08 Sep 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 8th 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:
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs
IrishAero News
ASL Airlines Ireland Retires Final Boeing 737 Classics
ASL Airlines Ireland, part of ASL Aviation Holdings DAC, has retired its last four Boeing 737 Classic freighters, closing the chapter on decades of operations with the type. The remaining 737-400SF aircraft have now been moved into storage at facilities across Europe, according to Planespotters.net. The retirement underscores the carrier’s transition toward newer, more efficient aircraft as it modernises its fleet to meet evolving operational and environmental demands.
China Airlines Positions Airbus A330-300 to Ireland West Airport
Ireland West Airport welcomed a notable widebody visitor on 26 August 2025 with the arrival of a China Airlines Airbus A330-302, registered B-18302 (MSN 0607). The aircraft, in basic colours, touched down at 09:41 local time after routing Taipei–Bangkok–Vienna–Knock under callsign CAL077, according to Flightradar24. Reported by Knock Airport–Runwayside, the movement highlights the airport’s ongoing role in accommodating positioning and technical flights for international carriers.
Flydubai Takes Delivery of Eighth 737 MAX via Shannon
Flydubai has expanded its fleet with the delivery of its eighth Boeing 737 MAX 8, registered A6-FQL (MSN 61021). The aircraft departed Boeing Field, Seattle, on 21 August at 18:14 under flight number FDB9741 and arrived at Shannon Airport the following morning at 10:20 local time. The stop at Shannon underscores the airport’s continuing importance as a key technical hub for transatlantic ferry flights supporting global fleet deliveries.
Aircraft Update
EI-HPI Airbus A320-271N c/n 8922 LATAM Airlines Chile Delivered to Santiago 01/09/25
LATAM Airlines Chile has received a new Airbus A320-271N, registered EI-HPI (MSN 8922). The aircraft was delivered on 1 September 2025 and ferried directly to Santiago, reinforcing LATAM’s ongoing fleet renewal programme. The addition of this fuel-efficient A320neo supports the carrier’s strategy to optimize operating costs while boosting capacity on both domestic and regional routes across South America.
OE-IFR Airbus A320-232 c/n 2156 DVB Bank Ferried to Sofia 22/08/25 ex 9H-VDF
An Airbus A320-232, registered OE-IFR (MSN 2156), was ferried to Sofia on 22 August 2025. The aircraft, formerly operating as 9H-VDF, is managed by DVB Bank and its repositioning underscores the continued activity of mid-life narrowbodies within the secondary leasing and trading market.
Global Aviation News
Flybondi Expands Fleet with ACMI Aircraft
Argentina’s low-cost carrier Flybondi has announced the addition of an Airbus A320 to its fleet under an ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, Insurance) arrangement. The aircraft, operated by Avion Express Brasil, marks Flybondi’s first ACMI-based expansion for the upcoming summer season. This model, widely adopted across the industry, enables airlines to boost capacity, increase flight frequencies, and enhance connectivity without long-term commitments. Flybondi aims to replicate the success of previous ACMI experiences as it gears up for peak travel demand.
Gulfstream Delivers First Ultra-Long-Range G800
Gulfstream has completed the first customer delivery of its new G800, now recognised as the world’s longest-range business jet. With the ability to fly non-stop for up to 8,200 nautical miles, the G800 sets a new benchmark in private aviation. The aircraft, which received FAA certification on 16 April 2025, was completed at Gulfstream’s Appleton, Wisconsin facility. This milestone underscores Gulfstream’s leadership in the ultra-long-range market, offering unmatched performance for global business and luxury travel.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Delta Air Lines Celebrate Milestone
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Delta Air Lines are marking a century of shared growth, tracing their roots back to 1925 when Atlanta city leaders envisioned aviation as the city’s future and Huff Daland Dusters—Delta’s predecessor—pioneered aerial crop dusting and mail delivery. Today, that vision has flourished: Hartsfield-Jackson has held the title of the world’s busiest airport for 26 of the past 27 years, handling more than 100 million passengers annually, while Delta has become the airport’s largest hub carrier, flying 200 million passengers a year worldwide and topping U.S. airline rankings for seven consecutive years.
Hong Kong’s Long-Haul Draw Lifts Cathay Pacific Carryings
Cathay Pacific reported a strong July performance, with passenger carryings rising nearly 25% year-on-year, driven by peak summer demand for long-haul travel to and from Hong Kong. For the first seven months of 2025, the airline’s passenger numbers were up 27% compared with the same period in 2024, with Cathay Group handling 3.2 million travellers overall, including 680,000 via HK Express. However, demand for flights to Japan remained muted amid rumours of earthquakes, though Cathay noted a gradual recovery in August bookings.
IAI First in the World to Convert Boeing 777 Aircraft into Freighter
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has achieved a historic milestone with the successful conversion of a Boeing 777-300ER into a freighter, becoming the first company globally to complete such a transformation. The aircraft, capable of carrying up to 100 tonnes of cargo, has received Supplemental Type Certificates (STC) from both the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Israel (CAAI). Marketed as the B777-300ERSF, the freighter is set to redefine the air cargo sector by offering enhanced capacity, speed, and efficiency.
IATA Report Underscores Aviation’s Key Role in Rwanda’s Growth
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released its Value of Air Transport study in Kigali, emphasising aviation’s vital contribution to Rwanda’s economy. Using 2023 data, the report shows the sector supported USD 160 million in economic activity equivalent to 1.1% of national GDP, while generating 42,000 jobs and facilitating the transport of 16,500 tonnes of cargo. IATA commended Rwanda for embedding aviation into its tourism strategy, investing in modern infrastructure, and adopting global safety and passenger data standards, positioning the country as a growing regional hub.
JD Eyes A330 Freighters
JD Airlines appears to be turning toward A330 freighters for its next phase of expansion and could become China’s newest operator of the Airbus medium widebody. The young carrier has been recruiting A330-rated pilots, engineers and other technical personnel online for the past couple of months.
JetBlue Becomes First Airline for Amazon’s Project Kuiper
JetBlue has been announced as the launch airline partner for Amazon’s Project Kuiper, the low Earth orbit satellite network designed to deliver fast, reliable global connectivity. The partnership will equip JetBlue aircraft with Kuiper-powered in-flight Wi-Fi, providing passengers with enhanced internet access even on routes that extend beyond traditional network coverage. Project Kuiper, which also aims to serve households, schools, hospitals, and emergency services, represents a step-change in how aviation integrates satellite technology to improve passenger experience and operational efficiency.
Irish Aviation News
Bigger is Better: Irish-led SMBC Aviation Capital Leads $7.4bn “Transformational” Acquisition
SMBC Aviation Capital, led by CEO Peter Barrett, has confirmed a landmark $7.4 billion acquisition, positioning the Dublin-based lessor at the forefront of industry consolidation. The deal reflects Barrett’s earlier predictions that mid-sized leasing firms, typically managing 100–200 aircraft, would eventually be absorbed as the sector concentrates around global mega-lessors.
Boeing, Macquarie AirFinance Announce Order for 30 737 MAX Airplanes
Dublin-based lessor Macquarie AirFinance has expanded its investment in Boeing’s 737 MAX programme with an additional order for 30 737-8 aircraft, bringing its total backlog for the type to 70. The deal, recorded in Boeing’s July Orders & Deliveries update under “unidentified customers,” builds on Macquarie’s first-ever direct purchase from Boeing in 2024. With a portfolio of more than 300 owned and committed aircraft placed with 84 airlines in 48 countries, the order reflects Macquarie’s strategy to grow its presence in the single-aisle leasing market and meet strong global demand for fuel-efficient narrowbodies
Chorus Aviation to Sell Three Dash 8-400 Aircraft and Completes Elisen Acquisition
Chorus Aviation has confirmed an agreement to sell three Dash 8-400 aircraft, with expected net proceeds of around USD 20 million. The aircraft will exit the fleet under the terms of the Capacity Purchase Agreement between Jazz Aviation LP and Air Canada, with sales anticipated to close by year-end, subject to customary conditions. In parallel, Chorus has also finalised its previously announced acquisition of Elisen & Associates Inc., marking a further step in the company’s strategy to streamline its fleet and expand its service capabilities.
Cork Airport Business Park Marks 25 Years of Growth
Cork Airport Business Park is celebrating 25 years since its launch in 2000, having established itself as a hub for both multinational corporations and local enterprises in southwest Ireland. Hosting global names such as Analog Devices, Amazon, and IBM, the park has provided a strategic base outside Dublin for companies seeking connectivity and convenience.
Deucalion Aviation Extends 737-800 Leases with Norwegian
Dublin-based Deucalion Aviation has confirmed the long-term lease extension of two Boeing 737-800 aircraft with Norwegian Airlines, effective 21 August 2025. Bjorn Batenburg, SVP Airline Marketing at Deucalion, highlighted the enduring partnership, noting the aircraft’s reliability and productivity over many years of operation with Norwegian. The extension underscores Deucalion’s expertise in managing assets through market cycles, while delivering consistent value for investors and maintaining strong ties with leading carriers.
Kenny Jacobs, CEO of daa, Speaking at Routes World
daa CEO Kenny Jacobs will represent Dublin Airport at this year’s Routes World in Hong Kong, where he will discuss airport infrastructure and the operational challenges of managing a major international hub. Alongside Jacobs, daa’s Aviation Business Development team will engage with global airline partners to explore new route opportunities and highlight Dublin Airport’s role in supporting growth and connectivity. The event offers a key platform to showcase Ireland’s gateway as a strategic partner for airlines worldwide.
Ryanair and Booking Holdings Sign ‘Landmark’ Partnership Agreement
Ryanair has announced a landmark partnership with Booking Holdings, the global travel giant behind Booking.com, Kayak, Priceline, and Agoda. Through this agreement, Ryanair flights across its network of more than 235 destinations will now be available to customers booking via these platforms. The deal not only expands Ryanair’s global reach but also gives Irish travellers greater convenience and choice when planning trips, highlighting the airline’s continued push to strengthen distribution and accessibility in international markets.
Spirit Airlines Blames Dublin-Based AerCap for Bankruptcy Filing
Spirit Airlines has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection for the second time in less than a year, with court documents pointing to Dublin-based lessor AerCap as a key trigger. The Florida-based ultra-low-cost carrier claimed that unexpected lease termination notices from AerCap disrupted its operations and finances, pushing it back into insolvency just five months after its previous restructuring. The development highlights the critical role of aircraft leasing agreements in airline stability and places fresh focus on the influence of Irish lessors in the global aviation sector.
Tweet Picks
@aeroroutes IndiGo Extends Boeing 777 Operations to Feb 2026.
@airinsight Nearly month-end, and it looks like Renton has hit its rate again. Well done @BoeingAirplanes.
@aviator_aero Spirit Airlines: Commences voluntary restructuring process to implement financial and operational transformation to redesign network, optimize fleet and realign strategy with evolving marketplace.
@cathaypacific We are now 100% well connected!. After completing over a hundred of inflight Wi-Fi installations in our fleet, we are proud to be one of the very few airlines in the world with high-speed.
Video Picks
Austin City Council Approves 10-Year Airline Use and Lease Agreement
This video covers the Austin City Council’s approval of a new 10-year airline use and lease agreement at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. The deal outlines financial terms and operational commitments between the airport and its partner airlines, ensuring stability for long-term planning and expansion. The agreement is designed to support the airport’s continued growth, enhance passenger experience, and align investments with Austin’s rising status as a major U.S. aviation hub.
Avia Solutions Group ― The World’s Largest ACMI Provider
This video highlights Avia Solutions Group’s position as the world’s largest ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) provider. It showcases how the group supports airlines globally by offering flexible leasing solutions that allow carriers to quickly scale capacity without long-term commitments. The feature also explores Avia’s expansive fleet, international reach, and its role in meeting the rising demand for ACMI services across both passenger and cargo markets, underlining the group’s pivotal place in the aviation ecosystem.
Dubai Duty Free Reports Record Sales in August 2025
This video covers Dubai Duty Free’s record-breaking sales performance in August 2025, showcasing the retailer’s resilience and strong demand from international travellers. It highlights the surge in passenger footfall through Dubai International Airport and the strategic promotions that helped drive record revenue figures. The report underscores how duty-free retail continues to play a vital role in enhancing the passenger experience while contributing significantly to Dubai’s aviation and tourism sectors.
Acumen’s Take
This edition of the Daily Aviation Brief reflects how aviation continues to balance growth opportunities with structural and financial pressures across both global and Irish markets. Fleet modernisation, landmark acquisitions, and new technology adoption are driving long-term competitiveness, while challenges around cost management, consolidation, and regulatory dynamics remain evident. The interplay between lessors, carriers, and regulators highlights Ireland’s outsized influence on the sector, with developments ranging from leasing strategies to policy milestones. On the global stage, innovation in freighter conversions, satellite connectivity, and long-haul demand reinforces the industry’s resilience and adaptability. Collectively, these trends underscore a sector preparing for sustained expansion while navigating volatility with pragmatism and scale.
