27 Nov 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 27th 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
CC-DOH Delivered to JetSmart
An Airbus A321-271NX, registered CC-DOH (c/n 12736), has been delivered to JetSmart following its arrival at Santiago International Airport on 9 November 2025. The aircraft, originally not taken up by Wizz Air, now joins JetSmart’s expanding A321neo fleet. Its addition supports the carrier’s push toward higher-capacity, fuel-efficient operations across Chile and its wider South American network.
CC-DOJ Delivered to JetSmart
An Airbus A321-271NX, registered CC-DOJ (c/n 12832), has been delivered to JetSmart after arriving at Santiago International Airport on 6 November 2025. The aircraft was originally not taken up by Wizz Air and now becomes part of JetSmart’s growing A321neo fleet, supporting the airline’s strategy to increase capacity and fuel efficiency across its South American network.
Global Aviation News
Gulf Air Expands Its Boeing 787 Dreamliner Commitment
Gulf Air has firmed an order for 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with options for three more, strengthening the long-haul growth strategy it outlined earlier this year. The deal adds three aircraft to its July 2025 commitment, bringing the airline’s total 787 order book to 17. Signed during the Dubai Airshow, the expansion underscores Gulf Air’s focus on modern, fuel-efficient widebodies as it continues building out its international network.
Lufthansa Group Signals Intent to Bid for TAP Air Portugal
The Lufthansa Group has formally declared its interest in joining the privatization process of TAP Air Portugal, submitting an official letter of intent to Parpública, the Portuguese state holding company. The group aims to begin with a minority stake, with the long-term goal of forming a strategic partnership that supports TAP’s stability and growth as Portugal’s national carrier. This move positions Lufthansa as a key contender in one of Europe’s most closely watched airline privatizations.
Riyadh Air Selects CFM LEAP-1A Engines for Its New A321neo Fleet
Riyadh Air has placed a firm order for 120 CFM LEAP-1A engines to power its upcoming fleet of 60 Airbus A321neo aircraft, marking a major step toward the airline’s launch. Signed at the Dubai Airshow, the agreement also includes spare engines and brings CFM into Riyadh Air’s long-term growth plans.As a new premium international carrier backed by Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification strategy, Riyadh Air will benefit from the LEAP-1A’s strong fuel efficiency and advanced durability features. Notably, the engines will include CFM’s latest high-pressure turbine durability kit, designed to maximise time on wing in the region’s hot operating conditions.
Silk Way West Airlines Adds Two More Airbus A350F Freighters
Silk Way West Airlines has firmed an order for two additional Airbus A350F freighters, bringing its total commitment to four aircraft as the carrier accelerates its fleet renewal. Announced at the Dubai Airshow, the deal reinforces the Baku-based airline’s strategy to modernise its cargo operations with more efficient, lower-emission widebodies. President Wolfgang Meier said the expanded order reflects the company’s confidence in sustainable air freight growth and will strengthen its position in the global cargo market.
Turkish Airlines to Divest Its 49% Stake in Air Albania
Turkish Airlines has confirmed that its board has approved the sale of its entire 49 percent stake in Air Albania SHPK. The decision was disclosed through a statement to the Public Disclosure Platform (KAP), where the airline noted that further details will be shared with investors as the process progresses. The move marks a significant shift in Turkish Airlines’ involvement in the Albanian market, with the company indicating that all developments related to the divestment will be communicated in due course.
Uzbekistan Airways Expands A321neo Fleet with New CALC Agreement
Uzbekistan Airways has strengthened its partnership with CALC by signing LOIs for four new Airbus A321neo aircraft, scheduled to arrive between 2027 and 2028. The jets will come in a two-class layout and feature Airbus’s Airspace Premium cabin, upgraded IFE, and high-speed onboard Wi-Fi. The move continues the airline’s fleet modernisation efforts and deepens its long-standing cooperation with one of the world’s major aircraft lessors.
Uzbekistan Airways Expands Fleet with New ICBC Aviation Leasing Partnership
Uzbekistan Airways has added another key lessor to its renewal strategy by signing an LOI with ICBC Aviation Leasing for two Airbus A321neo aircraft. The jets, configured in a two-class cabin layout, are set to arrive between 2027 and 2028. This marks the airline’s first cooperation with ICBC and represents a notable step in diversifying its leasing partnerships as it continues modernising and expanding its fleet.
Willis Lease Finance Deepens LEAP Engine Portfolio
Willis Lease Finance Corporation has exercised options for 30 additional CFM LEAP spare engines, marking the largest engine order in its history. Combined with earlier commitments, this move brings WLFC’s LEAP portfolio to 70 engines, making it the largest independent lessor of LEAP spares worldwide. The order covers both LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B variants, supporting growing demand across the A320neo and 737 MAX fleets.
Wizz Air Revises Airbus Delivery Timeline to Support Profitable Growth
Wizz Air has agreed with Airbus to reschedule its order book, deferring 88 aircraft deliveries from FY2030 to FY2033 to better align capacity with long-term profitability. The carrier has also reduced its A321XLR commitment from 47 to 11, converting 36 units to A321neos. Despite the adjustments, the total order of 273 aircraft remains unchanged, supporting Wizz Air’s plan to grow seat capacity by 10–12% annually and transition to an all-neo fleet by 2029.
Irish Aviation News
IATA’s Willie Walsh Addresses Key Industry Challenges at AACO AGM
At the AACO AGM in Morocco, IATA Director General Willie Walsh highlighted solid 2025 traffic performance but warned that profitability remains fragile amid high costs and regulatory pressure. He emphasised the need for governments to uphold ICAO principles on slots, charges, safety and CORSIA, while also addressing supply-chain delays and blocked airline funds across the region. Walsh reinforced that coordinated policy, stronger adherence to global standards and better contingency planning are essential to support sustainable aviation growth in MENA.
IAT Leasing Acquires Two Boeing 737-800s on Lease to Garuda Indonesia
Dublin-based IAT Leasing has purchased two 2012-vintage Boeing 737-800s (MSN 38069 and 38070) from Itochu Corporation, with both aircraft remaining on operating lease to Garuda Indonesia. The deal represents a repeat transaction between IAT and Itochu, underscoring a growing commercial partnership. Investec financed the acquisition, supporting IAT’s continued expansion in the mid-life narrowbody segment.
Ryanair Unveils 2025 Winter Schedule for Wrocław
Ryanair has announced its 2025 winter schedule for Wrocław, featuring 38 routes, including six new services to Newcastle, London Luton, Seville, Pescara, Lamezia, and Athens. With seven aircraft based at the airport and a USD 700 million investment, the airline expects to carry over 2.5 million passengers this year. The expansion supports more than 2,500 regional jobs and includes a new cadet pilot recruitment drive for 2026.
7 Key Themes from the Travel Centres 2025 Conference in Naas
This year’s Travel Centres conference highlighted the continued strength of collaboration among Ireland’s independent agents, with personal service and trust remaining core differentiators in a digital-first world. Cruise operators outlined major fleet expansions and premium family-focused offerings, while private island destinations and beach clubs continue to reshape customer expectations. Agents also gained new support tools and incentives, reinforcing the vital role of training, validation, and partnership in driving future growth.
Together Academy Opens Vocational Training College at SMBC Aviation Capital HQ
Together Academy and SMBC Aviation Capital have opened a new vocational training college for young adults with Down syndrome at the company’s Dublin headquarters, Fitzwilliam 28. The purpose-built café and training facility will expand access to practical workplace skills and supported employment pathways. The initiative strengthens long-term inclusion efforts and creates a dedicated space where young adults can gain confidence, experience, and meaningful opportunities within the broader workforce.
TAAMI Acquires A330-300 MSN 714
TrueAero announced the acquisition of one A330-300, MSN 714, equipped with two CF6-80E1A4 engines in October 2025, in partnership with White Oak Aviation, an affiliate of White Oak Global Advisors, LLC.
UL and Aer Lingus Launch New Aeronautical Innovation Partnership
The University of Limerick and Aer Lingus have announced a new collaboration focused on advancing aeronautical engineering research. As part of the initiative, Aer Lingus will sponsor selected Maintenance and Engineering staff to undertake a Master of Engineering by Research at UL. The partnership blends academic expertise with frontline industry experience, strengthening Ireland’s talent pipeline in aviation technology and innovation.
What Makes Ryanair So Profitable?
A new analysis from Airline Weekly unpacks why Ryanair continues to post industry-leading results, with its latest third-quarter earnings once again outperforming expectations. The discussion highlights the core drivers behind Ryanair’s success, relentless cost control, strong peak-season demand, and a network strategy built for scale. The piece also touches on insights shared by the CEOs of Etihad and Oman Air at Skift Global Forum East, offering a broader view of how major carriers see the next phase of global travel growth.
William Fry Advises Investor in CityJet Examinership
William Fry has advised an investor through CityJet’s complex examinership process, a restructuring marked by multiple international creditors and significant aviation-sector stakeholders. The court’s scheme confirmation provides fresh guidance on examinership practice under the EU Preventive Restructuring Directive, particularly around creditor classes, valuation disagreements, and the best-interests test. The firm’s team, led by Fergus Doorly with Maire O’Neill, Declan Keane, and Aaron Kelly, successfully navigated a challenging multi-party process to a positive outcome.
Tweet Picks
@AirbusPRESS .@FlyEthiopian strengthens its position as Africa’s largest A350 operator with order for six additional A350-900s
@ByERussell Air Canada and Porter are about to duke it out over US traffic from Toronto’s downtown Billy Bishop Airport. But does the market need the growth? Traffic is down — a lot — this year compared to 2024. And AC has a history of steamrolling competitors.
@ByERussell The Pittsburgh Airport’s new $1.7 billion terminal opens this morning with a new “bold and impactful” take on airport wayfinding and signage.
@theaircurrent Customer consensus pushes Airbus toward shorter legs for A220 stretch.
Video Picks
From Miles to Millions: How Copa Airlines Reimagines Loyalty
This segment looks at how Copa Airlines has turned its loyalty programme into a core growth engine rather than a simple add-on. The discussion highlights Copa’s shift toward data-driven rewards, stronger co-brand partnerships, and a strategy that treats loyalty as a high-value business line. It’s a clear breakdown of how the airline is using engagement and personalisation to drive both revenue and long-term customer retention.
Inside Emirates Airlines: Strategy, Fleet Challenges and Leadership with Sir Tim Clark
This interview offers a candid look at how Sir Tim Clark is steering Emirates through aircraft delivery delays, shifting manufacturer dynamics, and long-term growth planning. He discusses the impact of Boeing’s setbacks, the airline’s ongoing talks with Airbus, and the operational adjustments required to maintain network reliability. The conversation also digs into Clark’s leadership philosophy, giving viewers a grounded view of how Emirates thinks about resilience, scale, and the next decade of airline strategy.
ITAA Conference in Alcobaça: Industry Insights and Travel Trends
This video captures highlights from the ITAA Conference in Alcobaça, where industry leaders, agents and suppliers came together to discuss the outlook for travel in 2026. The segment touches on market demand, shifting traveller behaviour, and how Irish agencies are adapting to new commercial realities. It also offers a glimpse into the collaborative sessions, speaker panels and on-ground networking that continue to shape strategy for Ireland’s travel trade community.
Acumen’s Take
The latest developments point to an industry that is modernising quickly while still wrestling with supply-chain drag, shifting fleet strategies, and evolving regulatory pressures. Widebody and narrowbody renewals continue at pace, matched by strong leasing activity and expanding engine support commitments from operators and lessors alike. Airlines are positioning for long-term efficiency through neo and next-gen platforms, while airports and regulators push for better alignment on competitiveness and sustainability. Regional markets remain active, with Ireland sustaining strong connectivity, MRO capability growth, and commercial momentum across airlines and lessors. Overall, the market outlook is stable but heavily dependent on disciplined fleet planning, smarter partnerships, and improved operational resilience.
