgin Australia’s fleet renewal and growth strategy. Avolon’s President and CCO, Paul Geaney, highlighted the strength of the partnership and noted that the scale of Avolon’s orderbook and balance sheet enables it to provide tailored solutions to airlines as they expand and modernise.
Dublin Airport partners with SSP to launch new premium wine and food concept – The Reserve
Dublin Airport has introduced The Reserve, a premium wine and food bar in Terminal 2 developed in partnership with SSP Group. Positioned at the heart of the main concourse, the venue combines an elegant design with a curated wine list and an all-day dining menu, offering travellers a refined space to unwind before their flights. With its contemporary brass-finished gantry and upscale atmosphere, The Reserve is set to elevate the airport’s F&B experience, aligning with Dublin Airport’s focus on enhancing passenger choice and comfort.
Ryanair threatens to pull flights from even more Spanish airports
Ryanair has warned of further cuts to its operations in Spain, threatening to withdraw flights from additional regional airports in response to rising costs. The airline is already finalising reductions for the 2025/26 winter season, with CEO Eddie Wilson confirming that “almost a million” seats will be eliminated at lower-traffic airports. The move follows Aena’s decision to raise airport fees by 6.5%—the steepest increase in a decade—prompting Ryanair to recalibrate its Spanish operations as it seeks to protect margins in cost-sensitive markets.
Tender Launched for Donegal-Dublin PSO Air Service
The Department of Transport has opened a tender process for the Donegal–Dublin Public Service Obligation (PSO) route, ensuring continued air connectivity between the northwest and the capital. As part of the Regional Airports Programme, the service plays a critical role in supporting regional development, tourism, and access to essential services for remote communities. The tender underscores the Government’s commitment to safeguarding lifeline routes that underpin balanced connectivity across Ireland.
Tweet Picks
@Dept_Transport Minister @DarraghOBrienTD published a Request for Tenders for the Donegal–Dublin PSO air route from Feb 2026–2030. The twice-daily service supports regional growth, tourism, healthcare & Dublin Airport links. Find more: https://bit.ly/3Jqu7QH #DonegalToDublin #IrelandByAir.
@elysiasegal NASA Tests Research Aircraft to Improve Air Taxi Flight Controls: Flying the friendly skies may one day include time-saving trips in air taxis to get from point A to point B – and NASA researchers are currently working to make that future a reality.
@elroyair We’re proud to announce a major milestone for Elroy Air: our Chaparral aircraft has successfully transitioned from vertical takeoff to 70mph wingborne flight. To our team, partners, and supporters, thank you! Onward and upward!.
@etihad We are pleased to announce our partnership between Etihad Guest and e& Smiles, bringing together two of the UAE’s leading brands to offer members greater value and flexibility.
Video Picks
Archer Aviation CEO on Air Taxi Plans, Defence Spending and Future of Air Travel
In this video, Archer Aviation’s CEO outlines the company’s vision for the future of urban mobility and advanced air transport. He discusses the progress of air taxi development, the role of defence sector investment in accelerating innovation, and the broader transformation of air travel driven by sustainable and electric technologies. The conversation highlights how next-generation aircraft could redefine both civilian and defence aviation markets in the coming decade.
IAA UAS Lunchtime Lecture Series - So You Got a Drone....Now What?
In this video, part of the Irish Aviation Authority’s UAS Lunchtime Lecture Series, experts provide guidance for new drone owners on how to safely and responsibly operate their aircraft. The session covers essential topics such as registration, regulations, safe flying practices, and the broader responsibilities of drone pilots. The lecture emphasises the importance of compliance and awareness, ensuring that recreational and commercial users alike integrate seamlessly into Ireland’s airspace system.
India accelerates privatisation of more public airports to meet soaring air travel demand
A new video highlights India’s push to privatise additional public airports in response to rapidly rising passenger numbers. The discussion explores how private investment is expected to modernise infrastructure, enhance service quality, and expand capacity to meet surging domestic and international demand. With air travel in India projected to grow sharply over the coming years, the move signals the government’s focus on leveraging private sector expertise to accelerate airport development and support long-term connectivity goals.
Acumen’s Take
This edition reflects a sector balancing renewal with resilience. Fleet modernisation, digital transformation, and strategic partnerships are all advancing, underscoring aviation’s adaptability in the face of rising demand and regulatory complexity. The renewed focus on regional airports, policy frameworks, and infrastructure investment highlights the importance of balanced connectivity. Meanwhile, innovation—whether through tech subsidiaries, new loyalty platforms, or future air mobility concepts—remains central to driving long-term growth. For stakeholders, the message is clear: sustainable expansion and customer-centric strategies are becoming non-negotiable pillars of aviation’s future.
