27 Jan 2026
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 27th January 2026
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 Inaugural A321XLR to Shannon
Aer Lingus operated the first-ever Airbus A321XLR commercial service into Shannon Airport on 17 January, marking a notable milestone for both the aircraft type and the airport. The flight was operated by EI-XLW on a Dublin–London Heathrow–Shannon W-pattern rotation, replacing a scheduled A320neo service. This deployment underlines the A321XLR’s operational flexibility, demonstrating its ability to support short-haul network optimisation alongside its intended long-range role.
FlyArystan Adds EI-KFI A320neo
FlyArystan has expanded its fleet with the addition of a leased Airbus A320neo, bringing its total aircraft count to 28. The aircraft, registered EI-KFI (MSN 12684), was delivered from Dublin-based lessor Avolon and is configured in a high-density 188-seat, single-class layout. Powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, the delivery further strengthens FlyArystan’s low-cost growth strategy, with its fleet now comprising 15 A320ceo and 13 A320neo aircraft.
Qanot Sharq Partners with Inflight Dublin
Inflight Dublin has entered into a new five-year partnership with Qanot Sharq, marking a significant step in the airline’s onboard product strategy. Under the agreement, Inflight Dublin will deploy its next-generation Everhub™ wireless inflight entertainment platform across Qanot Sharq’s Airbus fleet and act as the airline’s Content Service Provider. The announcement coincides with Qanot Sharq taking delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR, leased long-term from Air Lease, supporting the carrier’s fleet modernisation and long-haul ambitions.
Aircraft Update
CN-RHM Boeing 737-8 Delivered to Casablanca
A Boeing 737-8, registered CN-RHM (c/n 44316), was delivered to Royal Air Maroc on 16 January 2026. The aircraft was ferried to Casablanca from its previous registration as A7-BSA, marking its entry into the carrier’s narrowbody fleet. The delivery supports Royal Air Maroc’s ongoing fleet modernisation programme and capacity growth across its short- and medium-haul network.
EI-DAC Boeing 737-8AS(F) Ferried to Jacksonville
A Boeing 737-8AS(F), registered EI-DAC (c/n 29938), was ferried for ASL Airlines Ireland between 31 December 2025 and 16 January 2026. The aircraft routed via Liège, Shannon, Keflavik, and Bangor before arriving in Jacksonville, reflecting a multi-stage transatlantic ferry operation. The movement highlights continued fleet activity within the narrowbody freighter segment, supporting growing demand for medium-haul cargo capacity.
Global Aviation News
Scotland Confirms Air Departure Tax Replacement from 2027
The Scottish Government has confirmed it will introduce a devolved Air Departure Tax (ADT) from 1 April 2027, replacing the UK-wide Air Passenger Duty for flights departing Scotland. In its first year, rates will mirror existing APD levels before Scotland moves to independently set its own charges from 2028, including higher surcharges for business aviation. The policy shift gives Scotland greater control over aviation taxation, with potential implications for airline pricing, airport competitiveness, and route development at Scottish airports.
Signature Aviation Expands Global Reach to Costa Rica
Signature Aviation has announced plans to expand its Latin American footprint with the development of a new general aviation terminal at Guanacaste Airport (MRLB) in Costa Rica. The project will introduce a purpose-built G&BAT facility designed to elevate the private aviation experience, featuring premium passenger amenities, dedicated customs and immigration processing, and direct ramp access. The terminal will incorporate sustainable design elements and locally inspired architecture, reinforcing Signature Aviation’s strategy to combine high-end service standards with regionally tailored infrastructure for business aviation growth.
Sin-Kung Airways Nears 737-400F Launch
Sin-Kung Airways is preparing to launch freighter operations with its first aircraft, positioning itself as the latest operator of Boeing 737 Classic freighters in Malaysia. The airline is finalising airworthiness and regulatory approvals with the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia ahead of entry into service of a 1998-built Boeing 737-400SF, previously operated by ASL Airlines Ireland. The move reflects continued regional demand for proven narrowbody freighter platforms supporting short- and medium-haul cargo networks across Southeast Asia.
Suparna Launches 777 Freighter Route Between Liège and Chongqing
Suparna Airlines has launched the first nonstop all-cargo service between Liege Airport and Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, strengthening Europe–China freight connectivity. The route commenced on 5 January using a Boeing 777F delivered in September 2025, underscoring continued widebody freighter deployment on high-volume trade lanes. The service reflects sustained demand for long-haul cargo capacity linking European logistics hubs with western China’s manufacturing and distribution centres.
The Biggest Commercial Aircraft Lessors by Fleet Size in 2026
An overview of the global aircraft leasing landscape highlights the continued dominance of large-scale lessors as airlines prioritise capital preservation and fleet flexibility. Leading leasing companies control substantial fleets, enabling them to support airline growth, manage risk across cycles, and respond to shifting market demand. The analysis underlines how scale, access to capital, and portfolio diversification remain key competitive advantages in the commercial aircraft leasing sector entering 2026.
Tropic Air Completes 2025–2026 Fleet Expansion with Final Factory-New Aircraft
Tropic Air has taken delivery of its fifth and final factory-new Cessna Grand Caravan EX under its 2025–2026 fleet expansion programme. The addition brings the airline’s all-Caravan fleet to 15 aircraft, making it one of the youngest fleets in Belize and the wider region. The investment reinforces Tropic Air’s focus on operational reliability, safety, and consistent passenger experience through modern, standardised turboprop operations.
Delta CEO Warns Credit Card Rate Cap Could Disrupt Airline Economics
Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian has cautioned that a proposed 10% cap on credit card interest rates could significantly disrupt airline business models. Speaking to analysts, Bastian questioned the practicality of implementing such a cap, particularly given airlines’ deep partnerships with card issuers like American Express. The proposal, floated by Donald Trump, raises broader concerns about the potential impact on loyalty programmes and ancillary revenue streams that are central to airline profitability.
Travel Agencies Exceed US$100 Billion in Air Ticket Sales
US travel agencies surpassed US$100 billion in airline ticket sales for the first time in 2025, underscoring the continued relevance of intermediated distribution. Data from Airlines Reporting Corporation shows agencies sold US$100.4 billion in air tickets, a 1% increase year-on-year, supported by a strong finish to the year despite softer demand earlier in 2025. The milestone reflects steady growth in both domestic and international passenger trips, with travel agencies and online platforms playing a central role in airline sales outside of direct channels.
U.S. Cargo and Passenger Airlines Added 21,839 Jobs in November 2025
Data released by the Bureau of Transportation Statistics shows that U.S. cargo and passenger airlines added 21,839 jobs in November 2025, reflecting continued workforce expansion across the sector. Employment figures were influenced by structural changes within the industry, notably the consolidation of FedEx operating units into Federal Express Corporation in mid-2024. The increase highlights sustained operational demand despite broader economic and market uncertainties.
Irish Aviation News
Avolon Expands Fleet and Financing in 2025
Avolon reported a year of significant fleet and balance sheet expansion in 2025, marked by large-scale aircraft acquisitions, record sales activity, and substantial new placements of next-generation aircraft. The lessor strengthened its long-term growth profile with major Airbus orders extending to 2033, while ending the year with a fleet exceeding 1,130 aircraft including commitments. Upgraded credit ratings and over US$6.6 billion in new unsecured financing further reinforced Avolon’s financial flexibility and execution capacity entering 2026.
Belfast Airports See Modest November Softness as Derry Leads Growth
Passenger traffic across Belfast’s two airports was broadly stable in November, with combined volumes of 658,039 passengers showing only marginal movement year-on-year. Belfast City Airport continued to outperform on a year-on-year basis, while Belfast International Airport remained steady despite a slight easing in rolling annual totals. In contrast, City of Derry Airport recorded the strongest momentum, posting significant growth in its rolling annual figures, reinforcing its position as Ireland’s fastest-growing airport.
Plans Filed for Multi-Million Euro ‘Cargo Village’ at Dublin Airport
Dublin Airport Authority has submitted planning applications for a major multi-million euro Cargo Village development at Dublin Airport, aimed at strengthening the airport’s freight and border control infrastructure. The project will include new facilities for An Post, the Revenue Commissioners, and an expanded border inspection point for non-EU goods. Construction of the first phase is expected to begin in 2028 and conclude by 2030, forming part of DAA’s longer-term capital investment programme as Dublin continues to grow its passenger and cargo throughput.
PwC Ireland Aviation Finance Outlook 2026
PwC Ireland’s Aviation Finance Outlook points to 2026 as a year of opportunity marked by greater market stability and strategic transition. While aircraft delivery flows are normalising and airline profitability remains supportive of demand, engine and MRO constraints continue to limit operational flexibility. The report highlights ongoing consolidation in the leasing sector, sustained sustainability and regulatory pressures, and the growing role of technology, including GenAI, as key factors shaping asset values, risk management, and long-term competitiveness.
Ryanair Warns of Major Capacity Cuts at Belgian Airports Over Passenger Tax Hikes
Ryanair has warned it will significantly reduce capacity at Belgian airports, planning to cut 1.1 million seats in 2026 and a further 1.1 million in 2027 at Brussels South Charleroi Airport. The airline cites rising passenger taxes at both local and federal levels as the primary driver, arguing the measures erode Belgium’s competitiveness. Ryanair contrasts the move with other European countries that have scrapped aviation taxes to stimulate traffic, tourism, and employment.
Titan Aviation Leasing Acquires Boeing 777-300ER to Support China Airlines’ Long-Haul Growth
Titan Aviation Leasing has completed the acquisition of a Boeing 777-300ER (MSN 41823), placed on long-term lease with China Airlines. The transaction, which closed in December 2025, strengthens Titan’s portfolio of modern long-haul widebody assets. The deal also supports China Airlines’ ongoing network expansion while deepening Titan’s exposure to the Asia-Pacific market through partnership with a leading flag carrier.
USA Visitor Numbers Down 2.5% in 2025 as Ireland Slips to 16th Market
Visitor travel from the United States to Ireland declined by 2.5% in 2025, resulting in Ireland falling to 16th place among the most important outbound markets for US travellers. The data highlights softer transatlantic demand compared with competing destinations, reflecting shifting travel preferences and intensified competition. The trend has implications for airline capacity planning, tourism strategy, and Ireland’s positioning within the wider North American travel market.
Waterford Airport Investor Identified as Kelcy Warren
Waterford Airport’s previously anonymous investor has been identified as US energy billionaire Kelcy Warren, following media reports in early January. Warren has committed €30 million to fund a runway extension aimed at restoring commercial air services after a decade-long hiatus. The investment, secured under a non-disclosure agreement, marks a significant step in Waterford Airport’s redevelopment plans and regional connectivity ambitions.
Tweet Picks
@ATWOnline The @TSA plans to significantly expand its Pre-Check Touchless ID program, which allows passengers to move through checkpoints using #biometric facial recognition as their sole form of identification.
@ATWOnline Maldives-based @BeondAirlines says it has raised $90 million to date and is looking for a further $100 million to accelerate its expansion to 56 aircraft operating across several different Air Operator Certificates (#AOC) by 2030.
@ATWOnline Taiwan’s EVA Air continues to build its footprint in Europe with frequency increases and @Airbus #A350-1000s, which will replace the airline’s @Boeing #777-300ERs.
@ATWOnline U.S. airlines have formally asked the @USDOT to intervene in a long-running dispute over passenger limits at @DublinAirport, arguing that the continued enforcement of a cap could restrict transatlantic service.
Video Picks
Eoghan Corry & Ciara Kelly: Latest on Dublin Airport Passenger Cap
In this discussion, travel analyst Eoghan Corry and broadcaster Ciara Kelly examine the latest developments surrounding the passenger cap at Dublin Airport. The conversation explores the policy, political, and economic implications of the cap, including its impact on airline capacity, tourism growth, and Ireland’s international connectivity, as pressure mounts for regulatory clarity and reform.
Keith Glatz of A4A on Dublin Airport Passenger Cap
In this video, Keith Glatz of Airlines for America outlines industry concerns regarding the passenger cap at Dublin Airport. The discussion focuses on the cap’s impact on transatlantic connectivity, airline growth, and competitive access for US carriers, highlighting broader regulatory and policy implications as pressure builds for a resolution.
Michael O’Leary on Dublin Airport Passenger Cap
In this video, Michael O’Leary shares his perspective on the passenger cap at Dublin Airport and its implications for airline capacity, fares, and Ireland’s connectivity. The commentary reflects broader industry frustration with infrastructure and policy constraints, highlighting how regulatory decisions can directly influence network growth and competitive dynamics in the Irish aviation market.
Tourism Minister Peter Burke on Dublin Airport Passenger Cap
In this video, Peter Burke addresses the ongoing debate around the passenger cap at Dublin Airport, outlining the government’s perspective on capacity constraints and their impact on tourism and connectivity. The discussion highlights the balance policymakers are seeking between infrastructure limits, regulatory compliance, and the need to support Ireland’s aviation and tourism sectors as demand continues to grow.
Acumen’s Take
Capacity, capital, and policy are increasingly converging as the defining forces shaping aviation in 2026. Fleet modernisation and leasing activity remain robust, but infrastructure constraints and regulatory decisions are now directly influencing network growth and market competitiveness. Cargo and premium demand continue to provide resilience, while taxation and passenger caps risk diverting traffic rather than managing it. The industry’s next phase will favour operators and lessors that can balance scale, flexibility, and political realities with disciplined execution.
