09 Dec 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 9th 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
Air Astana Adds Irish-Registered Airbus A321neo to Support Fleet Renewal
Air Astana has expanded its fleet with the arrival of a new Airbus A321neo, registered EI-KDJ (msn 12738), delivered directly from Hamburg to the airline’s Almaty hub on 17 October. The aircraft joins the carrier’s growing cohort of next-generation narrowbodies, reinforcing its long-term sustainability and efficiency goals. The airline noted that, despite ongoing industry challenges, it remains committed to a steady fleet renewal programme. Air Astana Group aims to increase its fleet to 84 aircraft by 2029, positioning the addition of the Irish-registered A321neo as a key step in supporting future growth across its regional and international network.
FlyOne Adds Dublin to Its Expanding Bucharest Network for Summer 2026
Moldovan low-cost carrier FlyOne is set to broaden its footprint in Romania with the launch of seven new direct routes from its Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport base for the Summer 2026 season. Among the newly announced destinations is Dublin, joining Barcelona, Frankfurt Main, London Luton, Paris CDG and Madrid. The expansion marks a significant strengthening of FlyOne’s Western European connectivity and positions Dublin as a key addition to its fast-growing network. The airline’s move reflects rising demand for affordable travel options between Romania and major European hubs, with FlyOne continuing to scale its operations through strategic route development.
FlyUs Appointed GSA for Riyadh Air in Ireland
FlyUs Aviation Group has been appointed General Sales Agent (GSA) for Riyadh Air across the United Kingdom and Ireland, effective 26 October 2025. The partnership aligns with Riyadh Air’s launch of its first scheduled daily service into London Heathrow, operated by a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner (HZ-RXX, msn 38892). As GSA, FlyUs will manage sales, customer support and capacity coordination in both markets, with all bookings handled through its local teams. The appointment strengthens Riyadh Air’s commercial presence as the carrier ramps up its international footprint ahead of wider network growth.
Aircraft Update
CN-RHK Boeing 737-8 Delivered to Royal Air Maroc
Royal Air Maroc has added a Boeing 737-8, registered CN-RHK (c/n 43229), following its delivery on 27 November 2025 after operating as A7-BSC. The aircraft completed its Doha–Casablanca ferry before joining the carrier’s narrowbody fleet. This induction supports Royal Air Maroc’s ongoing fleet modernisation plans as it strengthens capacity across regional and medium-haul networks.
EI-LKD Airbus A330-302F Joins ASL Airlines Ireland Fleet
ASL Airlines Ireland has ferried an Airbus A330-302F, registered EI-LKD (c/n 1271), on a Shannon–Liège–Dubai World Central routing between 27 and 28 November 2025. Previously operating as 2-JVDM, the freighter transitions into ASL’s expanding long-haul cargo fleet. The aircraft enhances the airline’s capacity for high-volume global freight operations as demand for widebody freighter lift continues to grow.
Global Aviation News
Airlines Welcome CAA Review as Heathrow Runway Debate Heats Up
Airlines have responded positively to the CAA’s decision to review Heathrow’s regulatory framework following government backing for the airport’s multi-billion-pound third runway plan. The consultation paper examines whether alternative regulatory models could better protect consumers, reflecting industry concerns around escalating project costs. Drawing on input from Heathrow, the Heathrow Reimagined coalition and international comparisons, the CAA aims to identify a more effective model, with a formal recommendation expected in spring 2026.
IATA Criticises APRA Report for Using Flawed Comparisons in EU261 Debate
IATA has pushed back against a recent APRA analysis on EU261, arguing that the report is built on unrealistic assumptions and contradicts the European Commission’s own data. Speaking at the Wings of Change Europe conference, Director General Willie Walsh stressed that passengers prioritise low fares, on-time performance and choice, not anecdotal policymaking. IATA says APRA’s comparison with the US market is misleading and ignores long-term delay trends, risking further distortion of an already complex regulatory discussion.
easyJet Holidays Reports 32% Profit Surge as Tour Operation Strengthens
easyJet Holidays has delivered a standout performance, posting a 32 percent rise in annual profits to £250 million and prompting the airline to raise future profit targets for the division. The strong result helped lift the wider group’s pre-tax profits by 9 percent to £665 million for the year to September. The figures highlight the growing importance of bundled flight-and-hotel products, with easyJet continuing to capitalise on robust leisure demand and the appeal of its integrated tour offering.
easyJet Confirms 2026 A320neo Deliveries Remain on Track
easyJet expects all 17 Airbus A320neo aircraft scheduled for delivery in 2026 to arrive on time, supporting its strategy to upgauge and improve fleet efficiency. The confirmation comes as the airline reports stronger full-year profits, boosted in part by the continued growth of its holidays division. The timely arrival of the A320neos will help easyJet enhance capacity, reduce fuel burn and further align its network with rising leisure demand across Europe.
Emirates Opens New Emirates World Retail Store in Riyadh
Emirates has launched a new Emirates World store in Riyadh, introducing its immersive, experience-led retail concept to the Saudi capital. The 288m² space offers a lounge-style environment where customers can explore Emirates’ products, receive tailored travel advice and interact with digital displays showcasing the airline’s premium offering. The opening, attended by senior Emirates leadership and Saudi government representatives, reinforces the airline’s commercial presence in the Kingdom and supports growing travel demand across the region.
Ethiopian Airlines Commits to 11 Additional Boeing 737 MAX Aircraft
Ethiopian Airlines has signed an agreement at the Dubai Airshow to purchase 11 Boeing 737-8 jets, expanding its fleet of next-generation narrowbodies. The order strengthens the carrier’s long-standing partnership with Boeing and supports its strategy to scale regional and international operations through Addis Ababa. Ethiopian says the new aircraft will play a key role in meeting its long-term growth vision, offering improved performance, fuel efficiency and enhanced passenger comfort.
Erno Hildén Takes Over as CEO of airBaltic
airBaltic has officially welcomed Erno Hildén as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 December 2025. Hildén emphasised his commitment to operational continuity, strengthening daily performance and advancing the airline’s long-term strategic development. He highlighted airBaltic’s importance to regional connectivity and economic growth across the Baltics, noting that his focus will be on supporting sustainable expansion as the carrier enters its next phase.
Irish Aviation News
AerFin Expands Global Support with New A320neo Inventory Availability
AerFin has enhanced its global aftermarket capabilities by launching dedicated A320neo inventory support, marking a significant step in meeting rising demand for next-generation narrowbody components. The new stock offering strengthens the company’s ability to provide fast, reliable material solutions for operators and MROs as the A320neo fleet continues to grow worldwide. This expansion supports AerFin’s broader strategy to offer end-to-end component coverage across modern platforms and reinforces Ireland’s role as a key hub in the global aviation supply chain.
Azorra Sells Two A330-300s to Xiamen Airlease
Azorra has completed the sale of two Airbus A330-300s (MSN 1432 and 1579) to China-based lessor Xiamen Airlease, with both aircraft remaining on lease to Sichuan Airlines. The deal marks Azorra’s first transaction with Xiamen Airlease and underscores the lessor’s growing engagement across the Asia-Pacific region. CEO John Evans highlighted the significance of the partnership and the role of Azorra’s multilingual team in executing cross-border transactions, reflecting the company’s expanding global trading capabilities.
CarTrawler to Power Ryanair’s New Integrated Car Rental Platform
CarTrawler has entered a new multi-year partnership with Ryanair to power the airline’s fully integrated car rental platform through its Connect technology. The collaboration brings car hire directly into Ryanair’s booking flow across its website and myRyanair app, offering travellers access to exclusive rates and a broader range of rental options. With Ryanair carrying more than 200 million passengers a year, the deal positions car rental as a stronger ancillary revenue stream while delivering a smoother, more connected digital experience for customers.
CDB Aviation Leases Two 737 MAX 8s to Ethiopian Airlines
CDB Aviation has signed lease agreements for two Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft with Ethiopian Airlines, marking the start of a new partnership between the Irish lessor and Africa’s largest carrier. The aircraft, scheduled for delivery in 2026, will support Ethiopian’s continued fleet expansion as it strengthens its position across the continent’s fast-growing aviation market. CDB Aviation CEO Jie Chen welcomed the airline to the company’s global customer base, highlighting the significance of the deal in reinforcing both organisations’ long-term growth ambitions.
DAE Signs Long-Term Lease Agreements with AJet for 10 Boeing 737-8s
DAE has finalised long-term lease agreements with AJet and Turkish Airlines for 10 new Boeing 737-8 aircraft, set to deliver across 2026 and 2027. The deal supports AJet’s continued fleet growth as Türkiye’s aviation market accelerates, with flight movements rising 5.7% in early 2025. CEO Firoz Tarapore highlighted the long-standing relationship with Turkish Airlines and noted that the fuel-efficient 737-8s will play an important role in meeting expanding domestic and regional demand.
Dublin Airport Eyes Further Growth After Record-Breaking Summer
Dublin Airport is charting an ambitious growth path after one of its most successful summers on record, handling more than 24 million passengers during the peak season. Vice President of Aviation Business Development Eoin McGloughlin noted that August even delivered the airport’s first-ever day with over 130,000 passengers. With strong operational performance underpinning this surge, Dublin Airport is now focusing on expanded infrastructure and long-term capacity planning to support continued demand.
Malta Air to Close Vienna Base in March 2026
Ryanair subsidiary Malta Air will shut its Vienna-Schwechat base in March 2026, withdrawing five of its 19 aircraft currently stationed there. Around 120 employees have already been registered with the Public Employment Service’s early warning system as part of the transition. The closure marks the end of one of Malta Air’s two Vienna bases and reflects a broader restructuring of the group’s operations in the Austrian market.
SMBC Aviation Capital Delivers Wizz Air’s 250th Aircraft
SMBC Aviation Capital has handed over an Airbus A321neo (MSN 12932) to Wizz Air, marking the airline’s milestone 250th aircraft. Delivered from Toulouse on 20 November, the jet is the first under a seven-aircraft sale-and-leaseback agreement between the two companies. The occasion was celebrated at Budapest Airport on 28 November, underscoring Wizz Air’s rapid fleet growth and SMBC Aviation Capital’s continued role in supporting the carrier’s expansion.
Tweet Picks
@AirCanada From takeoff to touchdown, we’re carrying Canadian pride sky-high. introducing our new celebratory livery that will fly @TeamCanada and @CDNParalympics to Milano Cortina 2026. #FlyTheFlag.
@AINonline Complacency is the biggest safety risk in Europe, according to speakers at EASA’s Annual Safety Conference held in the Danish capital Copenhagen earlier this month.
@AINonline Textron Aviation will end production of the Beechcraft Baron G58 piston twin and Bonanza G36 piston single once all current orders are fulfilled.
@AnMailleach I’d prefer a bill to remove the passenger cap. So would Lemass, I’d bet.
Video Picks
DOT Secretary Sean Duffy on Making Flying “Great Again” for Thanksgiving
This video features U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy discussing his plans to improve the flying experience ahead of the Thanksgiving travel rush. From passenger behaviour and airport security to airline service standards, Duffy outlines areas where he believes the system can be more efficient, more comfortable and, in his words, “more American.” His remarks offer a candid look at how the DOT is thinking about customer experience during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Dubai Airports CEO on Saudi Aviation’s Rise and the Future of Gulf Super Hubs
This interview dives into how Saudi Arabia’s rapid aviation expansion is reshaping competitive dynamics across the Gulf. Dubai Airports’ CEO reflects on what this shift means for hub strategy, passenger flows and long-term regional positioning. He also outlines Dubai’s vision for maintaining its global leadership as new players scale up aggressively. It’s a sharp, insightful look at how Gulf aviation is entering a new era defined by ambition, investment and evolving customer expectations.
Fireside Chat with Henning Krueger: How Technology Is Re-Shaping British Airways
This conversation with Henning Krueger offers a grounded look at how British Airways is using technology to modernise operations, elevate the customer experience and build a more resilient airline. From digital tools that streamline journeys to data-driven decision-making that strengthens day-to-day performance, Krueger explains how innovation is being embedded across the organisation. It’s a clear snapshot of how BA sees tech as the backbone of its next phase of transformation.
Acumen’s Take
The latest developments reflect an industry balancing growth ambitions with structural shifts in regulation, fleet strategy and customer expectations. Airlines are pushing ahead with renewal programmes, exploring new commercial models and expanding network footprints even as infrastructure constraints and policy debates continue to evolve. Lessors and OEMs remain central to this momentum, supporting operators with next-generation assets and flexible financing solutions. Across markets, the message is consistent: demand is resilient, investment is accelerating and the focus on efficiency, sustainability and digitisation is only strengthening. For stakeholders, staying ahead requires clear visibility, disciplined asset planning and informed decision-making—areas where Acumen continues to bring measurable value.
