03 Sep 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 3rd 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
TC-LBO Airbus A320-271N c/n 8832 Turkish Airlines Delivered to Istanbul 15/08/25 ex VT-IZU
Turkish Airlines has taken delivery of an Airbus A320-271N, registered TC-LBO (MSN 8832), which arrived in Istanbul on 15 August 2025. Previously operating as VT-IZU, the aircraft joins the flag carrier’s expanding A320neo fleet, supporting its strategy of boosting capacity and efficiency on regional and medium-haul routes.
TC-LBT Airbus A320-271N c/n 11111 AJet Delivered to Istanbul 18/08/25 ex EI-HKW
AJet has expanded its fleet with the delivery of an Airbus A320-271N, registered TC-LBT (MSN 11111), which arrived in Istanbul on 18 August 2025. Formerly operating as EI-HKW, the aircraft will support the Turkish low-cost carrier’s growth strategy, enhancing capacity on both domestic and regional routes while contributing to more fuel-efficient operations.
Global Aviation News
Africa Charter Airline Builds Infrastructure for 737-800Fs
South Africa-based Africa Charter Airline is laying the groundwork for future 737-800F operations through its subsidiary Jet Centre Aircraft Maintenance. The carrier is investing in materials, components, and spares to support a dedicated maintenance programme while familiarising itself with the operational demands of the freighter type. Although the airline continues to expand its 737 Classic fleet, the initiative signals its preparation for a long-term transition toward more modern freighters, strengthening its ACMI and charter capabilities in the regional cargo market.
AIR ONE International Holdings Expands Fleet with First Boeing 777 Freighter
AIR ONE International Holdings has taken delivery of its first Boeing 777 Freighter, marking the start of a long-term fleet expansion strategy. The aircraft, acquired via subsidiary AeroTransCargo FZE, will be operated by UK-based affiliate One Air under an operating lease and features the carrier’s blue, yellow, and white livery. With a 107-tonne payload, the 777F joins the group’s fleet of 11 Boeing 747-400Fs, enhancing global cargo capacity across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. A second 777F is scheduled to arrive by the end of 2025, positioning AIR ONE as a stronger competitor in the international cargo market.
Airbus on Course to Overtake Boeing After Five-Decade B737 vs A320 Battle – Cirium
Airbus is poised to surpass Boeing in cumulative narrowbody deliveries for the first time, marking a historic shift in the long-standing A320 versus 737 rivalry. According to Cirium data, Boeing has delivered 12,175 737s since the type’s debut in 1967, while Airbus has delivered 12,153 A320-family aircraft since 1988. With Airbus maintaining steadier production despite engine supply challenges, analysts expect the delivery gap to close imminently, signalling a new phase in the OEM competition that has defined global single-aisle fleets for decades.
Air Côte d’Ivoire to Launch Services to Paris for First Time
Air Côte d’Ivoire will commence its first-ever European route on 18 September 2025, introducing daily flights between Abidjan and Paris Charles de Gaulle. The service will be operated with the airline’s new Airbus A330-900neo, configured with 242 seats across four cabins: First, Business, Premium Economy, and Economy. The move positions the West African carrier to compete directly with Air France, which currently operates two daily flights on the route, and marks a milestone in Air Côte d’Ivoire’s growth as it extends its network beyond Africa for the first time.
Air France Launches ‘Short Connection Pass’ at Paris CDG Airport
Air France, in partnership with airport operator Groupe ADP, has introduced a new digital service to support passengers with tight transfers at Paris Charles de Gaulle. The Short Connection Pass is automatically activated when a traveller’s connection time falls below a set threshold, helping streamline the transit experience. The initiative underscores Air France’s focus on enhancing customer service and reducing stress for connecting passengers at its largest hub.
Air Lease Confirms Canceled Order for Airbus A350 Freighter
Air Lease Corp. has confirmed the cancellation of its order for seven Airbus A350 freighters, a move first reflected in Airbus’s July order and delivery report. CEO John Plueger told analysts that development delays and the impact of tariffs were key factors behind the decision. The withdrawal represents a setback for Airbus’s next-generation freighter programme, which has been positioned to compete with Boeing’s 777F and 777-8F in the long-haul cargo market.
Caribbean Experts Urge Airlines to Increase Airlift to Region
Tourism experts in the Caribbean are calling on airlines to boost capacity to the region for summer 2026, warning that reduced airlift is a key constraint on growth. They argue that the region risks losing competitiveness with Europe during the peak travel period without additional services. Alongside limited flight options, a shortage of hotel bedstock driven by rising U.S. demand for short and weekend breaks was also highlighted as a challenge to unlocking the region’s full tourism potential.
Ethiopian Airlines Reports January–June Passenger Numbers Up 8% to Record 19m
Ethiopian Airlines carried a record 19 million passengers in the first half of 2025, an 8% increase year-on-year, generating revenues of USD 7.6 billion for the fiscal year ending 30 June. Despite the strong performance, the carrier has suspended flights to Asmara due to the inability to recover frozen funds in Eritrea, though it continues to use Eritrean airspace for overflights. CEO Mesfin Tasew also confirmed Ethiopian has secured a USD 500 million loan from the African Development Bank to finance construction of Bishoftu International Airport, a new hub designed to handle up to 60 million passengers annually.
Swiss to Introduce Private ‘First Grand Suite’ in 2026
Swiss International Air Lines will debut a new First Grand Suite in 2026, offering a fully private space that combines two first-class suites and the aisle between them. The configuration can function as an office or meeting room for up to three passengers, enclosed by 1.8-metre-high walls. Unique among global carriers for offering first class across all long-haul routes, Swiss will allow customers to book a window suite together with a central “Suite Plus” to create the exclusive Grand Suite, enhancing privacy and flexibility for premium travellers.
Irish Aviation News
CSO Tourism Figures for July Down 1% on 2024 & 44% on Pre-Pandemic
The Central Statistics Office (CSO) reported 646,400 inbound visitors to Ireland in July 2025, a decline of 1.4% compared with 2024 and 44% below pre-pandemic levels under a different measurement method. The average length of stay for foreign visitors fell to 7.9 nights, down from 8.1 in July 2024 and 8.7 in July 2023. Overall, visitors accounted for 5.1 million overnight stays in July, representing a 4% drop year-on-year and a 10% decline compared with 2023, highlighting ongoing challenges in Ireland’s inbound tourism recovery.
Dublin-Based Chinese Jet Lessor CDB Aviation’s Profits Slump by Almost $60m
CDB Aviation, the Dublin-based aircraft lessor indirectly controlled by the Chinese state, reported a sharp fall in pre-tax profits to $7 million (€6 million) in 2024, down from $66 million the previous year. Revenues also slipped to just over $1 billion from $1.2 billion in 2023. As of year-end, the company owned 260 aircraft, including four still stranded in Russia due to post-invasion sanctions. Its total portfolio now stands at 521 aircraft, comprising both owned and on-order jets, underlining its continued scale despite financial headwinds.
FTA Ireland Disappointed with Dublin Airport Decision
FTA Ireland (FTAI), the body representing businesses that support the national supply chain, has expressed disappointment at An Coimisiún Pleanála’s (ACP) final ruling on nighttime operations at Dublin Airport. Chief Executive Niall Cotton said the decision disregarded recommendations from the logistics sector and risks constraining growth opportunities for Irish businesses. While FTAI supports the introduction of a noise quota in line with international best practice, it voiced concern over the imposition of a fixed annual cap on nighttime aircraft movements, warning that it could hinder both commercial flexibility and economic competitiveness.
Hurling Final Travel Exposes Lack of Cork–Dublin Flights, TD Says
Cork North Central TD Thomas Gould has criticised the lack of direct flights between Cork and Dublin after attempts to arrange charter services for last Sunday’s All-Ireland hurling final went unanswered by airlines. Addressing a Dáil committee, Gould highlighted the absence of connectivity not only to the capital but also to Belfast, stressing that the issue underlines broader challenges in regional air links.
Irish Aviation Golf Challenge 2025
The annual Irish Aviation Golf Challenge took place in glorious sunshine at Birr Golf Club on 8 August 2025, delivering a memorable day of sport, camaraderie, and charity. Organised in support of St. Vincent de Paul Birr, the event raised €21,500, bringing the total funds generated since its inception to €540,900. With excellent participation, sponsorship, and contributions from across the aviation community, the day was marked as another success in helping those less fortunate.
Irish Aviation Authority Aviation Sustainability
The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) has highlighted the role of the EU’s Fit for 55 package and the ReFuelEU regulation in driving aviation decarbonisation. The regulation mandates a steady increase in the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which offers significantly lower lifecycle CO₂ emissions compared with conventional jet fuel. Obligations are being placed on fuel suppliers, airports, and airlines to ensure a consistent and growing supply of SAF at major EU airports, with blending targets rising from 2% in 2025 to 70% by 2050.
Irish Coast Guard Launches Enhanced Aviation Service
Minister of State Seán Canney has officially launched the Irish Coast Guard’s new aviation fleet, representing a major step forward in national search and rescue (SAR) and maritime monitoring capability. Operated by Bristow Ireland under a 10-year contract, the upgraded service introduces six purpose-built AW189 helicopters, stationed across Waterford, Sligo, Dublin, and Shannon. The investment significantly strengthens Ireland’s ability to respond to emergencies and safeguard its coastline with modern, reliable aviation assets.
Ryanair Extends Partnership with Erasmus Student Network – for 9th Year – Into 2026
Ryanair has renewed its partnership with the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) through 2026, marking the ninth consecutive year of collaboration. The agreement continues to support European students on exchange programmes with discounted travel and added benefits. Through a dedicated Erasmus booking platform on Ryanair.com, ESN members can access a 10% discount on four one-way flights (or two round trips) and receive a free 20kg checked bag with each booking, reinforcing Ryanair’s role in facilitating affordable mobility for students across Europe.
Ryanair MAX Deliveries Accelerate as O’Leary Praises Boeing
Ryanair is set to receive 25 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft ahead of schedule by October 2025, with Boeing fast-tracking deliveries to meet the airline’s capacity needs. Group CEO Michael O’Leary praised the U.S. manufacturer’s improved production quality, a notable shift from his typically critical remarks. The accelerated handovers reflect Boeing’s efforts to stabilise its output while strengthening ties with one of its largest customers, and provide Ryanair with timely capacity to expand its network for the winter season and beyond.
Tweet Picks
@eoghancorry The ratio of inbound to outbound trips of the total number of recorded trips on and off the island has changed dramatically since the pandemic, falling to 29pc inbound in May compared with 60pc inbound recorded in May 2017 and 57pc inbound in May 2019.
@eoghancorry CSO figures for July released today show 2,393.600 trips, 1,483.200 outbound and 646,400 inbound, a ratio of 30/70. It makes the tourism figures difficult to assess as there is a strong suggestion from the data the inbound/outbound ratio was miscalculated in the past.
@FutureFlightAIN Electra Aero is in talks with a select group of prospective operators for its nine-passenger EL9 Ultra Short airplane with a view to collecting non-refundable deposits from launch customers.
@FutureTravelX Austin-Bergstrom completes first ‘Journey With AUS’ expansion program project.
Video Picks
Boeing and China in Talks for Aircraft Deal: From 30 Orders to 500
This video explores Boeing’s ongoing negotiations with China over a potential landmark aircraft deal that could expand from an initial 30 aircraft to as many as 500. The discussion highlights the strategic importance of the Chinese market to Boeing, the potential scale of the order, and its impact on global aircraft demand. If finalised, the agreement would mark one of Boeing’s largest single-market transactions, underscoring China’s central role in shaping the future of commercial aviation.
IAA UAS Lunchtime Lecture Series – Direct Remote ID for Drones
In this video from the Irish Aviation Authority’s UAS Lunchtime Lecture Series, experts discuss the implementation of Direct Remote Identification (Remote ID) for drones. The session outlines how the technology enables authorities to identify drones in real time, improving accountability, airspace safety, and regulatory compliance. It also explores the implications for drone operators, manufacturers, and the wider aviation ecosystem as Ireland aligns with evolving EU drone regulations.
India, China to Resume Direct Flights & Border Ties
This video reports on the agreement between India and China to resume direct passenger flights and reopen key border trade routes after years of suspension. The development marks a thaw in relations between the two countries, with significant implications for tourism, business connectivity, and regional stability. Restoring direct flights is expected to ease travel for students, professionals, and traders, while boosting broader economic engagement between Asia’s two largest emerging markets.
Acumen’s Take
This edition reflects aviation’s constant balancing act between growth, resilience, and transformation. Airlines and lessors are advancing fleet strategies while navigating financial pressures, regulatory shifts, and competitive dynamics. Sustainability continues to shape both policy and operations, with industry stakeholders aligning with long-term climate goals. At the same time, connectivity, innovation, and customer experience remain central priorities. The sector’s adaptability underscores its capacity to evolve in response to changing market realities while keeping global mobility at the forefront.
