02 Dec 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 2nd December 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
CityJet Strengthens CRJ Fleet
CityJet has added another Mitsubishi CRJ-900LR to its fleet, with the delivery of EI-HSD (msn 15085) on 12 November 2025. The aircraft will fly for SAS Scandinavian Airlines under a wet-lease arrangement and be based at Copenhagen Airport (CPH). The latest addition reinforces CityJet’s position as a key ACMI partner for European carriers, supporting SAS with dependable regional capacity during peak operational periods.
Dublin Welcomes ASKY Airlines Boeing 737 MAX
Dublin has handled the arrival of a Boeing 737 MAX 8 destined for ASKY Airlines, delivered via Ethiopian Airlines Group. The aircraft, built in 2019 and previously intended for Ural Airlines as VP-BHR, was never accepted due to sanctions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Now registered ET-BBD (msn 66147), it arrived on the ETH9201 ferry routing from Boeing Field to Dublin before continuing to Addis Ababa between 18 and 20 November 2025. The jet landed in an all-white livery with Ural colours still visible on the rudder and sharklets, and will undergo a full repaint before entering service with ASKY Airlines.
Newest flydubai 737 MAX Delivered Through Shannon
flydubai has added another brand-new Boeing 737 MAX 8 to its expanding fleet with the delivery of A6-FPI (msn 61036), marking the carrier’s 13th new MAX. The aircraft departed Boeing Field on 18 November as ferry flight FDB9741, arriving at Shannon the following morning for its technical stop. After an overnight stay, it continued onward on 20 November, landing at Dubai International later that afternoon. The delivery reflects flydubai’s steady fleet growth as the airline continues to scale capacity across its regional and medium-haul network.
Aircraft Update
EI-HSD CRJ900 Delivered to CityJet
CityJet took delivery of a Mitsubishi CRJ900, EI-HSD (c/n 15085), on 12 November 2025 following its movement from Maastricht to Copenhagen. Previously registered as OE-IIR, the aircraft now joins CityJet’s ACMI fleet supporting SAS Scandinavian Airlines. The addition strengthens the carrier’s regional capacity offering, ensuring greater operational flexibility for SAS during high-demand periods and maintaining CityJet’s role as a key wet-lease partner in Northern Europe.
EI-ILR Boeing 737-8200 Delivered to Ryanair
Ryanair has added EI-ILR (c/n 67127) to its growing fleet of Boeing 737-8200 aircraft, with delivery completed on 27 November 2025 from Boeing Field to Dublin. Designated as aircraft number 205 in the airline’s programme, the newest MAX-8200 supports Ryanair’s ongoing capacity expansion across its European network. The delivery reflects the carrier’s continued focus on high-density, fuel-efficient aircraft as it scales operations into 2026.
Global Aviation News
Republic Airways and Mesa Air Group Finalise Merger
Republic Airways Holdings has completed its merger with Mesa Air Group, creating a major publicly traded regional airline with a renewed focus on safe and reliable connectivity across the United States. Announced in April and approved by Mesa shareholders in November, the deal consolidates two significant regional operators under one structure. Republic shareholders now hold roughly 88 per cent of the combined company, while Mesa shareholders will receive between 6 and 12 per cent, depending on the final settlement of pre-closing obligations. The merger positions the unified airline to strengthen operational scale, streamline resources, and support long-term regional network growth.
Rolls-Royce Powers Air Algérie’s First A330neo into Service
Air Algérie has taken delivery of its first Airbus A330neo, powered exclusively by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, marking the start of a significant widebody fleet renewal programme. The aircraft, which arrived in Algiers from Toulouse on 13 November, is the first of ten A330-900neos set to join the airline by mid-2027. The milestone highlights a deepening partnership between Airbus, Rolls-Royce and Air Algérie, supporting the carrier’s long-haul expansion with more efficient, next-generation widebodies designed to enhance performance, range and passenger experience.
Signature Aviation Expands South Florida Network with KFXE Acquisition
Signature Aviation is set to strengthen its footprint in one of the busiest private aviation corridors in the United States through the acquisition of Fort Lauderdale Executive Jet Centre at KFXE. The move deepens Signature’s presence across South Florida, enhancing access and service options for corporate and private aviation customers. CEO Tony Lefebvre noted that integrating the facility into the Signature network aligns with the company’s commitment to elevating guest experience and delivering consistent, high-quality hospitality across its growing portfolio.
Skylark Field Opens New FBO and Joins Avfuel Network
Skylark Field (KILE), a dedicated general aviation airport in Central Texas, has launched its newest FBO as it formally becomes part of the Avfuel network. The 3,000 sq ft terminal elevates the airport’s service offering with a bright reception area, dedicated lounges for pilots and passengers, a modern meeting room and complimentary amenities. Executive Director Mike Wilson highlighted the airport’s commitment to improving the travel experience for both the local community and visiting operators as Skylark Field positions itself for increased general aviation activity.
Tecnam Delivers Two P2012 Travellers to Germany’s Sai Air GmbH
Tecnam has handed over two new P2012 Traveller aircraft to Sai Air GmbH, marking a key milestone for the emerging German operator as it begins services from Lahr and Nürnberg. The delivery ceremony took place at Tecnam’s headquarters in Capua, where Sai Air’s team accepted the aircraft ahead of launch. The P2012 Travellers will enhance the airline’s capacity to offer flexible, customer-focused charter solutions across Europe, leveraging the type’s efficiency, reliability and comfort to strengthen its presence in the regional market.
GHI Unveils Programme for 2026 Safety Conference at London Gatwick
GHI has announced the agenda for its inaugural Safety Conference, scheduled for 24 February 2026 at the Hilton London Gatwick. The event is designed as a collaborative platform for aviation stakeholders to exchange strategies on reducing operational risks and strengthening safety culture across stations. The conference will open with a keynote from Michael Schweiger of DHL Express, who survived the QY5960 cargo crash in Vilnius and will share insights from the preliminary accident report.
TUIfly and DLR Launch Flight-Shadowing Study on Contrail Climate Impact
TUIfly and the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) have launched an ambitious new research campaign in which a DLR research aircraft shadows regular TUIfly passenger flights to study how aircraft contrails form and how their climate impact can be reduced.Announced on 26 November 2025, the project is part of the EU-funded A4Climate initiative, which aims to provide practical tools and technologies to curb aviation’s environmental footprint.
UPS Mitigates Capacity Loss After MD-11 Freighter Grounding
UPS is reshaping its peak-season operations to counter the grounding of its MD-11 freighter fleet, which followed a fatal crash involving the type earlier this month. To maintain network throughput during the busiest shipping period of the year, the integrator has secured extra lift through wet-leased aircraft, consolidated select flight routes to optimise available air capacity, and shifted more volume into its extensive ground network. UPS says the adjustments, supported by partner airlines and internal logistics restructuring, are helping preserve service reliability despite the temporary reduction in widebody freighter capacity.
Irish Aviation News
Aer Lingus Regional Introduces Express Bag Drop at Belfast City Airport
Aer Lingus Regional, operated by Emerald Airlines, has launched new Express Bag Drop kiosks at Belfast City Airport, streamlining the check-in experience for departing passengers. Powered through the Aer Lingus mobile app, the system enables travellers to tag and drop their checked bags in under two minutes, significantly reducing queue times. The service is available exclusively to Aer Lingus Regional customers and forms part of ongoing efforts to deliver a faster, more seamless airport journey.
Air China Extends Digital Retail Partnership with Datalex
Datalex has renewed its long-standing partnership with Air China for a further three years, reinforcing a collaboration that began in 2010. As part of the extension, Air China has transitioned to Datalex’s Stellex platform, adopting its advanced Shopping & Pricing capabilities to support the airline’s website, mobile apps and OTA flagship stores. The upgrade strengthens Air China’s push toward modern airline retailing by enhancing e-commerce performance, improving cost efficiency and enabling faster market responsiveness. Passengers are expected to benefit from a more transparent and flexible shopping experience as the airline deepens its digital transformation efforts.
Alliance Aviation and DAA Finalise Agreement on GA Terminal at Dublin Airport
Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) has reached an agreement to take over Alliance Aviation’s general aviation terminal at Dublin International Airport, a move formalised during the IBGAA Conference in County Kildare. The transfer will provide business and general aviation operators with more direct and convenient access to facilities located beside their aircraft stands, replacing the current need to route through the Platinum Services area near Terminal 1. Positioned adjacent to the Westlands Ramp, the terminal is expected to streamline movements and enhance the overall experience for GA and BizAv users at the airport.
ASG Deepens Collaboration with Irish Coast Guard Through SAR Training
ASG has completed its latest Search and Rescue Tasking & Refresher Course for the Irish Coast Guard, held in Galway from 25 to 28 November 2025. The training reinforces ASG’s ongoing commitment to strengthening Ireland’s national SAR capability through regular, high-quality instruction. Attendees had previously completed ASG’s full SATAC programme, and their participation in refresher training reflects a shared focus on maintaining the rigorous standards required for such a critical, safety-sensitive function.
Emerald Airlines Returns to Profit as McCarthy Guides Regional Carrier to Stability
Emerald Airlines, led by aviation veteran Conor McCarthy and operator of Aer Lingus Regional services, has sharply improved its financial performance as operations matured last year. Newly filed accounts show revenues rising to €201 million in 2024, up from €166.7 million the previous year, with the airline posting an operating profit of €9.6 million, reversing a €7.6 million loss in 2023. The turnaround reflects stronger route performance, operational stability and improved utilisation across the regional network.
Avolon Orders 100 CFM LEAP-1A Engines for New A320neo Fleet
Avolon has placed a firm order for 100 CFM LEAP-1A engines to power 50 incoming Airbus A320neo family aircraft, further deepening its long-standing partnership with CFM. Announced in Dubai, the deal supports Avolon’s continued investment in next-generation, fuel-efficient narrowbodies as global demand for lower-emission aircraft grows. The Dublin-based lessor already manages 99 A320neo family aircraft equipped with LEAP-1A engines and holds firm orders for an additional 163, underscoring its position as a major customer for the programme.
Cork Airport Expands European Hub Connectivity for Summer 2026
Cork Airport has unveiled a major uplift in its Summer 2026 schedule, significantly enhancing long-haul and global connectivity for passengers across the South of Ireland. The expansion brings increased frequencies from leading European hub carriers, giving travellers more options for seamless onward connections worldwide. Lufthansa will boost its Cork–Frankfurt service to five weekly flights, rising to six at peak summer, marking the airline’s second year of consecutive growth at the airport. SWISS, via Edelweiss, will also return earlier in the season with twice-weekly Zurich flights starting 31 March, linking passengers to an extensive European and long-haul network.
Michael O’Leary Urges Government to Accelerate Removal of Dublin Airport Passenger Cap
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has renewed calls for the Irish Government to expedite legislation to lift Dublin Airport’s passenger cap before the end of 2025. Speaking on Newstalk, O’Leary argued that the cap is constraining national aviation growth and limiting Ireland’s ability to compete for new routes and investment. He urged Taoiseach Micheál Martin to fast-track the removal process, framing it as essential for sustaining tourism, business connectivity and long-term airport development.
Tweet Picks
@ATWOnline #Aeromexico plans to expand its transatlantic network next summer, adding routes to Barcelona and Paris as the carrier deepens its European presence.
@ATWOnline Under the leadership of a new CEO, UK-based #LCC @easyJet is looking to technology to further strengthen operations, keep costs low and remain competitive in a sector that has become far more dominant in #Europe than when it launched 30 years ago.
@business The UK will allow Mayor of London Sadiq Khan and other local leaders to impose a "tourist tax" on overnight stays in English cities.
@eVTOLInsightsCzech Republic startup @ZuriVTOL has shared progress of its second technology demonstrator (TD 2.0), ahead of building its hybrid-electric tiltrotor aircraft. Flight testing with TD 2.0 is scheduled to begin in late 2026 or early 2027.
Video Picks
‘Everybody has a right to go on a holiday… everyone wants their slice of sunshine’ – Jet2 CEO
This interview features Jet2’s CEO discussing the enduring strength of the leisure travel market and why demand has remained resilient despite economic pressures. He highlights how customers continue to prioritise holidays, viewing them as essential rather than discretionary, and explains how Jet2 is aligning its strategy to serve this rising appetite for affordable sunshine breaks. The conversation also touches on capacity planning, customer expectations and the broader outlook for Europe’s leisure aviation sector.
How IAG is Leading the Way in Profitability and Customer Satisfaction
This segment explores how International Airlines Group (IAG) is balancing commercial performance with improved customer experience across its airline portfolio. It highlights the group’s disciplined approach to cost management, network optimisation and fleet investment, alongside a renewed focus on service quality and digital engagement. The video underscores how IAG’s strategy is driving stronger profitability while meeting rising passenger expectations in an increasingly competitive global market.
How Ryanair Is Embracing Technology and Premium Offers to Elevate Customer Experience
This video examines Ryanair’s push to enhance customer experience through targeted technology investments and an expanded suite of premium products. It outlines how the airline is using digital tools to streamline the journey, improve transparency and personalise engagement, while premium add-ons are boosting loyalty and ancillary revenue. The discussion highlights Ryanair’s shift toward a more experience-driven model as it sharpens its competitive edge across Europe.
Acumen’s Take
The second day of December reflects an industry moving with purpose as airlines, lessors and service providers align around efficiency, renewal and operational resilience. Fleet modernisation remains a defining theme, supported by strong leasing activity and continued investment in next-generation engines and aircraft. At the same time, airports and operators are sharpening their focus on safety, digital retail, and customer experience, signalling a broader shift toward long-term competitiveness rather than short-term recovery. Regional markets are strengthening, sustainability research is accelerating, and infrastructure constraints are shaping strategic decisions more than ever. Overall, the momentum points to a sector preparing for sustained growth in 2026, disciplined, data-driven, and increasingly future-focused.
