03 Dec 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 3rd 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-TEA Airbus A220-300 Delivered to ITA Airways
ITA Airways has taken delivery of a new Airbus A220-300, registered EI-TEA (c/n 55397), following its ferry flight from Montréal to Rome Fiumicino on 26 November 2025. The addition supports the carrier’s ongoing narrowbody fleet renewal strategy, bringing improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions and enhanced cabin comfort to its short- and medium-haul network. The A220-300’s versatility and operating economics play a key role in ITA’s plan to modernise its fleet and strengthen competitiveness across European routes.
ER-00012 Airbus A320 Delivered to Pelita Air Service
Pelita Air Service has received an Airbus A320-214, registered ER-00012 (c/n 5527), following its delivery to Chișinău on 21 November 2025. Formerly operating as VQ-CAT, the aircraft now transitions into Pelita’s fleet as the carrier continues to build capacity with reliable, mid-life narrowbodies. The A320’s induction supports Pelita’s network growth plans and provides additional flexibility for both domestic and regional operations.
Global Aviation News
flydubai Orders GEnx-1B Engines to Power Its First Widebody Fleet
flydubai has placed an order with GE Aerospace for 60 GEnx-1B engines to power its upcoming fleet of 30 Boeing 787-9 aircraft, marking a major step in the carrier’s transition into long-haul operations. Announced at the Dubai Airshow 2025, the deal also includes spare engines and a long-term services agreement to support reliability and operational performance as flydubai enters the widebody market for the first time. The partnership strengthens the airline’s growth trajectory by equipping its future network expansion with one of the industry’s most efficient long-range engine platforms.
Freeman Holdings Group Acquires Texas Aero at Waco Regional Airport
Freeman Holdings Group has purchased Texas Aero, the sole FBO at Waco Regional Airport (KACT), expanding its footprint across the US general aviation market. Texas Aero, long regarded as Central Texas’ leading FBO, brings more than 50 years of service experience and a reputation for comprehensive pilot, guest and aircraft support. The acquisition strengthens Freeman’s network capabilities and maintains continuity of high-quality services for operators using Waco Regional.
Saudi Arabia Advances Roadmap for General Aviation Growth
Saudi Arabia’s general aviation sector is preparing for significant expansion following the General Authority for Civil Aviation’s (GACA) decision to lift cabotage restrictions for foreign operators. The move opens the door to unprecedented business aviation opportunities but also highlights the substantial infrastructure and regulatory development still required. According to Awad Al-Salmi, GACA’s deputy CEO for economic policies and logistics, the forthcoming issuance of the first foreign operator certificate for domestic bizjet services is expected to boost competition, elevate service standards and accelerate the sector’s modernisation as Saudi Arabia positions itself as a regional GA hub.
Helvetic Airways Expands E2 Fleet with Order for Up to Eight E195-E2s
Helvetic Airways has strengthened its commitment to Embraer’s next-generation E2 platform with a firm order for three E195-E2 aircraft and purchase rights for five more, announced during the Dubai Airshow 2025. The deal supports the Swiss carrier’s strategy to operate a modern, fuel-efficient fleet aligned with sustainability goals. Deliveries will begin at the end of 2026, with each aircraft configured in a 134-seat single-class layout featuring new Recaro seating to enhance passenger comfort. The expanded E2 fleet positions Helvetic for improved operational efficiency and future network flexibility.
Lufthansa Group Confirms Intent to Participate in TAP Air Portugal Privatisation
Lufthansa Group has formally declared its interest in joining the privatisation process for 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, building toward a long-term strategic partnership designed to support TAP’s future competitiveness and stability as Portugal’s flag carrier. Lufthansa’s participation signals strong interest among major European airline groups in shaping TAP’s next phase of development and integration within broader network alliances.
Malaysia Aviation Group Names Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar as New President and Group CEO
Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) has announced that Datuk Captain Izham Ismail will retire as Group Managing Director on 31 January 2026 after more than 40 years with the organisation. As part of its succession strategy, MAG has appointed Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar (“Captain Nasa”) as the new President and Group Chief Executive Officer. Captain Izham, the longest-serving chief executive in the company’s history, led major financial restructuring and operational improvements that helped return the Group to profitability. With a strengthened foundation now in place, MAG will enter its next phase of growth and sustainability under Captain Nasa’s leadership.
New Pacific Airlines and beOnd Launch “beOnd America” Premium Leisure Partnership
New Pacific Airlines and beOnd have announced beOnd America, a new collaboration aimed at bringing the world’s first all-premium leisure airline experience to the US market. The partnership will introduce tailored long-haul services designed specifically for upscale leisure travellers, combining beOnd’s luxury-focused cabin product with New Pacific’s growing US network. The initiative reflects rising demand for high-comfort, experience-driven travel and positions both carriers to tap into a niche segment that blends premium service with leisure-focused route planning.
Norse Atlantic ASA Appoints Eivind Roald as New President and CEO
Norse Atlantic ASA has named Eivind Roald as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, succeeding founder Bjørn Tore Larsen with immediate effect. Roald brings over three decades of leadership experience across aviation, technology and commercial transformation, including senior roles at Hewlett-Packard, SAS and QNTM Group. His appointment signals the company’s intent to sharpen its strategic focus and accelerate the next phase of development in the long-haul, low-cost segment.
Pivot Airlines Secures Lease-Purchase Agreement for Dash 8-315
Pivot Airlines has entered a lease-purchase agreement with Avmax Group Inc. for a De Havilland Dash 8-315 (MSN 578), further strengthening its regional fleet strategy. The aircraft is currently undergoing heavy maintenance and modification at Avmax’s Calgary MRO facility and is expected to join Pivot’s fleet in late Q1 2026. The acquisition supports the airline’s plan to enhance reliability and capacity across its regional operations.
Irish Aviation News
Alliance Aviation Targets Expansion Opportunities in Saudi Arabia
Alliance Aviation is positioning itself for broader growth in Saudi Arabia following the opening of the first general aviation hangar at AlUla International Airport (OEAO). CEO Brendan McQuaid described the new facility as a strategic foothold for establishing a wider GA hub that could attract additional aviation businesses to the region. Speaking at the IBGAA Conference in Kildare, McQuaid noted that AlUla represents the starting point for Alliance’s ambitions in the kingdom, with plans to expand operations to other airports along Saudi Arabia’s west coast.
Milestone Aviation Signs Lease Agreements for Five Airbus H160s with Bristow Group
Milestone Aviation has finalised lease agreements with Bristow Group for five new Airbus H160 helicopters, strengthening its position as a leading global helicopter lessor. Four aircraft will be delivered in November 2025 to support Bristow’s offshore oil and gas operations in Nigeria, with a fifth scheduled for September 2026. CEO Pat Sheedy highlighted that Milestone is the first lessor to introduce the H160 into Bristow’s fleet, underscoring the company’s commitment to investing in advanced, fuel-efficient rotorcraft for mission-critical operations worldwide.
Northern Ireland Airports See Continued Traffic Decline in Q3 2025
The UK Civil Aviation Authority’s latest figures show another challenging quarter for Northern Ireland’s three airports,Belfast International, Belfast City and City of Derry. After a 2.2 percent year-on-year decline in Q2, overall traffic fell a further 2.9 percent in Q3, signalling ongoing pressure on regional connectivity. Belfast International recorded a 2.5 percent drop, while Belfast City faced a steeper 4.3 percent decline compared with 2024 levels. The results highlight persistent demand softness and competitive headwinds affecting the region’s principal gateways across the first nine months of 2025.
Phoenix Aviation Capital and AIP Capital Secure $592 Million Term Loan Facility
Phoenix Aviation Capital, together with AIP Capital, has announced the issuance of a $592 million term loan facility to support its next phase of growth. The financing will be used to repay existing warehouse debt and provide capital for future portfolio expansion. Based in Dublin and managed by AIP Capital, Phoenix continues to strengthen its position as a full-service aircraft lessor backed by major investment partners. The term loan underscores investor confidence in the company’s strategy and the resilience of the aircraft leasing sector.
Ryanair CEO Confirms Airbus Discussions for Lauda Fleet Renewal
Ryanair Group CEO Michael O’Leary has confirmed active talks with Airbus over a potential order to renew and expand the fleet of its Austrian subsidiary, Lauda. Speaking onboard a Boeing 737-8-200 on 25 November, O’Leary said he would “happily” sign an order for 50 Airbus aircraft, 25 earmarked for replacement and 25 for growth, should the right deal be reached. The discussions signal Ryanair’s willingness to diversify its fleet strategy for Lauda as the group evaluates long-term capacity needs and competitive positioning in the Central European market.
Shannon Aviation Museum Publishes Irish Air Corps Collection Online
The Shannon Aviation Museum has completed a major project to catalogue and digitise the Irish Air Corps Collection, making it publicly accessible for the first time through a dedicated website, www.irishaviationfoundation.ie. The initiative involved extensive archival work by the museum team and collaborators, supported by funding from The Heritage Council. The online collection offers a valuable resource for historians, researchers and aviation enthusiasts, preserving and showcasing an important part of Ireland’s aviation heritage.
Key Themes from the Aircraft Leasing Ireland Summit 2025
The Aircraft Leasing Ireland (ALI) Summit 2025 brought together more than 300 industry leaders, policymakers and airline executives for a day of discussion on maintaining Ireland’s dominance in the global leasing sector. Speakers highlighted the country’s pivotal role at the core of a market where over 60 percent of the world’s leased aircraft operate across more than 95 countries. With Dublin and Shannon serving as the industry’s primary hubs, the summit underscored the importance of regulatory stability, innovation and talent development in sustaining Ireland’s competitive edge. The event reinforced the strategic value of Ireland’s leasing ecosystem as global demand for flexible aircraft financing continues to grow.
Team Raven Leads 10-Aircraft Formation for Air-to-Air Showcase
A rare “Big Wing” formation of ten aircraft was assembled during repositioning flights from Weston Airport to Ballyboughal Airfield ahead of the Fingal Rush Air Display. The group featured six Vans RV-8s from Team Raven, two Boeing Stearmans from the AeroSuperBatic WingWalkers, Rich Goodwin’s Jet Pitts and Eddie Goggins’ CAP 232. Several formations were flown en route, providing a unique opportunity for air-to-air photography. The photoship, Vans RV-7 EI-HUM, was expertly flown by Gerry Humphreys, capturing the dynamic mixed-type formation in flight.
Tourism Ireland Releases November 2025 Situation & Outlook Analysis Report (SOAR)
Tourism Ireland has published its November 2025 SOAR report, providing an updated assessment of international travel trends and the outlook for Irish tourism. The analysis highlights steady demand across key inbound markets, though growth remains uneven due to varying economic conditions and currency pressures. Air connectivity continues to play a crucial role in sustaining recovery, with increased capacity on several European and long-haul routes supporting visitor flows. The report also notes that competitive pricing, strong brand visibility and ongoing collaboration with industry partners will be essential to maintaining momentum into 2026.
Tweet Picks
@HofmannAviation #CEOinterview with Michael O’Leary from the Ryanair Group - Michael confirmed that he is in talks with Airbus to renew the Airbus A320 fleet of group member Lauda. Soon at @AviationWeek.
@RollsRoyce We’re proud to introduce the Trent 1000 XE, engineered for three times longer time on wing and enhanced durability with a redesigned high-pressure turbine blade delivering a 40% increase in cooling flow.
@SimonCalder World's busiest runway, London Gatwick, will be even busier from summer 2026 when Jet2 launches to dozens of Mediterranean and Atlantic destinations in competition with easyJet, BA, Tui and Wizz Air. (Ryanair is small at Gatwick – Ireland & Alicante only.)
@SpaethFlies BREAKING @lufthansa will paint six aircraft of different types in its anniversary livery celebrating its centennial in April 2026. Lead by #boeing787 D-ABPU, until fall 26 there will be an #A380, #boeing748 as well as @Airbus types A350-900, -1000 and #A320 #avgeek.
Video Picks
Donal Moriarty of Aer Lingus at Spain Talks: Caring for the Future Conference
In this session, Aer Lingus COO Donal Moriarty discusses the airline’s long-term approach to sustainability, operational resilience and future planning. He outlines how Aer Lingus is adapting its fleet, processes and partnerships to meet emerging environmental expectations while safeguarding performance and reliability. The conversation highlights the importance of coordinated industry action as airlines navigate regulatory shifts, decarbonisation pathways and evolving passenger needs.
Keynote CEO Interview with Willie Walsh, Director General of IATA, at the World Aviation Festival 2025
This keynote conversation features Willie Walsh discussing the global aviation sector’s most pressing challenges and priorities as the industry moves into 2026. He reflects on capacity constraints, regulatory pressures and the financial realities facing airlines, while emphasising the need for coordinated progress on sustainability and infrastructure. Walsh also outlines IATA’s role in supporting carriers through market uncertainty and driving initiatives that enhance industry competitiveness and operational efficiency.
Scott Kirby – United Airlines CEO on The Katie Miller Podcast (Episode 15)
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby discusses the strategic shifts shaping the airline’s next phase of growth, from fleet modernisation and operational reliability to workforce planning and technology adoption. He offers candid insights into the challenges facing major US carriers, including capacity pressures, infrastructure gaps and sustainability commitments. The conversation provides a clear look at how United is positioning itself for long-term resilience while responding to evolving traveller expectations.
Acumen’s Take
The themes emerging today point to an industry balancing renewal with disciplined long-term planning. Airlines and lessors continue to invest in efficient fleets, diversified financing and modernised operations, signalling confidence in the next cycle. General aviation markets are opening up, regulatory systems are evolving and sustainability remains a central thread across strategy, infrastructure and leadership changes. At the same time, pressures around capacity, regional connectivity and talent reinforce the need for coordinated, data-driven decision-making. Overall, momentum is steady, with stakeholders positioning themselves for growth grounded in operational resilience, smarter capital allocation and forward-looking partnerships.
