09 Jan 2026

Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 9th January 2026

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

ASL Airlines A330-300P2F Positions to DWC

ASL Airlines Ireland has begun positioning an Airbus A330-302(P2F), registered EI-LKD (MSN 1272), ahead of a planned ACMI deployment with Saudia Cargo, according to Flightradar24 data. The aircraft was ferried from Dublin to Shannon Airport on 27 November in Saudia Cargo colours under the callsign ABR330, routing westbound over the Atlantic. Between 27 and 29 November, the A330(P2F) undertook a series of crew training flights from Shannon, including sectors to Glasgow Prestwick, as preparations progressed for its upcoming cargo operations.

 

Hunnu Air Adds Embraer 195-E2 EI-HUU

Hunnu Air has taken delivery of its second Embraer 195-E2 aircraft, registered EI-HUU (MSN 19020196), further expanding its modern narrowbody fleet. The aircraft was delivered between 23 and 25 December 2025, routing from São José dos Campos via Recife, Las Palmas, Tekirdağ, and Almaty. It arrived at Chinggis Khaan International Airport, marking another step in the airline’s strategy to enhance regional connectivity with next-generation, fuel-efficient aircraft.

 

ITA Airways Retires Last Irish-Registered A330-200

ITA Airways retired its final Irish-registered Airbus A330-200 on 1 January 2026, closing the chapter on long-haul aircraft inherited from the former Alitalia fleet. The aircraft, EI-EJH (MSN 1135), named Marco Pantani, operated its final service as ITY615 from Boston to Rome Fiumicino, completing the 7h29m flight at 06:50 local time. The retirement marks the end of Alitalia-era widebodies in ITA service, with EI-EJH also carrying historical significance after transporting the late Pope Francis to Edmonton in July 2022.

 

Aircraft Update

A321F Delivered to Swiftair

An Airbus A321-231(F), registered EC-ORH (c/n 2713), has been delivered to Swiftair and arrived in Madrid on 18 December 2025, strengthening the operator’s dedicated freighter fleet as it continues to expand cargo operations. The A321F provides an efficient narrowbody solution well suited to European express and logistics networks, offering a balance of payload, range, and operating economics. The delivery highlights ongoing demand for converted A321 freighters as cargo operators optimize capacity for short- and medium-haul markets.

 

A320-232 Registered to WNG II Aircraft Leasing

An Airbus A320-232, registered OE-IIO (c/n 2524), has been registered to WNG II Aircraft Leasing at St Athan on 18 December 2025. The aircraft was previously operated as TC-FBR and now transitions into the lessor’s portfolio as part of ongoing fleet and asset management activity. The registration reflects continued secondary-market movement for mid-life A320-family aircraft, which remain attractive for leasing, conversion, or redeployment across multiple operator profiles.
 

Global Aviation News

American Airlines Scales Up Chicago O’Hare Operations

American Airlines is significantly expanding its presence at Chicago O’Hare with 100 additional daily departures to more than 75 destinations ahead of the 2026 spring break period. The expansion will lift ORD operations to nearly 500 daily departures in March, restoring pre-pandemic flying levels and marking the airline’s largest spring schedule at the hub. Capacity increases include doubled or tripled frequencies to key leisure and business markets, alongside new summer seasonal services to Paris and Dublin. The move represents a 30% year-on-year increase in spring departures, reinforcing O’Hare as American’s fastest-growing legacy hub.

 

Jambojet Expands Fleet with Additional Dash 8 Q400

Jambojet has added a new De Havilland Canada Dash 8 Q400 turboprop to its fleet, increasing its total aircraft count to 10 as it responds to strong growth in Kenya’s domestic air travel market. The aircraft, registered 5Y-JXO, was officially received at the airline’s main hub at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi.

 

LEVEL Launches First-Ever Nonstop Barcelona–Lima Service

LEVEL has announced a new long-haul route between Barcelona and Lima, Peru, set to launch on 3 June 2026 with three weekly flights. The Barcelona-based airline will be the only carrier offering direct, nonstop service on the route, strengthening Barcelona–El Prat’s intercontinental connectivity and LEVEL’s position as its leading long-haul operator.

 

UK Domestic Flight Costs Near Affordability Threshold, Says Loganair CEO

UK domestic air travel costs are approaching a critical point where fares risk becoming unaffordable for passengers, according to Loganair’s chief executive. Speaking on 10 December, the head of the Glasgow-based regional carrier warned that rising operating costs are putting sustained pressure on regional routes. Loganair, now one of the last major players in the UK regional market, is facing challenges linked to fuel prices, airport charges, and regulatory costs. The comments highlight growing concerns over the long-term viability of domestic air connectivity across the UK.

 

US Airlines Report Lower Profits in Q3 2025

U.S. scheduled passenger airlines reported an after-tax net profit of $1.6 billion in the third quarter of 2025, marking a decline compared with the same period in 2024. Pre-tax operating profit stood at $2.7 billion, down from $3.1 billion a year earlier, according to filings with the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. The results cover all 23 scheduled U.S. passenger airlines and reflect continued margin pressure across the sector. While profitability remains positive, the figures point to a more challenging operating environment compared with 2024.

 

US Tourism Outlook for 2026 Clouded by Policy Headwinds

The outlook for U.S. tourism in 2026 remains uncertain despite major global events such as the FIFA World Cup and America’s 250th anniversary expected to drive demand. Forecasts point to a modest rebound in international visitor numbers following a dip in 2025. However, tighter visa restrictions and increased scrutiny of travellers’ social media activity risk discouraging millions of potential visitors. The combination of strong event-led demand and policy-related friction is creating a more cautious growth outlook for the U.S. travel market.

 

Vueling Unveils 13 New Routes for Summer 2026

Vueling has announced the launch of 13 new routes as part of its Summer 2026 schedule, further expanding its short- and medium-haul network across Europe. The additions strengthen connectivity from key bases, targeting high-demand leisure and city destinations for the peak travel season. The expansion reflects Vueling’s focus on selective growth in core markets while responding to sustained summer demand. The new routes are expected to enhance network flexibility and reinforce the airline’s competitive position within the European low-cost segment.

 

Willis Lease Partners with Liberty Mutual Investments on $600m Engine Financing Platform

Willis Lease Finance Corporation has announced a new investment partnership with Liberty Mutual Investments to support its expanding aviation credit strategy. The platform will invest up to $600 million in loan and loan-like aircraft engine financings, an area Willis Lease has been actively building since 2021. The partnership is supported by a warehouse debt facility from Bank of America, providing additional scale and funding flexibility. The move underlines growing institutional appetite for engine-backed credit assets amid sustained demand across the global leasing market.
 

WTTC to Relocate Global Headquarters from London to Madrid

The World Travel & Tourism Council has announced plans to move its global headquarters from London to Madrid, citing Brexit-related mobility challenges as a key factor. The relocation strengthens WTTC’s engagement with Spanish stakeholders and further reinforces Madrid’s position as a major global travel and tourism hub. Madrid already hosts the headquarters of UNWTO, creating closer alignment between leading global tourism bodies. WTTC has been based in London since its founding in 1990, making this a significant shift after more than 35 years.
 

Irish Aviation News

Aer Lingus Targets 7,000 Tonnes of SAF in 2025

Aer Lingus has outlined plans to use 7,000 tonnes of Sustainable Aviation Fuel in 2025 as part of its strategy to reduce environmental impact. In a newly released behind-the-scenes video, the airline highlights how SAF adoption is being scaled across its operations. Produced from renewable sources, SAF can deliver up to 80% lower lifecycle carbon emissions compared to conventional jet fuel. The airline earlier marked a key milestone with its first SAF delivery at Dublin Airport, signalling a tangible step toward lower-emissions flying.

 

Aergo Capital Sells Boeing 737-800 to ORIX Aviation

Aergo Capital has completed the sale of one Boeing 737-800 aircraft to ORIX Aviation in a transaction announced on 23 December 2025. The aircraft, MSN 37790, is currently on lease to Transavia France, ensuring continued operational placement following the sale. Aergo said the deal reflects its ongoing portfolio management strategy and strong trading activity in the narrowbody market. Chief Executive Fred Browne welcomed the completion of the transaction and reaffirmed Aergo’s intention to pursue further opportunities with ORIX Aviation.
 

Ryanair Escalates Criticism of Austrian Aviation Policy

Irish airline Ryanair launched a scathing attack on the Austrian federal government under Chancellor Stocker and Transport Minister Hanke on Thursday. The low-cost carrier is demanding the immediate abolition of the €12 air passenger tax and a reduction in airport and air traffic control fees. Ryanair argues that these cost burdens are causing Austria to lose significant ground in international competition. While neighboring countries like Hungary, Slovakia, and Italy are cutting taxes, the Austrian market is stagnating. The airline predicts a decline in air traffic in Austria of at least 5 percent by 2026 if no political countermeasures are taken.

 

Spain Set to Become Ireland’s Third Largest Inbound Market in 2025

Spain is projected to overtake Germany as Ireland’s third biggest inbound tourism market in 2025, marking the first reshuffle of the top three source markets in four decades. Based on CSO data and year-end projections, Spain is expected to deliver around 550,100 visitors, ahead of Germany’s 427,500. Britain remains Ireland’s largest market with over 2.36 million visitors, followed by the United States at 1.29 million. The shift highlights the growing importance of Southern European demand in Ireland’s inbound travel mix.

 

Volotea Steps In at Asturias and Launches Brussels Service

Volotea is replacing Ryanair at Asturias Airport while expanding its footprint into Brussels for the 2026 summer season. The Spanish carrier will operate a new three-times-weekly nonstop route between Brussels Airport and Asturias, marking its first entry into Belgium’s main international hub. Until now, Volotea’s Belgian operations were limited to seasonal services from Charleroi. The move strengthens connectivity between northern Spain and central Europe and signals Volotea’s shift toward higher-profile hub airports.

 

British Airways Outlines “Better BA” Transformation Journey

British Airways CEO Sean Doyle says the airline is firmly focused on rebuilding and long-term improvement after the disruption of recent years, backed by a £7bn investment programme. More than 1,000 improvement projects are already underway, spanning operations, technology, fleet, lounges and customer service. BA reports stronger punctuality, improved resilience through AI and digital tools, and continued fleet modernisation, alongside investments in sustainability and SAF. Looking ahead to 2026, Doyle says the priority is to build on these foundations, raise standards further and embed a culture of continuous improvement across the airline.

 

Ireland–US Aviation Tensions Resurface in 1960s Analysis

A new analysis revisits the strained aviation relationship between Ireland and the United States during the late 1960s, when transatlantic landing rights became a point of serious contention. As Aer Lingus pursued ambitious expansion plans, including orders for Boeing’s proposed 2707 supersonic aircraft, the airline faced the real risk of losing access to New York JFK. US authorities questioned reciprocal access and market balance, creating diplomatic and commercial friction. The episode highlights how geopolitics and aviation strategy were tightly intertwined during a formative period for Ireland’s long-haul ambitions.

 

Ireland’s 2026 Travel Trends Point to More Choice, Higher Costs

Ireland’s 2026 travel outlook is set to be shaped by expanding route options, evolving travel habits, and rising prices, according to Eoghan Corry’s latest analysis. New destinations such as Albania and additional US routes from Dublin and Shannon highlight growing connectivity, while trends like shorter cruises, food-led travel, wellness experiences, and set-jetting continue to gain momentum. Technology and connectivity remain central, with inflight Wi-Fi and digital planning now standard expectations. However, reduced charter capacity and strong peak-season demand are expected to push prices higher, making early booking increasingly important for Irish travellers.

 

Dublin Airport Handles 69% of Ireland’s Air Passenger Traffic in 2025

Dublin Airport accounted for 68.9% of all passenger traffic to and from the island of Ireland in 2025, broadly in line with recent years and slightly below its 2023 peak. While Dublin remains the dominant gateway, regional airports showed strong momentum, with Cork, Ireland West Airport Knock, and Derry all on track for double-digit passenger growth. The figures highlight a gradual rebalancing of traffic, even as Dublin continues to handle more than two-thirds of national air travel. Pre-pandemic, Dublin’s share stood at 69.5%, underlining the long-term stability of its central role in Ireland’s aviation network.
 

Tweet Picks

@skift Last week at Skift Aviation Forum, JetBlue’s CEO said smaller airlines will keep struggle as long as regulators and airport authorities tilt the competitive landscape toward the biggest carriers.

@skift Mexico’s two largest low-cost carriers are moving to combine forces: Volaris and Viva Aerobus outlined a new company structure to create the Mexican Airline Group. It's a seasonal surprise that’s likely to turn silent nights into sleepless ones for some

@skift Recent data from the U.S. government shows international visitation dropped again in November, the 7th straight month with a year-over-year decline. A full recovery in tourism isn't expected until 2029 – and new fees and vetting requirements won't help.

@skift United’s chief customer officer wants to make flying more seamless. “We are going, throughout the entire journey, from the time that a customer may be shopping or planning to travel, all the way through baggage, to really transform what we’re doing.”

Video Picks

The State of the Aircraft Leasing Industry

In this video, SMBC Aviation Capital CEO Peter Barrett shares a timely overview of the global aircraft leasing landscape, addressing market cycles, demand recovery, and capital discipline. He discusses how lessors are navigating supply constraints, OEM delivery delays, and evolving airline balance sheets. The conversation also touches on portfolio strategy, risk management, and Ireland’s continued role as a global leasing hub. It offers a clear, executive-level perspective on where the leasing sector stands and how it is positioning for the next phase of growth.

 

 

Transport Minister Pledges to Assist Shannon Airport Growth

In this video, Ireland’s Transport Minister outlines the Government’s commitment to supporting Shannon Airport’s long-term growth and regional role. The discussion covers connectivity, infrastructure priorities, and the importance of balanced national aviation development beyond Dublin. Emphasis is placed on Shannon’s strategic value for transatlantic travel, regional employment, and economic resilience. The remarks provide policy-level context on how public support could shape the airport’s next phase of expansion.

 

 

US Airlines See Record Holiday Travel Even as Airfares Climb

This video examines how U.S. airlines recorded their strongest-ever holiday travel volumes despite higher ticket prices and ongoing cost pressures. It highlights robust passenger demand, capacity discipline by airlines, and consumers’ continued willingness to travel even as fares rise. The discussion also touches on yield improvement, load factors, and how peak-season demand is shaping airline revenue strategies. Overall, it offers a snapshot of a market where demand strength is offsetting affordability concerns.

 

Acumen’s Take 

Across this edition, a clear pattern emerges: demand remains resilient, but the industry is being reshaped by cost discipline, selective growth, and capital strategy rather than pure expansion. Airlines are concentrating capacity where returns are strongest, while lessors, financiers, and cargo operators continue to reposition assets to match shifting network economics. Policy, taxation, and sustainability choices are increasingly influencing traffic flows just as much as passenger demand. The next phase of aviation growth looks more measured, more targeted, and far more dependent on execution than optimism.