02 Sep 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 2nd September 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
Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Emirates' Dublin Expansion
The Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce (AICC) has welcomed Emirates’ decision to add a third daily Dublin–Dubai service from 26 October 2025. Operated by a Boeing 777-300ER with First Class private suites, Business Class lie-flat seats, and 304 Economy seats, the new frequency will significantly expand connectivity for Irish businesses via Dubai International Airport. AICC highlighted the move as a vital boost for trade, offering faster links to key global markets such as Singapore, Sydney, and Kuala Lumpur, while also enhancing Ireland’s export potential with greater cargo capacity.
Blue Islands Adds Christmas Connectivity Between Jersey and Dublin
Blue Islands has announced special Christmas and New Year services between Jersey and Dublin to meet seasonal demand. The carrier will operate four flights on 23 and 27 December 2025, 30 December, and 3 January 2026, using its 72-seat ATR72-600 aircraft. While the airline typically provides up to three weekly services on the route during summer, this marks the first time it will operate the Jersey–Dublin connection over the festive period, offering enhanced travel options for leisure and visiting friends and relatives traffic.
Shannon Handles 7th Flydubai 737 MAX Delivery
Flydubai has expanded its fleet with the delivery of a seventh Boeing 737 MAX 8, registered A6-FQJ (MSN 61033). The aircraft departed Boeing Field, Seattle, on 8 August and arrived in Shannon the following day for a technical stop before continuing on to Dubai International Airport, where it landed on 10 August. The delivery highlights Shannon Airport’s continued role as a key technical hub for transatlantic aircraft movements, supporting the growth of carriers such as Flydubai in strengthening global fleet operations.
Aircraft Update
PS-LHE Airbus A320-271N c/n 8877 Latam Brasil Delivered to São Carlos 16/08/25 ex VT-IZW
LATAM Brasil has taken delivery of an Airbus A320-271N, registered PS-LHE (MSN 8877), which arrived in São Carlos on 16 August 2025. Formerly operating as VT-IZW, the aircraft joins LATAM’s fleet as part of its ongoing renewal programme, aimed at enhancing efficiency and supporting both domestic and regional operations with next-generation, fuel-efficient aircraft.
HS-SXA Airbus A320-232 c/n 5089 Thai SmartLynx Delivered to Bangkok 22/08/25 ex 2-VSLP
Thai SmartLynx has received an Airbus A320-232, registered HS-SXA (MSN 5089), delivered to Bangkok on 22 August 2025. Previously operating as 2-VSLP, the aircraft strengthens the carrier’s capacity in the Thai market, supporting both domestic and regional services as part of its expanding narrowbody operations.
Global Aviation News
Iceland’s Play Delays Plan to Transition to ACMI
Icelandic low-cost carrier PLAY has postponed its planned shift to a wet lease–focused ACMI model, originally set for October 2025, as it seeks new capital and a broader strategic reset. Once positioned as an ambitious transatlantic operator, the airline has struggled with mounting financial losses, including a €61 million deficit in 2024—nearly double the prior year’s. CEO Einar Örn Ólafsson acknowledged the need for a new direction, citing weak transatlantic demand, intensifying competition, and adverse exchange rates as key pressures driving the rethink.
Thailand’s Tourism Minister Proposes Subsidised €93 Air Tickets to Help Boost Annual Numbers to 35m
Thailand’s Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong has proposed a THB700 million (€18 million) programme to subsidise domestic flights for international visitors, aiming to lift annual arrivals to 35 million. Backed by six airlines, including Thai AirAsia and Bangkok Airways, the initiative would provide up to THB1,750 (€46) for one-way tickets and THB3,500 (€93) for return flights. The scheme is expected to encourage at least 200,000 tourists to explore secondary destinations across Thailand, strengthening regional tourism and supporting the industry’s recovery.
United Airlines Extends Greenland Flights into Summer 2026
United Airlines has confirmed it will continue serving Greenland into Summer 2026, retaining Nuuk (GOH) on its seasonal schedule following the success of its inaugural Newark–Nuuk route this year. Operated by Boeing 737 MAX 8s, United remains the only carrier offering nonstop service between the U.S. and Greenland. The 2025 programme includes 60 roundtrips across June to September, with strong demand prompting the airline to extend the service for a second year. Details of the 2026 schedule will be announced later, as United strengthens its position in connecting U.S. travellers to one of the world’s most remote destinations.
Universal Aviation London-Stansted Earns Highest Global Safety Accreditation
Universal Aviation London-Stansted has achieved Stage 3 accreditation under the International Standard for Business Aircraft Handling (IS-BAH), the highest global benchmark for safety and ground handling in business aviation. This milestone places the UK flagship location among fewer than 10% of IS-BAH-registered ground handlers worldwide to earn the elite recognition. Universal Aviation UK first attained Stage 1 accreditation in 2017, followed by Stage 2 in 2021, underscoring its continued commitment to operational excellence and safety leadership.
US FAA to Engage Boeing in ‘Table-Top Exercises’ Before Lifting 38-Aircraft Production Cap
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced it will require Boeing to undergo scenario-based “table-top exercises” before considering any relaxation of the current production cap of 38 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft per month. FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford emphasised that the measure is intended to reinforce safety oversight in light of recent high-profile incidents affecting the manufacturer. The move reflects the regulator’s cautious approach to balancing Boeing’s production ambitions with the need to restore confidence in the MAX programme and ensure robust safety standards are maintained.
USA’s Spirit Airlines Continues to Fight for Future After Troubled Exit from Chapter 11
Spirit Airlines is working with financial adviser PJT Partners and consulting firms FTI and Seabury Airline Strategy Group as it navigates a challenging exit from Chapter 11 bankruptcy. To stabilise operations, the carrier secured a USD 275 million revolving credit facility maturing in September 2026 and revised its credit card processing agreement with US Bank National Association, extending it through 2027.
Wizz Air Targets Corporate Travel with Travelfusion Deal
Wizz Air has entered the corporate travel market through a new partnership with airline content aggregator Travelfusion, marking its first such agreement. The deal will expand access to the carrier’s fares and services for travel management companies (TMCs) and online booking tools (OBTs), enabling greater visibility and adoption within the business travel sector. With the content now live on Travelfusion’s network, the Hungary-based low-cost airline is positioning itself to diversify revenue streams and broaden its customer base beyond leisure travellers.
Irish Aviation News
Ryanair Says Boeing to Deliver 25 Aircraft by October
Ryanair has confirmed it will receive 25 new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft by October 2025, ahead of the original spring 2026 schedule. Group CEO Michael O’Leary said the accelerated deliveries will allow the airline to increase flight offerings across its network. Boeing, still working to stabilise production following a high-profile panel incident in early 2024, has impressed Ryanair with the quality of its latest output, according to O’Leary. The move provides Ryanair with timely capacity to meet robust demand heading into the winter season.
Shannon Makes Top 10 for Private Jet-Setters
Shannon Airport has been ranked among the top 10 destinations worldwide for private jet travellers, making it Ireland’s most popular airport for celebrity and high-net-worth arrivals. A study by premium travel agency Vacation Into Premium analysed the movements of 53 global celebrities, including Bill Gates, Kylie Jenner, Tom Cruise, and Elon Musk, and found Shannon handled more private jet landings than any other Irish airport in 2024. The findings highlight Shannon’s appeal as a western gateway for luxury travel, further cementing its role in Ireland’s aviation landscape.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel Policy Roadmap an Important Step Forward – Irish Aircraft Leasing Sector
Aircraft Leasing Ireland (ALI), the Ibec group representing Ireland’s aircraft leasing industry, has welcomed the publication of the country’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Policy Roadmap. ALI noted that SAF offers a tangible near-term pathway to cutting greenhouse gas emissions, while lessors are already investing in research and technologies to support aviation’s net zero ambitions by 2050.
The Crown Jewel and the Ghost Estate: Aviation vs Section 110 in the IFSC
In a recent column for The Currency, aviation analyst Joe Gill described aviation leasing as the “crown jewel” of Ireland’s economic model, underpinned by an extensive network of global aircraft tax treaties. With Irish lessors managing more than 30% of the worldwide fleet, he argued that the sector has cemented Ireland’s dominance in global leasing. Gill also outlined a series of policy proposals aimed at strengthening Ireland’s competitive position further, while cautioning against the risks posed by unfavourable fiscal changes such as Section 110 structures. The piece underscored both the scale and strategic importance of aviation leasing to the Irish economy.
Post Korean Airline Merger Government Urges Fresh Routes in Ireland and Denmark
Korean Air has finalized its long-awaited acquisition of Asiana Airlines, bringing an end to Asiana’s 36 years of independent operation. The KRW 1.8 trillion ($1.3 billion) deal, closed with a final payment of KRW 800 billion ($559 million), consolidates a 63.9% stake and elevates Korean Air into the ranks of the world’s top 10 airlines. Following the merger, the South Korean government has urged the enlarged carrier to expand international connectivity, particularly by developing new routes to underserved markets such as Ireland and Denmark, in order to maximise the strategic benefits of the consolidation.
Ulster Aviation Society Open Days in September
The Ulster Aviation Society will again participate in the European Heritage Open Days (EHOD) on 13–14 September 2025, offering free public access to its two authentic Second World War aircraft hangars. Following a record-breaking 7,000 visitors in 2024 making it one of Northern Ireland’s largest EHOD attractions—the event aims to highlight the site’s cultural and historical significance. This year’s theme, “Architectural Heritage: Past Structures, Future Connections,” resonates strongly with the society’s mission, showcasing both aviation heritage and its educational value to the wider community.
“We Will Keep Backing Big Hubs Where Demand Is Strong” – Ryanair DAC CEO Eddie Wilson
Ryanair is set to cut nearly one million seats from Spain’s regional airports this winter, while reinforcing capacity at major hubs including Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga, the Canaries, and the Balearic Islands. CEO Eddie Wilson stated that the airline will continue to back markets where demand remains strong, even as smaller airports often in so-called “empty Spain”, face reduced connectivity. The move follows Aena’s decision to raise airport charges by 6.5% from 2026, pushing the per-passenger cost to €11.03, the highest in a decade according to Ryanair.
Tweet Picks
@ClimbingFast Did you know? 30–40% of business aviation destinations are places commercial airlines don’t serve. That means business aviation connects people, communities and opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach.
@ClimbingFast Running on 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel, this engine represents a key step in reducing lifecycle emissions and advancing the aviation industry’s commitment to long-term sustainability goal.
@eoghancorry Overall Irish inbound visitors numbers were down 1.4pc on 2024 and 44pc on pre pandemic according to July CSO figures.
@eoghancorry In contrast, Ireland outbound trips for January to June are estimated by the CSO are up 12.9pc on 2024 and 66.4pc on pre pandemic. Dublin airport figures for July were up 6.9pc on 2024 and 9.4pc on pre-pandemic. Cork airport was up 15.5pc on 2024 and 27.4pc ahead of pre-pandemic.
Video Picks
Airline Travel Soars Despite Cost-of-Living Crunch, Says Qantas CEO
In this video, Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson discusses how strong passenger demand is continuing to drive airline travel, even amid a cost-of-living squeeze for consumers. She highlights the resilience of leisure and business markets, noting how network expansion and product upgrades are positioning Qantas for sustained growth. The conversation provides insight into how airlines are adapting to economic pressures while maintaining momentum in fleet renewal and customer experience.
Airport CEO Discusses Upcoming Projects
In this interview, an airport CEO outlines a series of upcoming development projects designed to enhance capacity, efficiency, and passenger experience. The discussion covers planned infrastructure upgrades, sustainability initiatives, and long-term investment priorities to future-proof operations. The video provides a clear perspective on how airports are positioning themselves to meet rising demand while adapting to evolving industry and environmental expectations.
Air Travel Growth Below Expectations, Says Pittsburgh Airport CEO
In this video, the CEO of Pittsburgh International Airport reflects on air travel demand trends, noting that growth has fallen short of earlier expectations. He discusses the challenges posed by shifting passenger behaviour, competitive pressures, and broader economic conditions that continue to weigh on recovery. The interview also highlights the airport’s strategies to stimulate traffic, including route development efforts and investment in facilities aimed at strengthening long-term connectivity.
Acumen’s Take
This edition highlights how aviation continues to balance immediate operational pressures with long-term strategic goals. Airlines, airports, and lessors are navigating complex market realities through innovation, partnerships, and careful capacity management. Sustainability remains firmly on the agenda, with policy roadmaps and industry initiatives shaping investment decisions. At the same time, regulatory oversight and financial resilience are key themes as stakeholders position themselves for stability and growth. The sector’s adaptability and forward-looking approach reinforce its critical role in driving global connectivity and economic progress.
