22 Oct 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief -22nd October 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
FedEx Launches New Strategic IND–Dublin Route
FedEx has inaugurated a new four-times-weekly Boeing 767-300F service (FDX5050/1) connecting Dublin, Ireland, with Indianapolis, Indiana, effective 29 September 2025. The new direct route enables shipments from Dublin to reach U.S. destinations a day faster by bypassing coastal congestion, while also offering American exporters improved access to Europe’s innovation hubs across technology, healthcare, and logistics sectors. FedEx Europe Regional President Wouter Roels highlighted Ireland’s strong export profile with nearly 68% of goods bound for the U.S. in early 2025, describing the new service as a milestone that strengthens transatlantic trade and connectivity for high-value industries.
IndiGo A320neo Arrives at Ireland West Airport
An IndiGo Airbus A320-271N, registered VT-IVU (MSN 8414), arrived at Ireland West Airport (Knock) on 3 October 2025, routing from Delhi via Istanbul as flight IGO9638 and landing at 12:29 local time, according to Skyliner Aviation. The 7.1-year-old aircraft first flew on 20 August 2018 and was delivered to IndiGo later that month. Planespotters data shows the airframe is currently stored at Knock as of 2 October 2025. The arrival highlights Ireland’s continuing role as a strategic location for aircraft storage, maintenance, and transition within the global leasing and aviation ecosystem.
SkyUp Airlines Adds Chișinău–Dublin Route
Ukrainian low-cost carrier SkyUp Airlines has announced the launch of a new twice-weekly service between Chișinău International Airport and Dublin, commencing 18 December 2025. Operating on Thursdays and Sundays with Boeing 737-700 aircraft, the route forms part of SkyUp’s 2026 network expansion, which includes 11 new destinations from Chișinău. The new service is expected to enhance connectivity for Ukrainian and Moldovan travellers, positioning Chișinău as a growing regional hub and strengthening air links between Eastern Europe and Ireland.
Aircraft Update
EI-ILO Boeing 737-8200 c/n 67125 Ryanair Boeing Field–Dublin 10/10/25 (Aircraft No. 203)
Ryanair has taken delivery of another Boeing 737 8200 “Gamechanger,” registered EI-ILO (MSN 67125), which arrived in Dublin on 10 October 2025 following its ferry flight from Boeing Field, Seattle. This marks the 203rd 737 MAX aircraft to join Ryanair’s growing fleet. The addition supports the airline’s ongoing fleet renewal strategy, offering improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and quieter operations all key to Ryanair’s sustainability goals and its efforts to expand route capacity across Europe.
EI-ILP Boeing 737-8200 c/n 67065 Ryanair Boeing Field–Dublin 10/10/25 (Aircraft No. 204)
Ryanair has expanded its fleet with the delivery of a new Boeing 737-8200 “Gamechanger,” registered EI-ILP (MSN 67065), which arrived in Dublin on 10 October 2025 after completing its ferry flight from Boeing Field, Seattle. This aircraft is the 204th 737 MAX delivered to the Ryanair Group and continues the airline’s modernisation drive focused on efficiency and sustainability. The 737-8200 variant offers up to 16% lower fuel burn and 40% reduced noise emissions, supporting Ryanair’s commitment to operating one of Europe’s youngest and most environmentally efficient fleets.
Global Aviation News
Azores Airlines Diaspora Fears Losing a Vital Lifeline to Their Homeland
Uncertainty looms over the future of Azores Airlines, the only carrier offering year-round direct flights between the Azores and North America, as its privatisation faces continued delays and growing financial pressures. A subsidiary of the SATA Group, the airline operates key transatlantic routes linking the islands with Boston, New York, San Francisco, Toronto, and Montreal vital connections for the Azorean diaspora. The potential disruption of these services has raised concern among communities that rely on the airline as a cultural and economic bridge between the Azores and North America.
A4E Says Airspace Management Could Cut Emissions by 20%
Airlines for Europe (A4E) has called on EU leaders to implement urgent airspace management reforms, stating that improved coordination could reduce aviation emissions by up to 20%. The appeal follows a summer marked by severe congestion, with delays reaching 12 million minutes across Europe in 2025. A4E also proposed extending the current three-hour passenger compensation threshold to five hours, a move it says could reduce delays by 40%. The group stressed that efficient airspace management is critical to achieving net-zero goals while maintaining competitiveness in Europe’s aviation sector.
IATA: U.S. “One Big Beautiful Bill” Brings Mixed Impact on Aviation Tax Credits
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has welcomed the U.S. government’s two-year extension of the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit until 2029, viewing it as a positive step for supporting biofuel and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production. However, IATA cautioned that the bill’s new feedstock sourcing rule limiting eligible inputs to materials produced only in the U.S., Canada, or Mexico could hinder global SAF supply chains. This restriction excludes widely used international inputs like used cooking oil, which play a vital role in SAF and renewable diesel production, potentially slowing the industry’s progress toward decarbonisation goals.
Jetstream Delivers ATR 72-600 to Sunlight Air
Jetstream Aviation Capital has completed the sale and delivery of one ATR 72-600 (MSN 1116) to Sunlight Express Airways Corporation (Sunlight Air), based in Manila, Philippines. Delivered on 19 September 2025, the aircraft will support Sunlight Air’s scheduled and charter passenger operations across the Philippines. This marks the airline’s first ATR 72-600, joining its existing fleet of three ATR 72-500s. The addition strengthens Sunlight Air’s regional network and enhances Jetstream’s growing presence in the Asia-Pacific turboprop leasing market.
Kalitta Operates Big Twin’s First Commercial Flight for DHL
Kalitta Air has successfully operated the first commercial flight of the Boeing 777-300ERSF “Big Twin,” marking a major milestone for the freighter conversion programme. The aircraft, registered N779CK, completed its inaugural service for DHL Express on 7 October 2025, flying from Cincinnati to Atlanta under flight number K4510 before returning the following day. Delivered in September as part of a seven-unit order, the 777-300ERSF is designed to replace Kalitta’s ageing Boeing 747 freighters. As the launch operator for AerCap Cargo’s conversion programme, Kalitta’s deployment of the Big Twin demonstrates its continued focus on fleet modernisation, fuel efficiency, and sustainable long-haul cargo operations.
Lufthansa Technik Completes 18-Year Constellation Restoration Project
Lufthansa Technik (LHT) has completed the restoration of a historic Lockheed 1649A Super Star Constellation after an 18-year effort, marking the end of one of the most complex projects in its history. Initiated in the mid-2000s by Lufthansa Group’s Deutsche Lufthansa Berlin-Stiftung (DLBS), the project aimed to return the aircraft to flying condition as part of the foundation’s vintage fleet, which also includes the iconic Junkers Ju-52/3 M. The restoration required extensive structural repairs, fabrication of rare components, and preservation of the aircraft’s original 1950s design, showcasing LHT’s engineering excellence and dedication to aviation heritage.
IATA and Oliver Wyman Highlight Urgent Need to Revive Aircraft Supply Chain
A joint report by IATA and Oliver Wyman, “Reviving the Commercial Aircraft Supply Chain,” outlines the persistent challenges facing the aerospace manufacturing industry as it struggles to meet record aircraft demand. The study identifies labour shortages, material constraints, and production inefficiencies as key obstacles preventing manufacturers from returning to pre-pandemic output levels. It calls for greater collaboration, digitalisation, and diversification within the supply chain to build resilience and long-term stability. The report emphasises that addressing these issues is critical for supporting fleet renewal, sustainability goals, and the aviation sector’s continued recovery and growth.
Silk Way AFEZCO and ExecuJet Partner on FBO Development at New Alat International Airport
Silk Way AFEZCO, part of the Silk Way Group, has entered into a strategic partnership with ExecuJet, a division of the Luxaviation Group, to develop a state-of-the-art Fixed Base Operator (FBO) facility at the new Alat International Airport, located south of Baku. The collaboration marks a key milestone in advancing business aviation infrastructure in Azerbaijan. Alongside the FBO project, the agreement includes an Aircraft Management contract for Silk Way AFEZCO’s new Gulfstream G500 the first of its kind in the country representing Luxaviation’s debut in the Azerbaijani market and strengthening its footprint in the Caucasus region.
SWISS Takes Delivery of Its First Airbus A350-900
Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS), part of the Lufthansa Group, has received its first Airbus A350-900, marking a major step in its fleet modernisation programme. The aircraft, the first of ten on order, will serve as SWISS’s new flagship for long-haul operations, operating routes from Zurich to key destinations such as Boston. The A350-900 is also the first SWISS aircraft to feature the airline’s new SWISS Senses cabin, offering a redesigned four-class configuration with enhanced comfort and privacy. The addition underscores SWISS’s commitment to sustainability, efficiency, and delivering a premium passenger experience across its global network.
EU Launches Progressive Rollout of the Entry/Exit System (EES)
From 12 October 2025, EU Member States have begun the phased implementation of the new digital Entry/Exit System (EES) across external borders. Over the next six months, the system will electronically register entry and exit data for non-EU nationals travelling for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Each Member State can determine the timing and locations for deployment, ensuring a smooth transition for border authorities and travellers. The EES replaces manual passport stamping with a modern biometric and automated process, aimed at enhancing border security, improving efficiency, and supporting better management of traveller data across the Schengen area.
TUI Anticipates Accelerated Growth in “Exotic” Long-Haul Destinations
TUI UK & Ireland Managing Director Neil Swanson has projected strong growth in the company’s long-haul “exotic” destinations, driven by new hotel developments and a major marketing campaign set for 2026. While traditional markets such as Italy, Greece, and Egypt remain robust, Swanson highlighted increasing demand for destinations like Oman, Zanzibar, Japan, and China. TUI plans to open five new hotels in Oman by winter 2027–28, reinforcing its vertically integrated model of owning and operating its resorts. The expansion aligns with TUI’s “Global Curated Leisure Marketplace” strategy, combining classic packages with flexible travel options to appeal to modern travellers seeking unique, high-quality experiences in emerging holiday hotspots.
Irish Aviation News
Caerdav Completes Airbus A320 Transition Check for Avolon Under New Maintenance Agreement
Caerdav has successfully completed its first Airbus A320 transition check for Dublin-based lessor Avolon, following the signing of a new General Maintenance Agreement. The aircraft, previously operating in Asia, underwent a full airframe inspection and the replacement of its second engine after a detailed borescope examination. The transition work prepares the aircraft for entry into service with Barcelona-based low-cost carrier Volotea. This milestone marks the beginning of an expanded maintenance partnership between Caerdav and Avolon, reinforcing Ireland’s global leadership in aircraft leasing and maintenance operations.
CDB Aviation Completes Delivery of Two Airbus A320neos to Azerbaijan Airlines
Dublin-based lessor CDB Aviation, a wholly owned subsidiary of China Development Bank Financial Leasing Co., Ltd., has completed the delivery of two new Airbus A320neo aircraft to Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL). The deliveries mark the successful conclusion of CDB Aviation’s mandate to support the carrier’s ongoing fleet modernisation efforts. As part of AZAL’s strategy to enhance efficiency and expand regional and international connectivity, the addition of these next-generation aircraft will strengthen operational performance while contributing to lower emissions and improved passenger experience.
Chambers Aviation: Finance & Leasing 2025 Global Practice Guide Highlights Ireland’s Legal Framework
The Chambers Aviation: Finance & Leasing 2025 Global Practice Guide provides a comprehensive overview of Ireland’s legal and regulatory framework governing aviation finance and leasing. It outlines key aspects of Irish law related to aircraft sales, leasing, registration, debt financing, and insolvency procedures, as well as the implementation of the Cape Town Convention. The guide reaffirms Ireland’s position as a global leader in aviation finance, offering a clear, high-level summary for stakeholders navigating complex cross-border aircraft transactions and asset management structures.
CityJet Secures Future as High Court Approves Rescue Plan
The High Court in Dublin has approved a rescue plan for CityJet, allowing Danish investor Lars Thuesen to acquire a 92% stake through his company JT3H with an investment of €3.2 million. Despite objections from current shareholder SARA, the ruling prevents the airline’s immediate wind-down and enables a financial restructuring valued between €38 €40 million. The plan, developed by examiners Kieran Wallace and Andrew O’Leary of Interpath Advisory, includes debt forgiveness and new capital injection to stabilise operations, ensuring CityJet’s continued presence in the European regional aviation market.
Contract Awarded for €265 Million Dublin Airport Underpass Project
daa, the operator of Dublin Airport, has awarded a €265 million contract for the construction of the new West Apron Vehicle Underpass to a joint venture between Sacyr Ireland Ltd and Wills Bros Ltd. Scheduled for completion by August 2030, the 1.1-kilometre twin-cell tunnel will connect Pier 3 to the West Apron, running beneath the Cross Runway (16/34) and four taxiways. The project will create a dedicated underground route for airside vehicles including cargo, fuel, and catering operations improving safety, efficiency, and connectivity across the airport’s expanding infrastructure as part of its long-term development strategy.
AirNav Ireland Mandate Raises Costs for General Aviation Operators
General Aviation operators across Ireland are facing rising costs after AirNav Ireland mandated that all airfield radio frequencies be converted to 8.33 kHz spacing by 12 December 2025, with non-compliant licences set for revocation. The directive, issued under EU Regulation (2017/373) as part of the Single European Sky initiative, aims to reduce frequency congestion by dividing traditional 25 kHz channels into narrower 8.33 kHz segments. While intended to improve efficiency and communication capacity in European airspace, the requirement has placed additional financial and logistical strain on small airfields and operators needing to upgrade their radio equipment to meet the new standard.
Ireland Positioned to Lead in the Engine MRO “Super Cycle”
A new report by Goodbody’s Head of Aviation and Travel Research, Dudley Shanley, highlights Ireland’s growing potential to become a global leader in the forthcoming engine Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) “super cycle.” As the aviation industry intensifies efforts to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, challenges around Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) scalability, technology readiness, and cost efficiency remain. However, the report identifies engine MRO as a major growth opportunity for Ireland, leveraging its strong aviation ecosystem, skilled workforce, and established leasing expertise to play a pivotal role in supporting the industry’s transition toward cleaner, more sustainable engine technologies.
Ryanair Opens €130 Million Training Centre in Krakow
Ryanair has inaugurated a €130 million aviation training centre near Krakow Airport, marking its largest investment in Central Europe to date. The state-of-the-art facility can accommodate up to 500 aviation professionals daily, providing advanced training for pilots, cabin crew, engineers, and ground staff. In addition to enhancing the airline’s operational capabilities, the centre will create over 150 skilled jobs in the region. Ryanair described the new hub as a “game-changing” development that reinforces its commitment to workforce development and continued expansion across Europe.
Spirit Airlines Transfers Order for 52 Airbus A320neo Aircraft to Dublin-Based AerCap
Spirit Airlines has finalised the transfer of its order for 52 Airbus A320 and A321neo aircraft to Dublin-headquartered AerCap Holdings, following approval from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York on 10 October 2025. The settlement brings closure to a dispute raised in August after AerCap terminated leases for 36 undelivered A320neo jets scheduled for 2027–2028 and declared defaults on 37 active leases. The agreement underscores AerCap’s continued leadership in the global aircraft leasing sector while supporting Spirit Airlines’ restructuring efforts amid financial challenges.
Tweet Picks
@Airbus In September 2025, we added ten # A350S to our order books and delivered 73 aircraft to 41 customers. This includes Air Niugini receiving its first #A220 and becoming the 25th global operator of the type!.
@ByERussell Airlines, at least full-service ones, are eager for more of Airbus' new long-range narrowbody, the A321XLR. At @AerLingus , "there [is] a lot more things we could do with more aircraft." But getting more XLRs, and the seats on them, is the challenge.
@ByERussell A new map from @AirCanada on the potential for its A321XLRs suggests flights to Berlin, Budapest, Luxembourg and Corsica could be in the offing The airline calls the plane a "very versatile machine."
@ByERussell Southwest Airlines is headed north: flights to Anchorage (ANC), Alaska, will begin in the first half of 2026. No word yet on what routes or how many flights Southwest will fly to ANC.
Video Picks
Gloria Guevara on the Global Tourism Landscape:
In this insightful conversation, Gloria Guevara, Chief Special Advisor at the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), discusses the evolving dynamics shaping global tourism. She highlights how sustainability, innovation, and collaboration between governments and private sectors are redefining travel in the post-pandemic era. Guevara also explores the importance of climate action, digital transformation, and inclusive growth in ensuring that tourism continues to drive global economic development while fostering cultural exchange and resilience.
ow Politics Are Upending Orders:
This video examines how geopolitical tensions and shifting trade policies are increasingly influencing global aircraft manufacturing and airline procurement decisions. It explores the impact of sanctions, export restrictions, and political alliances on the order books of major manufacturers such as Boeing, Airbus, and COMAC. Through expert insights and real-world examples, the discussion reveals how politics is reshaping aviation supply chains, altering delivery timelines, and driving airlines to rethink fleet diversification and international partnerships.
'Humble Beginnings': Irish Priest's 'Extra Special' Airport Dreams Now a Reality:
This touching feature tells the inspiring story of an Irish priest whose decades-long dream of building a regional airport has finally come true. The video follows his journey from modest beginnings to the realisation of a project that has transformed local connectivity and created new opportunities for the community. Through heartfelt interviews and archival footage, it showcases the priest’s determination, faith, and vision highlighting how one individual’s perseverance can leave a lasting legacy in regional development and aviation.
Acumen’s Take
The aviation industry continues to demonstrate resilience and adaptability across both global and Irish markets. On the international front, sustainable aviation, digital border reform, and fleet modernisation dominate the narrative, reflecting a sector in transformation as it balances recovery with future-ready investments. Meanwhile, Ireland remains firmly positioned at the centre of global aviation finance, MRO growth, and leasing innovation, reinforcing its strategic importance as a global hub. As airlines strengthen operational efficiency and infrastructure evolves, the interplay of technology, regulation, and sustainability will define the next phase of aviation’s evolution one marked by smarter networks, greener operations, and deeper cross-border collaboration.
