05 Nov 2025

Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 5th November 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

Delta Upgauges Boston–Dublin Route to Airbus A330neo

Delta Air Lines is upgrading its Boston–Dublin service (DAL154/5) effective from 26 October 2025 by replacing the 225-seat Boeing 767-300ER with the three-class 281-seat Airbus A330-900neo. The route will operate four times weekly on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. This transition increases Delta’s capacity on the Dublin route by approximately 25%.

 

KLM Deploys Airbus A321neo on Amsterdam–Dublin Route

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has introduced the Airbus A321neo on two of its six daily services between Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) and Dublin (DUB), effective 26 October 2025. The inaugural A321neo flight, KLM1141/2 operated by PH-AXK (MSN 12664), arrived in Dublin at 16:31 local time before departing back to Amsterdam at 17:49. The new 227-seat, two-class aircraft features Airbus’ Airspace cabin with redesigned sidewalls, XL overhead bins offering 60% more luggage capacity, USB-C power outlets at every seat, and advanced LED lighting for enhanced passenger comfort.

 

Ryanair UK Transfers B737NG to Buzz

Ryanair UK transferred its Boeing 737-8AS, registered G-RUKL (MSN 33572), to sister company Buzz at London Stansted on 21 October 2025, where it was re-registered as SP-RNL. The aircraft operated its first service under Buzz on 27 October as RYR2225/6 between London Stansted (STN) and Tallinn (TLL). According to Flightradar24, G-RUKL’s final Ryanair UK flight was RUK1365 from Rabat to Stansted on 16 October. The airline’s first 198-seat Boeing 737 MAX 8-200 “Gamechanger,” registered G-RYMA (MSN 67128), remains on order awaiting delivery from Grant County International Airport in Washington.

 

Aircraft Update

SU-BWF Airbus A320-214 c/n 6458 Air Cairo Delivered to Cairo 25/10/25 ex 9K-AKG

Air Cairo took delivery of an Airbus A320-214, registered SU-BWF (MSN 6458), on 25 October 2025. The aircraft, formerly registered as 9K-AKG, was delivered to Cairo, further supporting Air Cairo’s fleet expansion and operational growth within regional and international markets.

 

2-PCIB Airbus A320-232 c/n 4864 Mukhtara Air Delivered to Cairo 30/10/25

Mukhtara Air took delivery of an Airbus A320-232, registered 2-PCIB (MSN 4864), on 30 October 2025. The aircraft was delivered to Cairo, marking a step forward in the airline’s operational development and reinforcing its capacity expansion within regional markets.

 

Global Aviation News

Airbus Reaches Goal of 100 A220 Handovers to Airlines in 2025

Airbus has achieved its target of delivering 100 A220 aircraft to airlines in 2025, supported by strong performance across its commercial, helicopter, and defence divisions. The company also reported third-quarter profits and revenues exceeding expectations, driven by sustained demand for commercial jets. Airbus reaffirmed its target of around 820 total aircraft deliveries for the year, while adjusting A220 production to 12 units per month in 2026, down from the previous goal of 14, due to supply chain challenges in Canada and the United States that have delayed a small number of assemblies.

 

Air Canada Switches Widebody Capacity for Narrowbody Frequency with New Airbus A321XLR Porto Flights

Air Canada is set to operate its Montreal (YUL)–Porto (OPO) route with Airbus A321XLR aircraft from next summer, replacing the Airbus A330s previously used on the service. The switch marks the airline’s fifth transatlantic route operated by the A321XLR and reflects a strategic shift toward higher-frequency, lower-capacity operations. To offset the reduced seat count, Air Canada will increase weekly flights from three to five, improving flexibility and market competitiveness. The move aligns with its focus on cost efficiency and customer choice, as rival Air Transat already operates A321LRs on the same route during the summer season.

 

ANA Group Announces Restructuring of Its Multi-Brand Strategy

ANA Group has announced a restructuring of its multi-brand strategy as part of its upcoming medium-term plan, aimed at enhancing overall profitability and competitiveness across the Group. The move will leverage AirJapan’s expertise and resources to strengthen the ANA brand, allowing for greater flexibility in responding to evolving market dynamics. Since 2024, ANA Group has pursued a multi-brand approach to capture global passenger demand through three distinct brands, and this restructuring marks the next phase in optimising brand alignment and operational efficiency.

 

Ascend Airways Malaysia Obtains Full AOC and Air Service Permit (ASP)

Ascend Airways Malaysia, part of Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) provider has officially secured its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and Air Service Permit (ASP), paving the way for the launch of operations this November. The airline, which initially received its Conditional Air Service Permit (CASP) in 2024, has worked closely with the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) to complete the certification process.

 

Ashland Place Completes Its Third and Fourth Financing Facilities for Fortress Investment Group and GOAL Aircraft Leasing

Ashland Place Finance LLC has completed its third and fourth financing facilities for funds managed by Fortress Investment Group and GOAL Aircraft Leasing. The financing supports the sale and leaseback of two new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft upon delivery from Embraer, both leased to Canadian regional carrier Porter Airlines. These transactions build on two previous financings completed in July, bringing the total to four deals under this partnership and further strengthening Ashland Place’s role in facilitating aviation financing and asset-backed transactions within the regional aircraft market.

 

BNDES Approves R$1.7 Billion for Embraer to Export 13 Aircraft to SkyWest Airlines

The National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) has approved R$1.7 billion in financing to support the export of 13 Embraer E-175 aircraft to SkyWest Airlines. The financing, executed through the BNDES Exim Post-Shipment product, reinforces the global competitiveness of Brazil’s aerospace industry while aiding SkyWest’s ongoing fleet renewal. SkyWest, Embraer’s largest customer and the world’s leading E-175 operator, currently flies 265 of the type, with its fleet projected to grow to 279 aircraft by late 2026.

 

Brunei to Recognise Chinese Certification and Open Way to COMAC C919

Brunei will begin recognising Chinese CAAC aircraft certifications under BAR 8 Part 21, aligning them with EASA and FAA standards and paving the way for COMAC C919 operations. GallopAir, a Brunei-based start-up, has a letter of intent for 15 COMAC C909s and 15 C919s worth €1.8 billion, signed in 2023. The airline plans to launch scheduled services in Q3 2026 to Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore. The COMAC C919, in service since 2023, has secured 1,061 orders and is targeting 300 deliveries by 2030, marking a key step in China’s growing presence in the global aviation market.

 

Fit for the Runway – The Evolution of Emirates’ Iconic Cabin Crew Uniform

Emirates has unveiled the latest evolution of its iconic cabin crew uniform, celebrating 40 years of style, heritage, and brand identity. First introduced in 1985, the uniform has become a globally recognised symbol of the airline’s “Fly Better” experience. The 2025 iteration blends tradition with modernity, reflecting Emirates’ commitment to elegance, professionalism, and innovation. Each detail  from the distinctive red hat to the refined tailoring embodies the spirit of the world’s largest international airline and its dedication to creating a timeless, recognisable image in global aviation.

 

How Boeing Global Services Is Supporting Starlink Installs on 787s

Boeing Global Services is playing a key role in enabling Starlink satellite connectivity installations on Boeing 787 aircraft, including Virgin Atlantic’s fleet. Drawing on nearly three decades of expertise in electronically steerable antennas (ESAs) and active phased array systems, Boeing is leveraging its deep experience in aeronautical communications to support this next-generation technology. Having previously pioneered inflight connectivity through its Connexion by Boeing programme, the company’s involvement in Starlink installations marks a renewed step toward advancing high-speed, reliable internet access for commercial aviation.

 

IAG Loyalty Aims to Double in Size in Five Years

IAG Loyalty, a subsidiary of International Airlines Group, plans to double in size over the next five years by expanding partnerships beyond traditional airline operations. The company sees significant potential for growth by forging new collaborations with businesses that can integrate IAG’s reward system into their customer offerings.
 

Irish Aviation News

AerCap Reports Strong Financial Results for the Third Quarter of 2025

AerCap Holdings N.V. (NYSE: AER), the global leader in aviation leasing, has reported robust financial results for Q3 2025. The company achieved record adjusted net income and earnings per share (EPS), alongside $1.5 billion in asset sales that generated $332 million in gains, its highest quarterly figure to date. AerCap also recovered an additional $475 million related to assets lost in the Ukraine conflict, bringing total recoveries since 2023 to $2.9 billion. 

 

AvCon Christmas Networking Event – The Afterburner

AvCon is set to close out the year with The Afterburner, its annual Christmas networking event, taking place on Thursday, 12 December 2025, at Hook & Ladder, Weston Airport, Co. Dublin. The evening will bring together professionals from across the aviation and aerospace community for an informal celebration featuring great food, conversation, and networking. Attendees will also have the opportunity to support the SkyBound Bursary Fund, which helps schools participate in AvCon 2026. Admission is free, with optional donations welcomed on the night.

 

AviLease and Riyadh Air Sign Landmark First Lease for Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner

AviLease, the Saudi Arabia–based global aircraft lessor, has signed its first lease agreement with Riyadh Air, the Kingdom’s new national carrier. The deal covers one Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, making AviLease the inaugural lessor to partner with Riyadh Air. Scheduled for delivery in Q4 2025, the agreement marks a major milestone in the airline’s journey toward its commercial launch and underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing prominence in global aviation.

 

Cassidy Travel Reports Strong Turnout for Birthday Sale Day at Leopardstown

Cassidy Travel celebrated its 40th anniversary with a successful Big Birthday Sale Day at Leopardstown Racecourse on 25 October 2025, drawing a strong turnout from holidaymakers. The event featured a full day of presentations beginning at 1:00 p.m., with 30-minute themed sessions and expert travel clinics moderated by Travel Extra’s Eoghan Corry. Cruise, river cruise, and escorted tour sessions saw particularly high engagement, with participation from Oomi Travel, Insight Vacations, Sunway, The Travel Corporation, Trafalgar, and Abbey Travel. Attendees also enjoyed exclusive offers for 2025 and 2026 holidays, marking a fitting celebration of Cassidy Travel’s four decades in the travel industry.

 

CHC Ireland Receives Search and Rescue Fatigue Risk Management System Award

CHC Ireland has been recognised as an inaugural “Blades of Valour” award recipient by Vertical and Vertical Valour magazines, leading global publications for the helicopter industry. The award acknowledges CHC Ireland’s excellence in implementing a Search and Rescue Fatigue Risk Management System and its continued dedication to safety and operational excellence. Formerly the Irish Coast Guard’s contracted operator, CHC Ireland continues to manage several bases during the transition to Bristow Ireland. The recognition celebrates the company’s contribution to global best practices in aviation safety and search and rescue operations.

 

CityJet’s New Owner Confirms Airline to Focus on SAS Wet-Lease with CRJ-900 Fleet

CityJet’s new majority owner, investor Lars Thuesen, has confirmed that the airline will focus on operating a wet-lease agreement with Scandinavian carrier SAS, utilising 15 CRJ-900 aircraft under a long-term deal. Thuesen, who acquired a 92% stake in CityJet for €3.2 million, has outlined a €38–40 million rescue plan that will safeguard 79 of 122 Dublin-based jobs and create up to 17 new roles in a Danish subsidiary. The High Court approved the restructuring scheme three weeks ago, despite opposition from SARA, following the airline’s loss of a €13 million Lufthansa contract. The renewed SAS agreement, valued at around €80 million, reinforces CityJet’s strategic focus on regional wet-lease operations.

 

FLY4 Airlines and ACS Leasing Secure Winter Season ACMI Service Out of Delhi

Dublin-based ACMI specialist FLY4 Airlines has partnered with ACS Leasing, a subsidiary of Air Charter Service, to provide a winter season ACMI programme for Indian carrier SpiceJet. The agreement marks FLY4’s first long-term ACMI operation outside Europe and a major step in its global expansion strategy. Beginning 31 October 2025 and running through early May 2026, the airline will operate selected routes from Delhi, including domestic flights to Mumbai, Varanasi, and Ayodhya, as well as international services to Dubai and Bangkok. The partnership supports FLY4’s strategy to build a counter-seasonal, diversified customer portfolio and maximise fleet utilisation year-round.

 

Frontier Scientific Solutions Announces Schedule for the World’s First Dedicated Life Science Air Corridor Between Shannon and Wilmington International Airport (ILM)

Frontier Scientific Solutions has unveiled the initial flight schedule for the world’s first temperature-controlled life science air corridor, linking Shannon Airport (SNN) and Wilmington International Airport (ILM). Operated by a subsidiary of Air Transport Services Group (ATSG) under a dedicated partnership, the corridor is purpose-built for the secure transport of critical life-saving materials such as finished medicines, active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), and medical devices. Using wide-body aircraft with guaranteed capacity and no co-mingling of general freight, the service ensures end-to-end product integrity through in-flight temperature mapping and continuous quality monitoring marking a major milestone for Ireland’s life sciences and logistics sectors.

 

IBGAA Business Aviation Conference to Draw Hundreds of Industry Leaders to Ireland

More than 150 business aviation professionals from across the globe are set to gather in Ireland for the IBGAA 2025 International Business Aviation Conference on 13 November. Organised by the Irish Business and General Aviation Association, the annual one-day event launched in 2022 has quickly become a key platform for global networking and industry dialogue. Founding Executive Director Joe Buckley described the conference as a unique opportunity for senior decision-makers from Europe, the U.S., and beyond to engage in discussions, build partnerships, and explore new opportunities in the evolving business aviation landscape.

 

New GAR Requirements from 31st October – What Irish Pilots Need to Know

Effective 31 October 2025, new changes to the UK General Aviation Report (GAR) process will come into force, affecting pilots operating between the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Great Britain. Introduced under the UK’s General Aviation (Persons on Board, Flight Information and Civil Penalties) Regulations 2024, the updates are designed to strengthen border security and streamline customs procedures. A key change is the mandatory electronic submission of GARs pilots and operators will no longer be permitted to send reports via email or fax. All submissions must now be completed online through approved digital platforms, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in flight reporting.

 

Ryanair Cuts Two More Vienna Aircraft for S26 as Austrian Government Ignores $1 Billion Growth Plan

Ryanair has announced the removal of two additional aircraft from its Vienna base for the Summer 2026 season, representing a $200 million loss in investment. The decision follows what the airline describes as the Austrian Government’s continued inaction on scrapping the national aviation tax and addressing high airport fees at Vienna Airport. Ryanair had previously proposed a €1 billion growth plan to the Chancellor in September, which aimed to increase Austrian traffic to 12 million passengers annually and add 10 new Boeing 737-8-200 “Next-Gen” aircraft by 2030. 

 

Tweet Picks

@AINonline Gulfstream Aerospace found its groove in the third quarter as business jet sales and shipments climbed 56% and 39%.

@AINonline Gulfstream Aerospace’s fleet of corporate, flight demonstration, and support airplanes have flown more than 3 million nm on sustainable aviation fuel blends.

@AINonline Honda Aircraft has completed type inspection authorization testing for the HondaJet Elite II’s Garmin Autoland system. The company also successfully conducted a test flight powered by 100% sustainable aviation fuel.

@AINonline Honeywell Aerospace recently launched its Alternative Navigation Architecture software solution, designed to ensure resilient navigation in environments where satellite signals may be spoofed, jammed, or inaccessible.

@AINonline Textron Aviation delivered 42 business jets in the third quarter, one more than the same period in 2024, while commercial turboprop deliveries surged to 39 aircraft, up from 25 a year ago.

 

Video Picks

Emirates Is Gearing Up for One of the Busiest Travel Periods of the Year

In this feature, Emirates offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the airline is preparing for one of its busiest travel periods. With strong demand across its global network, Emirates showcases its operational readiness from ramp operations to cabin services to ensure a smooth and seamless travel experience. The video highlights the airline’s commitment to efficiency, safety, and customer satisfaction as it scales up flight frequencies and staffing to meet peak travel demand while maintaining its hallmark service quality.

 

 

Inside Paul Griffiths’ Plans for the New Dubai World Central Airport

In this interview, Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths shares insights into the ambitious plans for the new Dubai World Central (DWC) airport, set to become one of the largest and most advanced aviation hubs in the world. Griffiths discusses the project’s vision to handle future passenger growth, integrate cutting-edge technology, and redefine the travel experience through innovation and efficiency. The video highlights how DWC will support Dubai’s long-term aviation strategy, positioning the city as a global leader in connectivity and airport infrastructure.

 

 

Ryanair DAC CEO Eddie Wilson at World Aviation Festival

In this interview from the World Aviation Festival, Ryanair DAC CEO Eddie Wilson discusses the airline’s latest strategic priorities, including its push toward digital innovation, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth. Wilson highlights Ryanair’s record passenger numbers, ongoing fleet expansion with the Boeing 737 MAX, and the company’s transition to mobile-only boarding. He also addresses challenges such as rising airport fees and regulatory hurdles, offering insight into how Ryanair continues to maintain its leadership as Europe’s most successful low-cost carrier.

 

 

Acumen’s Take 

This week’s developments highlight the aviation industry’s steady momentum across leasing, infrastructure, and airline operations, despite ongoing economic and regulatory complexities. Aircraft deliveries, strategic partnerships, and route expansions reflect a continued focus on fleet modernisation and market diversification. Ireland’s aviation ecosystem remains active from leasing growth to infrastructure innovation, reinforcing its global relevance. Meanwhile, evolving regulatory frameworks and new connectivity corridors demonstrate the sector’s adaptability and long-term resilience as it balances operational efficiency with sustainable growth priorities.