31 Oct 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 31st October 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
EirTrade Aviation Redelivers Two Airbus A330-300s
EirTrade Aviation has announced the successful redelivery of two GE CF6-powered Airbus A330-300 aircraft (MSNs 602 and 607) previously leased to a major Asian flag carrier. The aircraft were managed on behalf of Scissortail Aviation International Leasing 1 Limited and inducted into EirTrade Aviation Maintenance at Ireland West Airport for part-out. Both engines will be removed in serviceable condition and added to EirTrade’s leasing pool, supporting strong global demand for A330 components. The project highlights EirTrade’s growing expertise in widebody asset management and end-of-life solutions within Ireland’s thriving aviation ecosystem.
Flydubai Takes Delivery of 10th Boeing 737 MAX via Shannon
Flydubai has received its tenth new Boeing 737 MAX 8, registered A6-FPG (MSN 61019), marking another milestone in the airline’s ongoing fleet expansion. The aircraft departed Boeing Field on 9 October, arriving at Shannon Airport the following morning for a brief stop before continuing to Dubai on 11 October. The delivery through Shannon underscores Ireland’s strategic role as a key transit and delivery hub for aircraft movements between North America and the Middle East.
IAG Highlights Aer Lingus’s Transatlantic Growth Powered by Airbus A321XLR
International Airlines Group (IAG) has spotlighted Aer Lingus’s rapid transatlantic expansion, driven by the operational versatility of the Airbus A321XLR. Since 2023, Aer Lingus has launched eight new nonstop routes from Dublin including Cleveland, Denver, Las Vegas, Indianapolis, Nashville, Cancun, Minneapolis–St. Paul, and Raleigh–Durham. The A321XLR’s extended range and fuel efficiency have been central to the airline’s strategy, enabling profitable long-haul operations from Ireland to secondary U.S. destinations while strengthening Dublin’s position as a key transatlantic gateway within the IAG network.
Aircraft Update
N780CK Boeing 777-36N(F) c/n 32787 Kalitta Air Delivered to Oscoda 21/10/25 (ex VQ-BZJ)
Kalitta Air has taken delivery of a Boeing 777-36N(F), registered N780CK (MSN 32787), which was ferried to Oscoda, Michigan, on 21 October 2025 following its re-registration from VQ-BZJ. The widebody freighter strengthens Kalitta’s long-haul cargo capacity and supports the airline’s global logistics operations. The addition aligns with Kalitta’s ongoing fleet expansion strategy focused on enhancing payload efficiency and meeting rising e-commerce and express freight demand.
2-ISTS Boeing 737-48E(F) c/n 25773 Skyway Airlines Registered at Shannon 21/10/25 (ex EI-STS)
Skyway Airlines has registered a Boeing 737-48E Freighter, 2-ISTS (MSN 25773), at Shannon on 21 October 2025 following its re-registration from EI-STS. The aircraft’s transition reflects Skyway’s continued fleet development within the regional cargo sector, enhancing its short- and medium-haul freight capacity. Shannon Airport’s growing prominence as a hub for aircraft registration and transition activity underscores Ireland’s strategic role in global aviation logistics.
Global Aviation News
Abra CEO Notes Improvement in Narrowbody Delivery Timelines
Abra Group CEO has confirmed that narrowbody aircraft delivery schedules are showing signs of recovery, with manufacturers gradually aligning production output to projected timelines. The improvement marks a positive shift following years of supply chain constraints and production delays, supporting Abra’s fleet growth strategy across its airline portfolio in Latin America.
Airbus and Boeing Executives Call for Expanded Supplier Base
Senior executives from Airbus and Boeing have emphasised the urgent need to strengthen and diversify the global aviation supply chain, noting that current supplier capacity remains insufficient to meet rising production and aftermarket demands.
Air Serbia and airBaltic Expand Cooperation with A220-300 Wet Lease Agreement
Air Serbia and airBaltic have strengthened their partnership through a new two-year wet lease agreement under which airBaltic will operate Airbus A220-300 aircraft on behalf of Air Serbia from 1 November 2025. The modern 148-seat A220-300s will enhance Air Serbia’s operational flexibility and efficiency, supporting its network expansion during the upcoming seasons
Air Atlanta, Fly Meta, and Hungary Airlines Partner on 777-300ERSF Cargo Project
Air Atlanta, Fly Meta, and Hungary Airlines have announced a strategic collaboration centred on the Boeing 777-300ERSF, aiming to enhance regional and cross-border e-commerce logistics. The partnership marks a major milestone in advancing next-generation widebody freighter operations, reflecting growing demand for efficient air cargo solutions across global trade corridors.
American Airlines Appoints Nathaniel Pieper as Chief Commercial Officer
American Airlines has announced the appointment of Nathaniel (Nat) Pieper as its new Chief Commercial Officer, effective 3 November 2025. Currently serving as CEO of the oneworld alliance, Pieper will bring extensive industry experience to his new role and report directly to American Airlines CEO Robert Isom, guiding the carrier’s commercial strategy and global growth initiatives.
Brand USA Unveils “America the Beautiful” Global Tourism Campaign
Brand USA has launched its most ambitious marketing initiative to date — America the Beautiful during the seventh annual Brand USA Travel Week U.K. and Europe in London. The campaign aims to showcase the diversity and vibrancy of U.S. destinations to international travellers, strengthening tourism ties with over 20 countries. The initiative reflects Brand USA’s renewed focus on driving global visitation and economic impact through immersive storytelling and strategic international partnerships.
Emirates Earns Gold Tier in JFK’s Fly Quiet Programme
Emirates has achieved Gold Tier recognition in New York JFK Airport’s 2024 Fly Quiet Programme, the only airline to receive this honour. With a top score of 92.9, the carrier outperformed all other participating airlines. The programme, managed by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, rewards operators committed to reducing aircraft noise through quieter fleets, improved flight procedures, and preferential runway use, reaffirming Emirates’ dedication to sustainable and community-conscious operations.
GOAA Unveils Strategic Vision to Enhance Customer Experience at Orlando Airports
The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) has introduced a new decade-long strategic vision for Orlando International (MCO) and Orlando Executive (ORL) airports. Focused on elevating customer experience and fostering innovation, the plan is built around four pillars — Customer Experience, Community, Infrastructure, and People. The initiative underscores GOAA’s commitment to positioning Orlando’s airports as leading global hubs of connectivity, service excellence, and regional economic growth.
Irish Aviation News
ABRA Group to Lease Up to Seven Airbus A330-900neos from Avolon
Abra Group Limited, the parent company of GOL Linhas Aéreas and Avianca, has reached an agreement with Dublin-based Avolon Aerospace Leasing for the lease of five Airbus A330-900neo aircraft, with deliveries scheduled for 2026. Additionally, a Letter of Intent has been signed for up to two more aircraft. The deal supports Abra’s ongoing fleet expansion and modernisation strategy, enhancing efficiency and long-haul capability across its network.
Airport in Focus: Dublin Airport
Dublin Airport, operated by the Dublin Airport Authority (daa), serves as Ireland’s primary international gateway and a key access point for passengers travelling to and from Northern Ireland. As one of Europe’s fastest-growing airports, it continues to strengthen its role as a major transatlantic and European hub, supported by ongoing infrastructure expansion and strategic route development. Dublin’s connectivity and operational scale position it as a cornerstone of Ireland’s aviation and economic growth.
IAA Launches MySRS Digital Aircraft Registration Platform
The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) has announced the launch of its new MySRS Aircraft Registration digital platform, going live on 28 October 2025. The system will fully replace paper applications, offering streamlined submission, communication, and payment processes. MySRS enhances efficiency with faster processing times, real-time updates, secure digital communications, and electronically signed certificates—reflecting the IAA’s commitment to modernising aviation services and promoting sustainability.
Major Development Planned for Ireland West Airport Site
Mayo County Council has voiced strong support for the proposed Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) at Ireland West Airport Knock, describing it as a transformative project that could “open up the county” and drive long-term economic growth. The SDZ is highlighted in Mayo’s draft Economic Development Plan as one of the region’s most significant opportunities. Councillors emphasised, however, that the project will require substantial multimillion-euro investment to achieve its ambitious vision.
Record-Breaking Attendance at Pilot Careers Live 2025 in Dublin
The Convention Centre Dublin hosted one of the most successful editions of Pilot Careers Live 2025, drawing over 1,000 aspiring pilots and industry professionals. Organised by Seager Publishing, the event featured top exhibitors including Ryanair, Aer Lingus, Loganair, the Irish Air Corps, and major Irish ATOs such as National Flight Centre, Atlantic Flight Training Academy, ASG, Airline Flight Academy, and Simtech. Attendees explored training pathways, recruitment opportunities, and future career prospects, underscoring Ireland’s growing role in aviation education and pilot training.
Rolls-Royce Launches LessorCare+ in Partnership with Avolon
Rolls-Royce has unveiled LessorCare+, an enhanced version of its innovative LessorCare programme, developed in collaboration with Avolon. The new platform offers expanded insights and support for aircraft lessors, covering key areas such as fleet management, technical expertise, transitions, and transactions. LessorCare+ strengthens Rolls-Royce’s commitment to improving transparency, efficiency, and value creation within the leasing ecosystem.
Ryanair Expands Winter Network to Jordan with 18 Routes Linking Amman to 12 EU Countries
Ryanair has unveiled a record Winter 2025 schedule for Amman, adding 18 routes and offering over 300,000 seats connecting Jordan to 12 EU countries, including Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. The expansion, supported by the Jordanian Government’s pro-tourism policies, underscores Ryanair’s commitment to boosting inbound tourism and local economic growth, reinforcing Amman’s position as a leading Middle Eastern travel hub.
Ryanair’s EX-YU Routes Affected by Vienna Cuts
Ryanair is reducing operations at Vienna Airport, cutting several routes and withdrawing three of its nineteen based aircraft in response to rising operating costs. The airline has urged Austria to scrap its aviation tax and lower airport and ATC fees, which it cites as barriers to competitiveness. The cuts will impact several routes to the former Yugoslav markets, following Wizz Air’s earlier exit from Vienna. Despite recovery to 98% of 2019 traffic levels, Austria’s aviation sector continues to face cost pressures.
Ryanair ‘Likely’ to Operate London Flights from Waterford Airport
Ryanair Group CEO Michael O’Leary has confirmed it is “likely” the airline will launch a limited number of weekly London services from Waterford Airport once its €30 million redevelopment is completed. The privately funded project, recently approved by Waterford City and County Council, includes a runway extension and major infrastructure upgrades, marking a key step toward restoring commercial flights to Ireland’s southeast for the first time since 2016.
Tweet Picks
@Bombardier It's official! Today at #NBAA2025, we unveiled BOND as our customer behind June’s landmark $1.7B order and first-of-its-kind service agreement.
@CAPA_Aviation "You're only as good as your last flight." Qantas Domestic CEO Markus Svensson reveals the untold challenges of restarting operations post-COVID. "It's relentless - but that's why we love this industry."
@CowenBarry Ireland punches above our weight in aircraft leasing, like we do with many other sectors. When meeting with Aircraft Leasing Ireland yesterday, we discussed the issue of competitiveness & also the need to ensure the industry has a strong voice in future trade deals.
@eoghancorry The two Belfast airports handled 914,125 passengers in August, down 2.6pc on 2024 and up 2.5pc on pre-pandemic. Rolling annual was 8,952,813, up 1.8pc on 2024.
Video Picks
Charting the Future of Transatlantic Travel | Eduardo Santander & Rafat Ali
In this insightful discussion, Eduardo Santander, Executive Director of the European Travel Commission, and Rafat Ali, CEO of Skift, explore the evolving dynamics of transatlantic travel. The conversation highlights shifting traveller preferences, sustainable growth strategies, and the impact of digital innovation on connectivity between Europe and North America. The session underscores the continued resilience of transatlantic tourism and its pivotal role in driving global recovery and collaboration.
Eddie Wilson, CEO Ryanair DAC – World Aviation Festival 2025
At the World Aviation Festival 2025, Eddie Wilson, CEO of Ryanair DAC, discusses the airline’s ongoing expansion strategy, digital transformation, and sustainability initiatives. Wilson shares insights into Ryanair’s approach to maintaining cost leadership while investing in greener technologies and enhancing the passenger experience. His remarks reflect Ryanair’s continued focus on innovation, operational efficiency, and shaping the future of low-cost aviation in Europe.
Southwest CEO on Q4 Guidance
In this CNBC interview, Bob Jordan, CEO of Southwest Airlines, discusses the carrier’s Q4 financial outlook, operational performance, and plans for 2026. He addresses ongoing cost management efforts, fleet utilisation, and demand trends heading into the holiday season. Jordan also outlines Southwest’s strategy to sustain profitability while enhancing reliability and customer satisfaction amid a competitive U.S. domestic market.
Acumen’s Take
The global aviation sector continues to show steady resilience, defined by strategic expansion, digital transformation, and a renewed focus on sustainable operations. Airlines are aligning fleet modernisation with evolving passenger and cargo demand, while lessors and OEMs are strengthening partnerships to address supply chain stability. Ireland’s aviation ecosystem remains central to this growth, supporting innovation in leasing, MRO, and regulatory development. As connectivity deepens worldwide, collaboration, technology adoption, and disciplined execution will remain key to sustaining momentum through 2026.
