08 Aug 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 8th August 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
Etihad Airways Expands Dublin–Abu Dhabi Service to 10 Weekly
Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, is expanding its Dublin–Zayed International Airport, also known as Abu Dhabi International Airport, route to 10 weekly flights starting 1 July 2025. The move is part of the airline's broader expansion plans for 2025 and marks a significant increase from its current daily service.
Ethiopian Airlines' 737 MAX Touches Down in Dublin
Ethiopian Airlines took delivery of its 35th Boeing 737 MAX on 11 July 2025. The aircraft, registered as ET-BAK, arrived at Dublin Airport directly from Paine Field, Washington, at 10:21 AM local time, carrying the callsign 'ETH9201'.
Qatar Airways Deploys 777 on Doha–Dublin Service
Qatar Airways is increasing capacity on its Doha Hamad International Airport–Dublin service this summer with the introduction of the larger Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. The upgauge will take effect from 11 July 2025 and continue through the end of the summer season on 25 October 2025.
Ryanair Enhances Passenger Experience at BER
Ryanair passengers flying from Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) can now benefit from a faster and more convenient baggage drop-off process with the introduction of a new self-service solution in Terminal 2. In partnership with technology provider Airware, BER has installed four self-service kiosks designed specifically for Ryanair travellers. The system integrates with the airline's mobile app, enabling passengers to complete the entire baggage drop process using their smartphones.
Aircraft Update
OY-JYC Boeing 737-8KN Delivered to Jettime
Jettime took delivery of a Boeing 737-8KN, registered OY-JYC (MSN 40274), on 11 July 2025. The aircraft, previously registered as A6-FEY, was delivered to Madrid.
4X-AGY Airbus A320-214 Delivered to Arkia
Arkia took delivery of an Airbus A320-214, registered 4X-AGY (MSN 1480), on 31 July 2025. The aircraft, formerly registered as EI-IKG, was delivered to Tel Aviv.
Global Aviation News
Cerulean General Aviation Opens Renovated and Expanded FBO at Greenville-Spartanburg
Cerulean General Aviation has unveiled its newly renovated and expanded general aviation terminal at Greenville-Spartanburg Airport (KGSP). The facility now spans over 12,700 square feet, with nearly 8,000 square feet added during the upgrade. Enhancements include a modernised design, larger lobby and service areas, upgraded restrooms, and a variety of new amenities such as a refreshment bar, lounge seating, private seating areas, conference rooms, and a pilot lounge featuring quiet rooms and shower facilities, delivering an elevated experience for passengers, pilots, and flight crews.
EBACE to Alternate Between Geneva and Other Locations
The European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) will remain in Geneva for 2026 and will then rotate to other European cities in alternating years, according to a new announcement by the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA). While alternate locations are yet to be disclosed, EBAA has confirmed that the aircraft static display will return when the event takes place from 27–29 May next year.
England’s CAA Urges Airlines to Enhance Communication During Disruptions
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has called on airlines to significantly improve the way they communicate with passengers during flight disruptions. According to a recent report, only 10% of travellers feel fully informed when disruptions occur, while 93% expect airlines to share information about their rights at the first point of disruption. The CAA recommends a multi-channel communication strategy to better support passengers and enhance overall customer experience during operational challenges.
European Air Capacity and Demand Continue Modest Growth in June – IATA
According to IATA's latest report, European carriers recorded a 2.8% year-on-year increase in passenger demand for June 2025, while capacity grew by 3.3%, resulting in a strong load factor of 87.4%. Globally, total demand rose by 2.6%, with international traffic up 3.2% and domestic demand growing 1.6%. Despite geopolitical tensions dampening momentum, IATA Director General Willie Walsh highlighted that global load factors remain resilient at an average of 84.5%, reflecting strong passenger uptake amid capacity growth.
euroAtlantic Airways Adds First Airbus A330-200 to Fleet
euroAtlantic Airways (EAA) has announced a major fleet expansion milestone with the addition of its first Airbus aircraft, an A330-200 registered CS-TGD. Leased from AELF, the aircraft is powered by General Electric CF6-80E engines and becomes the sixth widebody in EAA’s fleet. Configured to seat 295 passengers—12 in Business and 283 in Economy.
Etihad Airways Debuts A321LR with Inaugural Flight to Phuket
Etihad Airways has taken a bold step in redefining narrowbody luxury with the launch of its first A321LR commercial service, operating from Zayed International Airport to Phuket. Flight EY414 marks the debut of a single-aisle aircraft tailored to deliver Etihad’s renowned premium experience on shorter routes. The A321LR features refined cabin design, elevated comfort across all classes, and high-speed connectivity, bringing the carrier’s award-winning widebody standards to medium-haul travel.
Gulfstream Delivers Strong Q2 Performance with Rise in Bizjet Revenues
General Dynamics’ aerospace division—home to Gulfstream Aerospace reported a strong second quarter, with revenues rising 4.1% year-on-year to $3.062 billion and profits surging 26.3% to $403 million. The performance was driven by increased deliveries, including 38 Gulfstream jets—32 large-cabin and six G280s—alongside a favourable delivery mix featuring 15 G700s.
Hubei International Cargo Airlines Officially Launched
Hubei International Cargo Airlines Co., Ltd has been formally established, marking a milestone as the first international cargo airline based in the Hubei region. Operating out of Huahu International Airport, the airline aims to enhance the global distribution of “Made in Hubei” goods.
IAG Reports Strongest-Ever Q2, Boosted by Transatlantic Demand
IAG’s share price has risen 4.8pc in early trading after reporting strong Q2 results, Aer Lingus made a profit of €135m.in April-June 2025 and €80m for the first half of the year as parent IAG reported its strongest ever Q2 on the back of Trans-Atlantic demand. Revenue for the first half of 2025 grew by 8.0pc to €15,906m, driven by high demand for the network and brands.
Irish Aviation News
Aer Lingus Boss Criticises ‘Obsession with Caps’ at Dublin Airport
Aer Lingus CEO Lynne Embleton has voiced strong opposition to newly imposed night-time flight restrictions at Dublin Airport, criticising what she calls an “obsession with caps.” The airline is reportedly exploring legal avenues to challenge the ruling by An Coimisiún Pleanála, which limits aircraft movements between 11pm and 7am to 35,672 annually, around 98 per night. The decision also bans use of the north runway from midnight to 6am except under exceptional circumstances, raising concerns over future growth and connectivity.
AFG Aviation Ireland Sells Boeing 767-381F(ER) to Samaritan’s Purse
AFG Aviation Ireland Limited has announced the sale of a Boeing 767-381F(ER), MSN 33510, to Samaritan’s Purse, a renowned global humanitarian aid organisation. The transaction bolsters Samaritan’s Purse’s ability to respond swiftly to crises by expanding its airlift capacity for critical relief missions. AFG highlighted the deal as a testament to its commitment to impactful partnerships, while Samaritan’s Purse praised AFG for its professionalism and support in enabling life-saving operations worldwide.
Azorra to Acquire 13 Embraer E190 Airframes and 36 Engines from JetBlue
Azorra has entered into a Sale and Purchase Agreement with JetBlue for the acquisition of 13 Embraer E190 airframes and 36 General Electric CF34-10E6 engines. The deliveries began in July 2025 and are scheduled to continue through Q2 2026. This strategic transaction strengthens Azorra’s portfolio of regional aircraft and engines, enhancing its position in the mid-life asset segment while supporting JetBlue’s fleet transition.
Bergerac Airport Could Face Closure if Ryanair Pulls Out Permanently
Christophe Fauvel, president of the Dordogne Chamber of Commerce (CCI), has warned that Bergerac Airport may be forced to shut down if Ryanair withdraws its services permanently. The airline recently announced it will suspend flights to Bergerac, Brive, and Strasbourg this winter following the French government's decision to increase aviation taxes.
Datalex to Exit Irish Stock Exchange After 25 Years
Travel technology firm Datalex has confirmed plans to delist from the Irish stock exchange after a 25-year presence, signalling a shift towards private ownership. The company will cancel its ordinary shares on the Euronext Growth market and is preparing to issue a circular to shareholders this week. An extraordinary general meeting is scheduled for 4 September in Dublin, where final approval for the transition will be sought.
Dublin Airport News – Summer Edition Now Available
Dublin Airport has released the Summer 2025 edition of its Community Newsletter. Distributed to over 50,000 homes in surrounding areas, the newsletter provides updates on airport operations, community initiatives, environmental progress, and upcoming events. It forms part of Dublin Airport’s broader commitment to community engagement and transparent communication with local residents.
Failure of Department of Economy to Produce Aviation Policy Holding Northern Ireland Back, Says DUP
DUP Economy Spokesperson Phillip Brett MLA has criticised the Department for the Economy for failing to deliver a long-promised aviation policy, stating it is stalling Northern Ireland’s economic progress. Speaking during a visit to Belfast International Airport, Brett acknowledged the airport's impressive growth and investment efforts but warned that government delays are undermining strategic development in the sector. He called for immediate action to align public policy with the aviation industry’s ambitions.
Growth on Transatlantic and European Network Delivers a Q2 2025 Operating Profit of €135 Million for Aer Lingus
Aer Lingus had an operating profit of €135 million for the second quarter of 2025, representing a significant improvement on Q2 2024, which had an operating profit of €91 million. This takes the operating profit for H1 2025 to €80 million, compared to €9 million for H1 2024. The Q2 2025 financial performance was driven by capacity growth and a robust revenue performance and also benefitted from favourable fuel pricing.
Ryanair Extends Paint Agreement with MAAS Aviation Until 2035
Ryanair has extended its long-standing partnership with MAAS Aviation in a deal that will see 500 aircraft repainted at MAAS facilities in Maastricht and Kaunas over the next decade. The agreement supports Ryanair’s ambitious fleet expansion to 800 aircraft, including 300 Boeing 737 MAX-10s. These next-gen jets offer enhanced efficiency—21% more seats, 20% lower fuel burn, and 50% reduced noise—aligning with the airline’s target to carry over 300 million passengers annually by 2034.
Tweet Picks
@skift Alaska Airlines Gets Boost From Premium, Expects Hit From IT Outage. "Alaska Airlines reported record revenue for the second quarter, getting a boost from premium seating and its loyalty program. "
@skift American Airlines CEO on AI Pricing After Delta Backlash: ‘I Don’t Think It’s Appropriate’. "American Airlines CEO Robert Isom sought to distance the carrier from growing backlash over the use of AI to set airfares"
@skift Southwest CEO Says Baggage Fees Are Pacing Toward $1 Billion in Annual Profit. "Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan said Thursday that the carrier has not experienced any negative impact from introducing baggage fees."
@skift Southwest Says Profit Fell, But New Baggage Fees Are Paying Off. "Still, the results were weak: The carrier reported a net income of $213 million for the second quarter, a 42% decrease from last year. Operating revenue of $7.2 billion was down 1.5%. "
Video Picks
Qatar Airways Orders Record Number of Boeing SC-Produced 787s
This video highlights Qatar Airways’ landmark order for Boeing 787 Dreamliners built at the manufacturer’s South Carolina facility. The record-setting deal reflects Qatar’s strategy to expand its long-haul capabilities with more fuel-efficient, next-generation aircraft. The video also delves into the significance of this order for Boeing’s Charleston production line and what it means for global aircraft manufacturing, employment, and U.S.-Middle East aviation ties.
Pellegrini: FAA Can Move Quickly If We Embrace Available State-of-the-Art Tech
In this video, FAA Acting Administrator Katie Pellegrini discusses how regulatory progress and operational efficiency can be significantly accelerated—if the agency fully embraces cutting-edge technologies already available in the market. From automation to AI and advanced air traffic systems, Pellegrini underscores the importance of leveraging innovation to modernise the U.S. aviation system, reduce delays, and enhance safety. The conversation points to a pivotal moment for regulatory evolution in a rapidly advancing global aviation environment
Willie Walsh’s Report on the Air Transport Industry at the 81st IATA AGM in New Delhi
In his address at the 81st IATA Annual General Meeting in New Delhi, IATA Director General Willie Walsh presented a comprehensive overview of the state of the global air transport industry. Highlighting resilience post-pandemic, Walsh pointed to robust demand recovery, strong passenger traffic, and sustained load factors. However, he also flagged persistent headwinds—ranging from rising costs and infrastructure limitations to regulatory hurdles and geopolitical instability. His message was clear: airlines must continue innovating, governments must enable progress, and collaboration is vital for sustainable industry growth.
Acumen’s Take
This brief paints a clear picture of aviation’s ongoing evolution across multiple fronts—from infrastructure and fleet modernisation to regional capacity shifts and policy bottlenecks. While European carriers navigate load factor resilience amid geopolitical tensions, Irish aviation is grappling with local regulatory constraints that threaten long-term competitiveness. Meanwhile, OEMs, lessors, and cargo players continue to invest in innovation, signalling sustained industry confidence. With digitalisation, environmental considerations, and global collaboration emerging as recurring themes, stakeholders must focus on agility and strategic foresight to ensure sustainable growth through the decade.
