03 Feb 2026
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 3rd February 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:
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IrishAero News
Cork Airport hosts Air Calédonie ATR 72-600
Cork Airport welcomed an unusual visitor on 23 December 2025 as Air Calédonie’s ATR 72-600, registered F-OZNO, arrived from far outside its typical South Pacific operating environment. Built in 2017 and formerly registered as F-WWEH, the aircraft is part of the carrier’s turboprop fleet serving New Caledonia. The visit highlights ongoing fleet optimisation activity, with Air Calédonie confirming the sale of surplus aircraft as a cash-preservation measure amid reduced traffic levels and scaled-back operations.
Dublin Airport Hosts Silk Way West Boeing 747-400F
Dublin Airport saw one of its most notable cargo movements of the winter season with the arrival of a Silk Way West Airlines Boeing 747-400F on St Stephen’s Day. The aircraft, registered 4K-SW888 and operating as flight AZQ1251, arrived from Baku at 13:07 before continuing onward to Shannon later that afternoon. The rotation underlines Ireland’s continued role as a strategic cargo waypoint for long-haul freighter operators, with Silk Way West utilising both Dublin and Shannon as part of its established European operating pattern.
Jettime Operates Selected Finnair Helsinki–Dublin Services
Jettime A/S has extended its partnership with Finnair under the carriers’ first full-year ACMI agreement, covering operations from winter 2025 through October 2026. The Danish operator will provide two 189-seat Boeing 737-800 aircraft to support Finnair’s short-haul network, including services between Helsinki and Dublin. Based in Copenhagen, Jettime will deploy the aircraft with a dedicated flight deck and cabin crew stationed in Helsinki, reinforcing Finnair’s network resilience and capacity flexibility across key European routes.
Aircraft Update
SP-RNM Boeing 737-8AS Registered to Buzz
A Boeing 737-8AS, registered SP-RNM (c/n 33573), has been registered to Buzz following its entry onto the Polish register on 20 January 2026. The aircraft was previously registered as EI-DHC and reflects continued fleet optimisation activity within the Ryanair Group, as aircraft are repositioned across operating subsidiaries to align with network deployment and capacity requirements.
SP-RNN Boeing 737-8AS Registered to Buzz
A Boeing 737-8AS, registered SP-RNN (c/n 33588), has been registered to Buzz following its entry onto the Polish register at Nuremberg on 21 January 2026. The aircraft was previously registered as EI-DLF and forms part of ongoing intra-group fleet movements within the Ryanair Group, supporting capacity allocation and operational flexibility across its European short-haul network.
SP-RNR Boeing 737-8AS Registered to Buzz
A Boeing 737-8AS, registered SP-RNR (c/n 34980), has been registered to Buzz following its entry onto the Polish register at Nuremberg on 14 January 2026. The aircraft was previously registered as EI-ENC and reflects continued fleet reallocation within the Ryanair Group, as aircraft are transitioned between operating units to support network planning, utilisation levels, and seasonal capacity requirements.
Global Aviation News
AB CarVal and Investec Launch New Aviation Financing Platform
AB CarVal and Investec have launched a new commercial aviation financing platform focused on providing secured, asset-backed lending solutions to airlines and aviation leasing companies. Under the arrangement, Investec will act as exclusive originator and loan servicer, while also co-investing alongside funds managed by AB CarVal. The platform is expected to build a diversified portfolio of aviation loans, supporting fleet funding, liquidity management, and broader financing requirements as demand for alternative capital sources across the global aviation sector continues to expand.
Airbus Dominates Single-Aisle Sales as Boeing Wins with Widebodies
Airbus continues to strengthen its lead in the single-aisle market, with the A320neo family holding a clear majority of global orders as Boeing’s 737 MAX programme remains in second place. According to industry data, Airbus accounts for 54% of A320neo family orders, rising to 58% when the A220 is included, reflecting sustained airline preference for higher-capacity narrowbodies such as the A321neo. Boeing, while trailing in single-aisle share, has maintained stronger momentum in the widebody segment, underscoring an increasingly polarised market where Airbus dominates short- and medium-haul fleet decisions while Boeing focuses growth on long-haul aircraft programmes.
AEI Announces Second B737-800SF Freighter Conversion for Hainan Airlines
Aeronautical Engineers, Inc. has confirmed the commencement of a second Boeing 737-800SF freighter conversion originally ordered by Hainan Airlines, with modification work starting on 5 January. The aircraft, MSN 32603, is being converted by Grand China Aviation Maintenance under AEI’s programme, with operational responsibility now transitioning to Tianjin Air Cargo to support its expanding cargo network. The development highlights continued demand for narrowbody freighter conversions in China, as operators seek flexible, medium-capacity lift to serve growing regional and express cargo markets.
AELF Secures $355m in New Financing to Support Growth Strategy
Aircraft Engine Lease Finance Inc. has closed 2025 with US$355 million in new committed capital and term financings, strengthening its funding base to support strategic growth and fleet expansion. The financing was secured from a diversified group of lenders including Investec, Absa Group, Merchants Bank, and Natixis, reflecting continued lender appetite for mid-life aircraft assets. AELF said the capital positions the lessor to pursue disciplined investment opportunities through 2026, targeting assets with strong value-creation potential amid sustained demand for efficient, in-service aircraft.
Bombardier Global 8000 Receives EASA Certification
Bombardier has announced that its flagship Global 8000 business jet has received certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), completing certification by all major regulators. The aircraft had previously been certified by Transport Canada in November 2025 and by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in December 2025, and it entered service in December 2025.
Brussels Airport Launches EU “Balanced Approach” on Noise and Growth
Brussels Airport has formally launched the European “Balanced Approach” procedure, aiming to establish a legally sound and coherent operational framework that allows sustainable growth while reducing environmental and noise impacts. The move follows the annulment of the airport’s environmental permit in July 2025, after authorities imposed strict operating restrictions without first applying the EU-mandated procedure.
Capital A Completes Aviation Business Disposal to AirAsia X
Capital A has completed the disposal of its aviation business to AirAsia X, bringing to a close a six-year restructuring process and marking a strategic reset for the group. The transaction was settled through the issuance of new AirAsia X shares to Capital A and its shareholders via a dividend-in-specie, alongside AirAsia X assuming RM3.8 billion of intercompany liabilities. The deal consolidates the AirAsia aviation businesses under AirAsia X, simplifying group structure and positioning the airline platform for its next phase as the newly issued shares prepare for listing on Bursa Malaysia.
Emirates and GAMECO Strengthen Heavy Maintenance Alliance
Emirates and GAMECO have signed new multi-year agreements extending their long-standing collaboration on heavy maintenance support for the airline’s Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 fleets. The partnership, which began in 2023 with a dedicated A380 nose-to-tail maintenance line in Guangzhou, has delivered strong operational outcomes and has since been expanded to include Boeing 777 heavy maintenance from April 2025. The agreements further reinforce Emirates’ strategy of securing long-term, high-capacity MRO partnerships to support the reliability and utilisation of its widebody fleet.
Wizz Air Targets Transatlantic Expansion with UK–US Flight Application
Wizz Air has applied for U.S. regulatory approval to launch passenger flights between the United Kingdom and the United States, marking a renewed push into the lucrative transatlantic market. The airline’s UK subsidiary has petitioned the U.S. Department of Transportation for a foreign air carrier permit, seeking to begin operations “as soon as possible” under the UK–US Open Skies Agreement signed in 2020.
Irish Aviation News
Aer Lingus Defends Push to Overturn Dublin Airport Passenger Cap
Aer Lingus has reiterated its opposition to the 32 million passenger cap at Dublin Airport, responding to recent legal and regulatory developments involving transatlantic services. The airline filed a submission on 26 January 2026 addressing a complaint by Airlines for America, which has urged the US Department of Transportation to curtail or suspend Ireland–US flights over the cap’s continued enforcement. Aer Lingus maintains that the restriction breaches EU slot regulations and the EU–US Air Transport Agreement, warning that prolonged uncertainty risks damaging connectivity and long-haul growth.
AerCap CEO Warns Against Overreacting to Geopolitical Turmoil
AerCap CEO Aengus Kelly has cautioned the aviation industry against overreacting to current geopolitical and economic uncertainty, emphasising the sector’s long-term financing cycles and structural resilience. Speaking in Dublin, Kelly noted that recent movements in gold prices reflect currency dynamics as much as risk sentiment and said he sees no evidence of weakening demand for dollar-denominated assets. The comments underline continued confidence among major lessors in aviation’s underlying fundamentals despite elevated global uncertainty.
Aergo Capital Announces Planned CEO Leadership Transition
Aergo Capital has announced a planned leadership transition, with Chief Executive Officer Fred Browne set to step down at the end of January. Eugene O’Reilly, currently Chief Operating Officer, has been appointed Acting CEO as part of a structured succession process aimed at ensuring continuity. Browne, who has led Aergo since its founding in 1999, has played a central role in building the lessor’s platform, with the transition designed to maintain stability as the business enters its next phase.
Sumisho Air Lease Appoints Executive Management Team
Sumisho Air Lease has announced the appointment of its Executive Management Team, to take effect upon completion of the planned acquisition of Air Lease Corporation, subject to regulatory approvals expected in the first half of the year. The appointments were confirmed on behalf of co-investors Sumitomo Corporation, SMBC Aviation Capital, Apollo, and Brookfield, marking a key governance milestone ahead of transaction close. The leadership structure is intended to ensure operational continuity and strategic oversight as Sumisho Air Lease prepares to integrate the platform and advance its global leasing ambitions.
Airlink and SMBC Aviation Capital Announce Three-Year Partnership
Airlink Inc. and SMBC Aviation Capital have announced a new three-year partnership valued at €300,000 to support global humanitarian response efforts during and after natural and man-made disasters. The collaboration builds on previous joint initiatives, including support for earthquake relief in Türkiye and Syria and disaster response programmes in Africa. The agreement underscores the growing role of aviation-linked organisations in enabling rapid, coordinated humanitarian logistics as global demand for disaster relief continues to rise.
Belfast City Airport Charity Partnership Raises Over £140,000 for Air Ambulance NI
Belfast City Airport has raised more than £140,000 for Air Ambulance NI following a two-year charity partnership, delivering significant support to Northern Ireland’s only Helicopter Emergency Medical Service. The funds were generated through contributions from passengers, partners, and airport staff, helping to sustain critical pre-hospital care operations carried out in coordination with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service. The partnership highlights the role of regional airports in supporting essential emergency services and community-focused initiatives beyond core aviation operations.
Simtech Aviation Welcomes New APS MCC Intake in Dublin
Dublin-based Simtech Aviation has welcomed a new intake of 10 APS MCC students from the UK and Europe as part of its January 2026 training programme. The development comes as the approved training organisation continues to expand capacity through a long-term partnership with Aer Lingus, supporting the introduction of new CAE full-flight simulators for Airbus aircraft at its Dublin centre. The programme reinforces growing demand for airline-oriented pilot training and further strengthens Dublin’s role as a key European aviation training hub.
Matt Cooper Podcast Features Pat Byrne
The latest episode of the Matt Cooper podcast shines a spotlight on Pat Byrne, offering a wide-ranging discussion on leadership, entrepreneurship, and the forces shaping Irish business today. In Episode S06 Ep09, Byrne reflects on his career journey, strategic decision-making, and lessons learned across multiple ventures. The conversation provides broader context on Ireland’s evolving business and investment landscape, extending beyond aviation into the wider economic environment.
Meet the Media Talks to Explore the Future of Travel Media
Meet the Media has announced Mark Little as keynote speaker for an upcoming talk focused on the future of travel media. A former RTÉ foreign correspondent and founder of Storyful, Little will examine how digital platforms, real-time content, and changing audience behaviour are reshaping how travel stories are created and consumed. The session is expected to offer valuable insight for the aviation, tourism, and media sectors as they adapt to evolving content formats, credibility challenges, and the growing influence of social-first storytelling.
Tweet Picks
@airwaysmagazine UPS has confirmed the retirement of its MD-11 fleet in Q4 2025, accelerating fleet replacement. The move triggered a $137 million non-cash write-off and $101 million in transformation charges, marking the end of MD-11 operations following last year’s MD-11 crash in Louisville.
@AmadeusITGroup Soccer driven travel is heating up across North America. Bookings to the U.S., Canada & Mexico are +15% YoY, with 37% made in the past month. Canada & Mexico also show early hotel occupancy growth.
@ArabianBusiness Dubai will see electric air taxis developed by Joby Aviation take off and begin commercial operations by the end of this year.
@AviationWeek East African carrier #EthiopianAirlines has firmed options on nine additional #Boeing 787-9s and finalized a #DubaiAirShow commitment, exercising 11 737-8 options.
Video Picks
Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky on Appointing a New CTO
In this video, Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky discusses the rationale behind appointing a new Chief Technology Officer and what the move signals for Airbnb’s next phase of growth. He touches on how technology leadership influences product direction, engineering culture, and long-term scalability as the platform continues to evolve.
Aircraft Leasing Ireland Brand Film
This brand film from Aircraft Leasing Ireland showcases Ireland’s role as a global centre for aircraft leasing, highlighting the depth of expertise, regulatory framework, and international connectivity that underpin the sector. The video brings together industry voices and visuals to illustrate how Ireland has built a trusted ecosystem supporting lessors, financiers, and airlines worldwide.
Alaska Airlines CEO on Refinery Risk in California
In this video, the CEO of Alaska Airlines discusses the growing risk that California’s refining capacity poses to the airline’s future operations. The conversation focuses on fuel supply constraints, cost volatility, and the wider implications for airline planning and profitability, highlighting how regional energy infrastructure is becoming an increasingly important variable in airline cost management and long-term strategy.
Acumen’s Take
Across markets, aviation is clearly operating in a phase of recalibration rather than recovery. Demand remains resilient, but capacity, capital, and regulatory frameworks are now the binding constraints shaping decision-making. Airlines and lessors are prioritising flexibility, disciplined balance sheet management, and long-term partnerships as operational and geopolitical uncertainty persists. As 2026 unfolds, competitive advantage will increasingly come from structural resilience and execution, not headline growth alone.
