04 Dec 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 4th 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
G-CMPI Embraer 170 Delivered to Drake Jet Leasing
An Embraer 170, registered G-CMPI (c/n 17000029), was ferried to Nashville on 26 November 2025 after previously operating as SP-LDE. The aircraft now joins the Drake Jet Leasing portfolio, adding a versatile regional jet with strong demand across short-haul markets. Its transition supports the lessor’s strategy of deploying efficient, mid-life assets suited to a wide range of operator requirements in both scheduled and charter environments.
JA23JJ Airbus A320 Delivered from Jetstar Japan to Abu Dhabi
Jetstar Japan has delivered an Airbus A320-232, registered JA23JJ (c/n 5940), to Abu Dhabi on 21 November 2025. The aircraft’s relocation marks its transition from the Japanese low-cost carrier’s fleet and positions it for future deployment under new ownership or operational arrangements. The move reflects ongoing activity in the mid-life A320 market, where strong demand continues to support global redistribution of narrowbody assets.
Global Aviation News
Aviation Industry Pushes Back Against Further APD Increases from 2027
Airlines and industry groups have criticised the UK government’s decision to raise Air Passenger Duty (APD) again in 2027, following an already scheduled increase in April 2026. The announcement, confirmed in Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ latest Budget, has intensified concerns about the cumulative impact of rising taxes on fares, demand and the competitiveness of UK aviation. easyJet CEO Kenton Jarvis, who had hoped for a tax freeze, noted his pessimism ahead of the decision. The sector warns that repeated APD hikes risk undermining growth at a time when operators are investing heavily in fleet renewal and sustainability.
Berniq Airways Orders CFM LEAP-1A Engines for First A320neo Fleet
Berniq Airways has placed its inaugural order for CFM LEAP-1A engines to power a new fleet of six Airbus A320neo family aircraft. Announced in Dubai, the agreement includes 12 engines, additional spares and a multi-year services contract to support long-term reliability and operational performance. The Benghazi-based private carrier, launched in 2021, currently operates A320ceo aircraft equipped with CFM56-5B engines. The shift to the LEAP-1A platform marks a significant step in the airline’s modernisation strategy as it continues to expand domestic and international services.
beOnd Accelerates Global Expansion with New $100M Investment Strategy
Premium leisure carrier beOnd has unveiled plans to raise an additional USD $100 million to support its next phase of global growth, building on the $90 million already invested to date. Announced at the TOURISE world travel summit in Riyadh, the airline outlined a multi-AOC strategy aimed at entering new jurisdictions and scaling operations to a projected 56 aircraft by 2030. The expansion underscores beOnd’s ambition to cement its position as the leading all-premium leisure airline, leveraging fresh capital to widen market access, strengthen network resilience and accelerate international rollout.
Belgium to Double Air Passenger Tax from 2027, Prompting Industry Backlash
Belgium will again increase its air passenger tax, raising the levy to €10 per departing passenger from 2027 for all flights, regardless of distance, and increasing it further to €11 in 2029. This marks the second rise in the current legislative period: last summer, the De Wever government already raised the tax on flights over 500 kilometres from €2 or €4 to €5, while keeping the €10 rate for shorter flights. The new measure, part of the recently finalised budget, is expected to generate €168 to €184 million annually.
BOC Aviation to Lease Three Boeing 737-8 Aircraft to Akasa Air
BOC Aviation has finalised a purchase-and-leaseback agreement with Akasa Air for three Boeing 737-8 aircraft, marking the lessor’s first partnership with India’s newest airline. All three aircraft, equipped with CFM LEAP-1B engines, will join Akasa on long-term operating leases, with the first delivery scheduled for January 2026. BOC Aviation Chief Commercial Officer Paul Kent highlighted the deal as a strong alignment of Akasa’s fleet growth plans with the lessor’s ability to provide scalable capital solutions. The transaction reinforces continued confidence in the 737-8 as a high-demand single-aisle platform.
EBACE 2026 to Introduce New Aircraft Static Display Area at Geneva Airport
The European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) has announced a redesigned aircraft static display for the 2026 edition of EBACE, set to take place from 27–29 May. The refreshed layout will relocate the full business aircraft showcase to a new dedicated area at Geneva Airport, positioned directly beside the PalExpo convention centre. The update is intended to improve accessibility, visitor flow and overall presentation, ensuring manufacturers and operators can display their latest aircraft more effectively during Europe’s flagship business aviation event.
Emirates Expands 777X Commitment with Order for 65 Additional 777-9s
Emirates has placed a new order for 65 Boeing 777-9 aircraft, strengthening its position as the world’s largest 777X customer with a total commitment of 270 jets. Announced at the Dubai Airshow 2025, the deal supports the airline’s long-term expansion plans and its need for greater capacity as global travel demand continues to rise. The 777-9, Boeing’s next-generation long-haul flagship, will play a central role in Emirates’ future fleet, offering increased efficiency, range and passenger comfort across its extensive international network.
Etihad Launches Four New Routes to Africa and Asia, Strengthening Abu Dhabi’s Global Connectivity
Etihad Airways has expanded its network with four inaugural routes,to Tunis, Hanoi, Chiang Mai and Hong Kong,launched within a three-day period. The additions mark another milestone in a record year for the airline, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s role as a major hub for tourism, trade and international travel. The new services add thousands of seats to the network, improving access for travellers from Africa and Asia while offering UAE residents and visitors greater choice across key leisure and business destinations. Etihad’s rapid expansion has contributed nearly 45 percent of the UAE’s aviation growth this year, underscoring its strategic importance in the region’s connectivity landscape.
Irish Aviation News
Dublin Ranks Among Busiest Routes as London Stansted Records Strongest October Ever
London Stansted has posted its busiest October on record, with Dublin once again standing out as one of the airport’s highest-traffic destinations. Passenger demand surged across the month, driven by strong interest in family holidays and short breaks, with more than 920,000 travellers flying during the half-term week alone. Spain, Italy and Türkiye were the most popular country markets, while Istanbul, Dublin and Edinburgh topped the list of individual routes. Over the 12 months to the end of October, Stansted handled 29.99 million passengers, a 1.9 percent increase year-on-year.
EirTrade Aviation Acquires Two A320neo Aircraft with PW1127 GTF Engines
EirTrade Aviation has purchased two six-year-old Airbus A320neo aircraft powered by PW1127 GTF engines, reinforcing its position in the global asset management and trading market. The engines will be offered for sale to help ease the worldwide shortage of spare PW1100-series units, while both airframes will be disassembled at EirTrade’s facility in Knock to support its A320neo customer operations. The acquisition reflects strong demand for next-generation narrowbody components and the continued importance of Ireland as a centre for aircraft asset management.
Emerald Airlines Reports First Operating Profit for 2024
Emerald Airlines, the exclusive operator of Aer Lingus Regional, has achieved its first-ever operating profit, marking a major milestone in the carrier’s third year of operations. For the year ending 2024, the airline posted an operating profit of €9.6 million, a sharp turnaround from the €7.6 million loss recorded in 2023. The result highlights Emerald’s disciplined route strategy, strengthened operational performance and successful progression from start-up phase to sustainable profitability.
Genesis Secures $650 Million Warehouse Facility to Support Portfolio Expansion
Genesis, the Dublin-based aircraft lessor, has closed and upsized a $650 million credit warehouse facility to fund the continued growth of its commercial aircraft portfolio. The structure, led by Citi with participation from Morgan Stanley, Bank of America, BayernLB and new lender Deutsche Bank, further strengthens the company’s funding base ahead of its 2026 expansion plans. CFO Adam Smyth highlighted the importance of the enhanced facility in providing strategic flexibility and enabling Genesis to capitalize on current market opportunities as demand for modern, fuel-efficient aircraft remains strong.
Ireland Set for Major Economic Boost as UEFA EURO 2028 Officially Launched
Ireland is poised to gain significant social and economic benefits from hosting matches during the UEFA EURO 2028 tournament, with an estimated €449 million return generated from a €93 million investment. Dublin will host seven games, including five group-stage fixtures, a Round of 16 match and a quarter-final, making it one of the largest sporting events ever staged in the country. Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport Patrick O’Donovan attended the official launch in London, alongside activation events across the UK and Ireland. The tournament is expected to elevate Ireland’s international profile, stimulate tourism and strengthen infrastructural development ahead of 2028.
Ryanair Increases Pressure on Austrian Government Amid Aviation Policy Stalemate
Ryanair has intensified its criticism of the Austrian government, accusing officials of creating a political deadlock that continues to hinder the country’s aviation competitiveness. The airline argues that high fees, restrictive policies and a lack of meaningful reform are undermining passenger growth and limiting the potential of Austria’s air travel sector. As tensions escalate, Ryanair is pushing for clearer action on cost structures and regulatory barriers, warning that the current standstill risks pushing traffic and investment toward more aviation-friendly neighbouring markets.
Ryanair Adds Over 64,000 Extra Seats at Stansted for Christmas Travel Surge
Ryanair is ramping up festive-season capacity at London Stansted, adding more than 64,000 extra seats for Christmas week to meet strong travel demand. The airline expects to carry over 529,000 passengers through the airport during the holiday period as families and holidaymakers take advantage of peak-season availability. Ryanair says the additional capacity is designed to ensure travellers can secure flights home for Christmas amid fast-filling bookings across its network.
Tweet Picks
@ATWOnline The small numbers of passengers using many of West Africa’s air routes were a significant factor behind Air Côte d’Ivoire - @AirCI_Officiel -selecting the @Embraer 175 for its fleet, the airline’s CEO said at last week’s @DubaiAirshow.
@ATWOnline UK budget carrier @easyJet expects its 17 @Airbus #A320neo aircraft, set for delivery in 2026, to arrive on schedule, supporting its ongoing plan to drive efficiency by transitioning to larger aircraft.
@ATWOnline The UK government has picked London @HeathrowAirport’s in-house proposal as the scheme to steer long-stalled plans for a third runway, edging out the rival concept put forward by the Arora Group after months of technical scrutiny.
@ATWOnline The UK’s aviation weather forecaster is launching a new volcanic ash forecasting method in a bid to avoid a repeat of the chaos that impacted aviation after the eruption of Eyjafjallajökull in Iceland back in 2010.
Video Picks
Delivering a More Human Airline CX – Insights from Aer Lingus
This discussion explores how Aer Lingus is reshaping its customer experience by placing human connection at the centre of its service strategy. The video highlights how the airline is balancing digital innovation with empathetic, people-focused interactions to create smoother journeys and more meaningful engagement throughout the travel process. From staff empowerment to smarter use of technology, Aer Lingus outlines how a “human-first” approach is driving stronger loyalty and elevating the overall passenger experience.
WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech on Expanding Seating Options Through Cabin Reconfiguration
In this interview, WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech explains how the airline is redesigning its cabin layouts to offer a broader range of seating choices across its network. He outlines the strategic rationale behind WestJet’s reconfiguration programme, including improved aircraft utilisation, better alignment with market demand and the ability to serve both leisure and premium travellers more effectively. The conversation sheds light on how flexible cabin products are becoming a key differentiator for airlines seeking to balance revenue growth with passenger comfort.
CNBC’s Full Interview with Emirates Airline President – Strategic Outlook and Market Momentum
This in-depth conversation features Emirates Airline President discussing the carrier’s strategic priorities as global travel continues to surge. The interview covers fleet expansion, long-haul demand trends, premium cabin investment and the airline’s outlook on airport capacity challenges across key hubs. He also reflects on competitive dynamics in the Middle East, the role of the 777X in Emirates’ long-term growth, and how the airline is adapting to evolving passenger expectations. The segment offers a clear view of how Emirates is positioning itself for sustained leadership in international aviation.
Acumen’s Take
This edition highlights a sector moving with purpose: carriers scaling fleets, governments reshaping policy and lessors securing capital to capture rising demand. Across regions, the fundamentals remain consistent,capacity growth, financing momentum and a sharper focus on passenger experience. At the same time, regulatory pressures and tax shifts continue to shape the economics of air travel. For stakeholders, the message is clear: adaptability, data-driven planning and disciplined asset strategies will define who leads as aviation enters a more competitive, opportunity-rich 2026.
