28 Jan 2026
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 28th 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:
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs
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
VQ-CAY Airbus A321-231(F) Ferried to Haikou
An Airbus A321-231 freighter, registered VQ-CAY (c/n 2290), was ferried to Haikou on 12 December 2025 under the ownership of Aero Capital Solutions. The aircraft, previously registered as 9H-CGR, has transitioned as part of a freighter programme, reflecting continued activity in the narrowbody cargo conversion market as operators expand medium-haul freight capacity to support regional logistics growth.
VP-COJ Airbus A320-271N Ferried to Jinan
An Airbus A320-271N, registered VP-COJ (c/n 8850), was ferried to Jinan on 4 January 2026 under the ownership of ICBC Financial Leasing. The aircraft was previously registered as VT-WJK and has now transitioned into its new operational phase, reflecting continued demand for next-generation narrowbody assets within the Chinese domestic and regional market.
Global Aviation News
Airbus Reports 793 Commercial Aircraft Deliveries in 2025
Airbus delivered 793 commercial aircraft to 91 customers in 2025, a 4% year-on-year increase, while recording 1,000 gross orders (889 net) across its portfolio. Strong demand for both single-aisle and widebody aircraft pushed Airbus’ order backlog to a record 8,754 aircraft at year-end, including an all-time high widebody backlog of 1,124 units. The year also saw new operators join the A220, A321XLR, A330neo and A350-1000 programmes, supporting a book-to-bill ratio above one despite a complex operating environment.
Air Cambodia Launches Refreshed Brand with Aeroprime Group Support, Eyes Indian Market
Air Cambodia has unveiled a refreshed brand identity as part of a broader repositioning strategy, supported by India-based Aeroprime Group. The rebrand signals a renewed focus on growth, service quality, and network development, with the airline identifying India as a key target market for future expansion. The move reflects rising traffic potential between South and Southeast Asia and underlines Air Cambodia’s intent to strengthen its regional presence through partnerships and market-led strategy.
Air France Expands Winter 2025–2026 Long-Haul Services
Air France is strengthening its winter 2025–2026 long-haul programme with additional and resumed services across key leisure markets, including three weekly flights to Punta Cana from 13 January 2026 operated by Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. The expansion forms part of a broader network strategy as the airline maintains close to 800 daily flights to around 170 destinations, alongside continued investment in premium products such as expanded La Première suites and a fleet-wide high-speed Wi-Fi rollout planned by the end of 2026, supporting sustained recovery in long-haul leisure demand.
Air Passengers Should Keep Their Rights, Say MEPs
Members of the European Parliament’s Transport and Tourism Committee have voted to maintain strong EU air passenger rights, rejecting proposals to dilute compensation rules. MEPs backed keeping the existing three-hour delay threshold and current compensation levels of €300–€600 depending on distance, alongside new protections including free carriage of one personal item and one small cabin bag, free seating for adults accompanying children under 14 or passengers with reduced mobility, and mandatory pre-filled compensation forms from airlines. While recognising limits to airline liability in clearly defined extraordinary circumstances, the committee signalled firm resistance to any rollback of core passenger protections as discussions continue with EU member states.
Air Atlanta Icelandic Expands Digital Maintenance with Trax eMobility
Air Atlanta Icelandic has expanded its long-standing partnership with Trax through a multi-year contract to add Trax’s eMobility and cloud hosting solutions. Building on its 2024 upgrade to the eMRO platform, the airline aims to further digitise maintenance operations by enabling mobile defect management, electronic task card execution, and a fully electronic technical logbook for pilots. The deployment is designed to improve turnaround coordination, reduce paper reliance, and enhance data accuracy and regulatory compliance across Air Atlanta Icelandic’s maintenance workflows.
Mercuria and Airborne Capital Launch Open-Ended Aircraft Fund
Mercuria Investment Co. and Airborne Capital have announced the launch of MACH OE, a new open-ended aircraft fund designed to provide investors with greater liquidity and flexibility compared with traditional closed-ended structures. The initiative is the first of its kind by a Japan-based asset manager in the aircraft fund sector and is targeting assets in excess of JPY 150 billion. The Development Bank of Japan is expected to participate as an anchor investor, with broader backing anticipated from institutional investors, highlighting growing appetite for scalable and more liquid aircraft investment platforms.
A4A Launches “Red, Flight & Blue—Celebrating America 250” Campaign
Airlines for America has launched a new nationwide campaign titled “Red, Flight & Blue, Celebrating America 250” ahead of the United States’ 250th Independence Day on 4 July. The multi-platform initiative will roll out across social media, blogs, video, earned, and paid media, highlighting the people, technological progress, and defining milestones that have shaped American aviation. The campaign aims to underline aviation’s role in national development while engaging a broad digital audience in the lead-up to the landmark anniversary.
Cargo Wings Express Acquires Two 737 Freighters for Tunisia Launch
Cargo Wings Express has acquired two Boeing 737-300 passenger-to-freighter aircraft as it prepares to commence operations from Tunis-Carthage International Airport. The aircraft, leased from Cargo Air, will support both scheduled and charter cargo services covering general and specialised freight. As part of its operational readiness, the airline has also partnered with Simaero for Boeing 737 Classic pilot training and instructor development, signalling a structured approach to fleet entry and crew capability as it launches services in 2026.
Delta Sees Premium Demand Driving Record Results as Main Cabin Weakens
Delta Air Lines says affluent, premium-focused travellers are underpinning another potential record year, even as demand in the main cabin softens. Speaking on the airline’s Q4 2025 earnings call, CEO Ed Bastian noted that high-income passengers and Delta’s loyalty ecosystem are insulating the carrier from broader industry pressure, while warning that “the bottom end of the industry on the commodity side” is struggling. Delta guided to 2026 adjusted earnings per share of $6.50–$7.50, above 2025 levels, though shares dipped after markets reacted to guidance falling short of earlier, pre-tariff expectations, highlighting the growing divergence between premium resilience and economy-class weakness.
Irish Aviation News
Aer Lingus Hosts FAM Trip at Hilton Tulum as Cancún Service Gains Traction
Aer Lingus has hosted an Irish travel trade and media familiarisation trip to the Hilton Tulum All-Inclusive Resort, showcasing its new direct service from Dublin Airport to Cancún. Operating three times weekly until the end of April, the route marks Aer Lingus’ first scheduled nonstop service to Cancún, significantly improving access to Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula for Irish travellers. The FAM trip highlighted growing demand from Ireland for long-haul leisure destinations, with the direct service offering greater flexibility on trip length and strengthening Ireland–Mexico tourism links.
Airline Flight Academy Visits Ryanair’s New Training Centre in Kraków
Airline Flight Academy has visited Ryanair’s new training centre in Kraków as part of a joint recruitment and engagement event with Buzz. Held on 10 January 2026, the event brought together more than 200 trainee pilots, offering access to Ryanair/Buzz’s training facilities and direct interaction with recruitment and training teams. AFA presented its Ryanair-aligned APS MCC programme, highlighting airline data showing significantly higher assessment pass rates compared with standard MCC courses, as Buzz continues active pilot hiring into 2026, underscoring sustained demand for airline-ready flight crew.
Irish City Named World’s Best Solo Travel Destination for 2026
Galway has been named the world’s best solo travel destination for 2026 by the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, highlighting Ireland’s growing appeal for independent travellers. The recognition reflects Galway’s walkable city centre, strong safety profile, welcoming social culture, and easy access to nature, food, and live music. The accolade reinforces Ireland’s positioning as a high-quality, accessible destination for solo travel, with positive knock-on effects for regional tourism demand and air connectivity.
Agents Report Strong Start to 2026 Despite Talk of a Soft January
Irish travel agents are reporting a robust start to 2026, challenging expectations of a quieter January trading period. Jeff Collins, Managing Director of Best4Travel, cited strong demand across family, cruise, and touring segments, supported by repeat customers, in-store engagement, and a low €50 booking deposit. Emma McHugh of Atlantic Travel reported bumper booking volumes between Christmas and New Year, rising booking values, and a trend towards immediate confirmations, with Mediterranean and Asia cruises in demand and a notable uplift in USA travel, particularly Orlando, alongside growing interest in group family travel.
Azorra Announces Accounting Manager Appointment
Azorra has announced the appointment of Ronan as Accounting Manager, effective January 2026, strengthening its finance and accounting function. Ronan brings more than eight years of aircraft leasing experience, having worked at PwC’s Banking, Insurance & Aircraft Leasing Assurance practice and within the finance teams of ORIX Aviation and the Commonwealth Bank of Australia. A graduate of Dublin Institute of Technology and a member of Chartered Accountants Ireland, he specialises in complex technical accounting matters within the aviation sector, supporting Azorra’s continued portfolio growth and financial discipline.
Belfast City Airport Achieves Platinum Level for Environmental Performance
Belfast City Airport has achieved Platinum Level in Business in the Community Northern Ireland’s Environmental Benchmarking Survey for the sixth consecutive year, underlining its sustained commitment to environmental stewardship. The annual assessment evaluates performance across carbon management, biodiversity, waste reduction, and wider sustainability practices. Belfast City Airport has reduced its direct carbon emissions by 13% since 2022, reflecting continued progress in embedding responsible and measurable sustainability initiatives into airport operations.
CityJet Seeks New CFO as Airline Enters Renewed Growth Phase
CityJet has opened applications for a new Chief Financial Officer, signalling a key leadership hire as the Dublin-based carrier moves into a renewed phase of financial and operational strengthening. The role is positioned as central to long-term stability and strategic execution following CityJet’s successful exit from examinership in October 2025. The appointment comes as the airline looks to rebuild momentum after restructuring challenges triggered by the loss of a major wet-lease contract, with a clear focus on balance sheet resilience and sustainable growth.
Emirates Marks 15 Years in Ireland with Travel Trade Celebration
Emirates has marked 15 years of operations in Ireland with a travel trade celebration at Ballymagarvey Village, bringing together key industry partners for an evening of networking and recognition. The event was hosted by the Emirates Ireland team and attended by Pierfrancesco Carino, Vice President of Emirates, who travelled from Dubai for the occasion. The gathering underscored Emirates’ long-standing commitment to the Irish market and its close collaboration with the travel trade, reflecting the airline’s continued focus on strengthening relationships and supporting outbound travel from Ireland.
Ryanair to Reinstate Seats and Add German Routes After Tax Cut
Ryanair has announced plans to reinstate 300,000 seats and launch 11 new routes across Germany for summer 2026, following the German Government’s decision to reduce air passenger duty and freeze air traffic control fees. The capacity increase will be concentrated at lower-cost airports such as Bremen, Cologne, Memmingen and Weeze, while capacity will be reduced at higher-cost airports including Berlin and Hamburg. Ryanair said the move highlights how tax and cost policy directly influences airline capacity decisions, with further growth possible if Germany fully abolishes the passenger tax and lowers aviation charges.
Tweet Picks
@airBaltic In 2025, @airBaltic carried 5.2 million passengers across its route network, a 1.4% increase compared to the previous year and the highest annual passenger number in the airline’s history. During the year, we operated 2.6% more flights, while the average load factor remained stable at 80.2%.
@ByERussell In a New Years letter to staff, @united CEO Scott Kirby hinted at "new aircraft types" to come in 2026. Could an order — cough*A350*cough — be coming?.
@ByERussell Jude Bricker, CEO of Sun Country and future Allegiant board member, says the merger will be good for @mspairport "We’re going to see more seats and more growth here," he said citing more flights during off-peak times of day at MSP with Allegiant's larger fleet.
@ByERussell Starlux eyes East Coast destinations from Taiwan with its new Airbus A350-1000s.
Video Picks
Embraer Eyes India for Commercial Aircraft Assembly Line
Embraer is exploring India as a potential location for a commercial aircraft assembly line, reflecting the country’s growing strategic importance in the global aerospace supply chain. In this CNBC TV18 discussion, Embraer executives outline how rising domestic air travel demand, government support for manufacturing, and a developing aerospace ecosystem make India an attractive long-term proposition. The video highlights how localisation could support airline growth, reduce costs, and position India as a regional hub for aircraft manufacturing and assembly.
Germany Drops Transit Visa Requirement for Indian Passengers
Germany has removed the transit visa requirement for Indian passport holders at major international airports, a move expected to significantly ease travel through key European hubs. This video explains how the change simplifies connections for Indian travellers transiting through Germany, improving journey times and flexibility while strengthening Europe–India air connectivity. The decision is likely to benefit airlines, airports, and long-haul passengers alike by making German hubs more competitive for intercontinental transfer traffic.
KPMG & Airline Economics: Aviation Leaders Interview with Peter Barrett
In this Aviation Leaders interview, Peter Barrett joins KPMG and Airline Economics to discuss key themes shaping the global aviation and leasing landscape. The conversation covers market discipline, capital allocation, fleet strategy, and how lessors and airlines are navigating supply constraints, financing conditions, and long-term risk. The discussion offers a candid, senior-level perspective on where value is being created across the aviation ecosystem as the industry moves deeper into its next growth cycle.
Acumen’s Take
The aviation sector continues to move into a phase defined less by recovery and more by recalibration. Capacity decisions, capital discipline, and operational efficiency are now the real differentiators, not growth for its own sake. Airlines and lessors are navigating a market where demand is uneven, costs remain elevated, and asset quality matters more than ever. Regulatory, sustainability, and technology pressures are no longer future considerations, they are current operating realities. Those who stay agile, data-driven, and selective will be best positioned as the cycle matures further.
