23 Oct 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief -23rd October 2025
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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
SE-RGD Airbus A319-112 c/n 3346 Braathens International Airways Ferried to Castellón 10/10/25
An Airbus A319-112, registered SE-RGD (MSN 3346) and operated by Braathens International Airways, was ferried to Castellón on 10 October 2025. The aircraft movement aligns with the airline’s ongoing fleet management and maintenance schedule. Castellón Airport continues to serve as a popular location for storage, maintenance, and transition activities, supporting operators like Braathens in optimising aircraft utilisation and maintaining operational efficiency across their regional European network.
SE-RGE Airbus A319-112 c/n 2262 Braathens International Airways Ferried to Castellón 07/10/25
An Airbus A319-112, registered SE-RGE (MSN 2262) and operated by Braathens International Airways, was ferried to Castellón on 7 October 2025. The aircraft’s transfer is part of the carrier’s fleet transition and maintenance planning. Castellón Airport, known for its storage and MRO capabilities, continues to play a key role in supporting European operators like Braathens with efficient fleet management and operational flexibility.
Global Aviation News
AVi8 Air Capital Completes Business Case Review for Pan Am Relaunch
Miami, 9 October 2025 – AVi8 Air Capital has completed a detailed business case review for the potential relaunch of Pan American World Airways® as a scheduled commercial airline. The review follows a strategic partnership formed in June 2025 between Pan Am® Brands, part of Pan American Global Holdings® LLC, and AVi8 Air Capital to assess the viability of reviving the historic carrier. With the business case now finalised, Avi8 has initiated the FAA certification process, marking a significant step toward restoring one of aviation’s most iconic names to active service.
Boeing Expands Used Serviceable Material Capacity to Address Supply Chain Challenges
Boeing has announced an expansion of its Used Serviceable Material (USM) capacity as part of its efforts to mitigate ongoing supply chain challenges across the aerospace sector. The initiative aims to improve spare parts availability, enhance operational efficiency for airlines and MROs, and further sustainability goals by extending the lifecycle of aircraft components. Through innovative sourcing and refurbishment strategies, Boeing’s USM programme supports the evolving needs of its global customers while reinforcing its commitment to supply chain resilience and environmental responsibility.
Breeze Airways and AIP Capital Complete Secured Debt Financing
AIP Capital and Breeze Airways have finalised a $47.5 million secured debt financing agreement under AIP’s Private Credit strategy. The financing is backed by a diversified collateral package that includes Breeze’s spare parts inventory, a spare engine, and a flight simulator. This deal provides Breeze with additional financial flexibility to support its operational growth and network expansion, while highlighting AIP’s continued focus on asset-based aviation finance opportunities in the premium leisure travel segment.
Brussels Airlines Joins Lufthansa–Singapore Airlines Joint Venture to Boost Europe–Asia Connectivity
Brussels Airlines has joined the Lufthansa Group–Singapore Airlines Joint Venture, expanding travel options between Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. Effective 26 October 2025, passengers can book Brussels Airlines codeshare flights between Brussels and Singapore, operated by Singapore Airlines. The partnership—now in its eighth year—offers joint fares across 26 destinations in seven countries and includes enhanced intermodal connections via bus and rail to key European hubs. The move further strengthens the transcontinental collaboration and paves the way for additional group airlines to join in the future, enhancing global connectivity for travellers.
Corneel Koster to Become CEO of Virgin Atlantic in January
Virgin Atlantic has announced that Corneel Koster will take over as Chief Executive Officer on 1 January 2026, succeeding Shai Weiss after his seven-year tenure. Under Weiss’s leadership, the airline successfully navigated the pandemic and restructuring challenges, achieving a €23.6 million pre-tax profit in 2024—its first in eight years. Koster, who rejoined Virgin Atlantic in 2019 and has since led operations, customer experience, and digital transformation, is set to continue driving the airline’s growth and innovation into its next chapter.
Delta–Aeromexico Breakup Signals U.S. Protectionist Turn
The termination of the Delta–Aeromexico joint venture, effective 1 January 2026, is not expected to significantly affect consumers or transborder connectivity between the U.S. and Mexico. However, analysts caution that the move reflects a growing protectionist stance in U.S. aviation policy. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy’s order ending the partnership’s antitrust immunity has raised concerns that similar scrutiny could extend to other international alliances, potentially reshaping how global carriers collaborate on cross-border routes and market access.
flydubai to Elevate Economy Class Experience from November 2025
Dubai-based carrier flydubai has announced a major upgrade to its Economy Class offering, with all fares set to include complimentary meals and inflight entertainment starting November 2025. The enhancement is part of the airline’s continued investment in improving passenger experience and service quality across its network. This initiative marks a significant step in flydubai’s product evolution, reflecting its customer-first approach and commitment to delivering added value and comfort in response to evolving traveller expectations.
From Hangar to Air: The Changing Landscape of Engine Logistics
The aerospace logistics industry is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by record fleet expansion and the rising complexity of modern aircraft engines. According to Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook 2025–2044, the global commercial fleet is expected to reach nearly 50,000 aircraft by 2044 — almost double the 27,000 in service today. The freighter segment will also grow by 67%, from 2,375 to 3,975 aircraft. This surge is reshaping engine logistics, requiring more advanced supply chain solutions, greater investment in digital tracking, and increased capacity for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) to support next-generation engine technologies.
Frankfurt Airport’s New Terminal 3 Set to Open on April 22, 2026
Frankfurt Airport has confirmed that its much-anticipated Terminal 3 will officially open on 22 April 2026, marking a major milestone in one of Europe’s largest airport infrastructure projects. The announcement follows the completion of all regulatory inspections, including final fire safety approvals, allowing the facility to move into operational readiness. Designed to handle up to 19 million passengers annually, Terminal 3 will significantly expand Frankfurt’s capacity, featuring state-of-the-art technologies, enhanced passenger comfort, and improved sustainability measures. The terminal’s opening is expected to strengthen Frankfurt’s position as a leading European aviation hub.
United Expands Reach in ‘Trendsetting’ European Markets Next Summer
United Airlines is set to broaden its European network for summer 2026, targeting emerging and culturally vibrant destinations. The expansion includes new nonstop routes from U.S. hubs to cities such as Split, Bari, Glasgow, and Santiago de Compostela, alongside increased frequencies to key leisure markets. The airline aims to capture growing demand from travellers seeking authentic regional experiences beyond traditional capitals. United’s strategy reflects a shift toward connecting major U.S. gateways with trendsetting European destinations, balancing strong leisure demand with the efficiency of its transatlantic fleet operations.
Irish Aviation News
AerCap Signs Seven-Year Agreement with GE Aerospace for GE9X Engine Lease Pool Management
Dublin-based AerCap Holdings has entered into a seven-year agreement with GE Aerospace to provide lease pool management services for the advanced GE9X engine, extending its existing collaboration on GEnx, GE90, CF6, and CF34 models. The partnership enhances AerCap’s role as a key global engine leasing and asset management provider. Tom Slattery, Executive Vice President of AerCap Engines, stated that the agreement reinforces AerCap’s long-term relationship with GE Aerospace while expanding its servicing portfolio to include GE’s latest-generation technology, ensuring comprehensive support for engine operators worldwide.
Belfast’s Two Airports Record 2.6% Dip in August Passenger Traffic
Belfast’s two main airports collectively handled 914,125 passengers in August 2025, reflecting a 2.6% decrease compared to the same month in 2024 but remaining 2.5% higher than pre-pandemic levels. Belfast International Airport processed 695,823 passengers — down 1.8% year-on-year yet 8.8% above pre-pandemic volumes — with a rolling annual total of 6.6 million, up 2.8% on 2024. Combined annual passenger numbers for both airports reached nearly 8.95 million, showing continued recovery momentum despite a minor seasonal slowdown.
daa Awards €265 Million Contract for West Apron Vehicle Underpass at Dublin Airport
daa, operator of Dublin and Cork airports, has awarded a €265 million contract for the construction of the new West Apron Vehicle Underpass at Dublin Airport to a joint venture between Sacyr Ireland Ltd and Wills Bros Ltd. The project, part of the Airfield and Landside Civil Works Framework (Lot 2), represents a major milestone in Dublin Airport’s long-term infrastructure development plan. The underpass will improve operational efficiency by providing a dedicated route for airside vehicles, supporting future growth and enhancing safety across the airport’s expanding airfield network.
Etihad Airways to Exhibit at UAE Connect Event in Dublin
Etihad Airways has confirmed its participation in the upcoming UAE Connect event, organised by the UAE Embassy to promote tourism to the United Arab Emirates. Scheduled to take place on 30 October at The Fitzwilliam Hotel in Dublin, the event will bring together leading suppliers and tourism representatives to showcase travel opportunities across the UAE. Attendees can look forward to networking sessions, destination insights, and exclusive prizes, underscoring the growing tourism and trade links between Ireland and the UAE.
Five New Boeing Jets Push Ryanair’s 2025 Fleet Investment to Nearly €3 Billion
Ryanair’s fleet expansion continues at pace, with the delivery of five new Boeing 737 aircraft in October bringing its total deliveries for 2025 to 32 — valued at approximately $3.2 billion (€2.76 billion). The additions form part of Ryanair’s broader growth strategy to reach 300 million annual passengers in the coming years. CEO Michael O’Leary credited the steady pace of deliveries to close coordination with Boeing, as the airline and Aer Lingus both continue investing heavily in capacity and network growth, shaping the future of Irish aviation.
Flexjet Europe Applies for Irish AOC to Drive Regional Expansion
Flexjet Europe has applied for an Irish Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) as part of its strategic growth plans in the region, following the arrival of a new €21 million Embraer Praetor 600. The aircraft, part of a €6.5 billion order for 330 jets, expands Flexjet’s European fleet to 48. The nine-seat Praetor 600 offers a range of over 4,000 nautical miles, advanced cabin comfort, and satellite Wi-Fi. The move aligns with the company’s growing Red Label programme, which has seen a 15% increase in subscriptions, underscoring strong demand for premium private aviation services in Europe.
Irelandia Invests in Colombia’s First Seaplane Venture in 70 Years
Irish aviation investor Irelandia, founded by Declan Ryan, is backing its seventh airline venture with Alma Air, a new Colombian seaplane operator set to revive seaplane travel in the country after seven decades. The venture aims to enhance connectivity across Colombia’s vast waterways and remote regions. Irelandia’s portfolio already includes investments in carriers such as Ryanair, Tiger Airways, and Colombia’s Viva, as well as a minority stake in Avianca. The new project, led by Rupert Stebbings — former Viva director and seasoned stockbroker — highlights Irelandia’s continued commitment to fostering innovative, low-cost, and regionally adaptive air transport solutions globally.
Is Dublin Becoming the Next Gulf Gateway in Western Europe?
As the northern winter season approaches, Dublin Airport is positioning itself as a key emerging gateway between Europe and the Gulf. Passenger numbers have risen steadily, with over 26 million travellers passing through in the first nine months of 2025 — a 3.4% year-on-year increase. The airport’s expanding route network, connecting Europe with major long-haul destinations, continues to attract carriers seeking strategic access to Western Europe. With sustained growth and increasing international connectivity, Dublin is fast becoming a pivotal hub bridging transatlantic and Middle Eastern air traffic.
Pilot.ie Introduces Flyer Watches for Irish Aviators
Pilot.ie, Ireland’s premier online aviation and pilot supplies store, has expanded its offerings with the addition of Flyer Watches, including the AvGeek and Altitude collections. Designed in the UK by aviation enthusiasts, these timepieces combine functional precision with aviation-inspired aesthetics. The AvGeek range captures the spirit of flight with bold dials and classic motifs, while the Altitude series focuses on durability and performance, featuring precision chronographs and professional styling. This launch underscores Pilot.ie’s commitment to serving Ireland’s aviation community with products that blend practicality, craftsmanship, and passion for flight.
Ryanair to Increase Dublin–Zagreb Flights to Daily Next Summer
Ryanair has announced plans to boost its Dublin–Zagreb service from five weekly flights to a daily schedule for summer 2026, enhancing connectivity between Ireland and Croatia. The airline is also expanding its Zagreb–London Stansted route from 10 to 12 weekly flights, offering double daily services on most days, while its Palma de Mallorca route will rise from four to six weekly frequencies. The expansion reflects strong demand across Ryanair’s European network and its continued investment in growing travel options to key leisure and business destinations.
Tweet Picks
@adriancummins Minister needs to back Kenny Jacobs in the DAA. He has done a great job so far at Dublin Airport and more rapid progress is required.
@_ArjanMeijer Thrilled to announce a powerful partnership with TrueNoord, marked by a firm order for 20 #E195E2s and rights for 30 more #EJets. This confirms the E2 is the most efficient small narrowbody aircraft. Congratulations to both teams on this significant agreement!
@Airline_Weekly Dubai built the world’s busiest international airport. Now it has to make it smarter. This includes moving to one passenger airport, improving global travel standards, and integrating new solutions like eVTOLs for a future-proof transportation ecosystem.
@Airbus Congrats @FlySWISS on the delivery of your first #A350! Sporting its stunning "Wanderlust" livery, the #LongRangeLeader flagship aircraft will soon be flying passengers in superior comfort and connectivity in its beautiful #AirspaceCabin.
Video Picks
IndiGo Expands Europe Network | Flying to 45 Destinations Now vs 20–25 Post-COVID
This video explores IndiGo’s remarkable international expansion, highlighting how India’s largest airline has more than doubled its European network since the post-COVID recovery period. Now serving 45 destinations across the continent, IndiGo continues to strengthen its global footprint with new long-haul connections and strategic partnerships. The feature delves into the airline’s growing role in linking India with key European cities, its fleet modernisation strategy, and how its low-cost model is reshaping long-distance travel between the regions.
Jefferies' Sheila Kahyaoglu Looks Ahead to Airline Earnings
In this Bloomberg interview, Sheila Kahyaoglu, Aerospace and Defense Analyst at Jefferies, discusses expectations for upcoming airline earnings reports amid evolving market dynamics. She examines key performance indicators such as capacity growth, fuel costs, and demand trends, while analysing how macroeconomic conditions and shifting consumer behaviour may impact profitability across major U.S. and international carriers. Kahyaoglu also provides insights into airline pricing strategies, fleet utilisation, and the outlook for the sector as it navigates post-pandemic normalisation and ongoing cost pressures.
The State of the Airline Industry with United CEO Scott Kirby
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby joins CNBC to share his perspective on the current state and future trajectory of the global airline industry. In this insightful discussion, Kirby addresses the key challenges facing airlines today — including supply chain disruptions, pilot shortages, and sustainability targets — while outlining United’s strategic investments in fleet modernisation, infrastructure, and technology. He also discusses the evolving demand patterns post-pandemic and how United is positioning itself for long-term growth through operational efficiency and enhanced customer experience.
Acumen’s Take
This edition of the Daily Aviation Brief reflects an industry in a phase of accelerated transformation, balancing rapid growth with renewed focus on infrastructure, sustainability, and financial resilience. From major fleet deliveries and route expansions to strategic investments in training, technology, and MRO capacity, airlines and lessors alike are strengthening operational foundations for long-term competitiveness. As global passenger demand stabilises and supply chain constraints gradually ease, the sector’s attention is shifting toward efficiency, digitalisation, and cross-border partnerships, laying the groundwork for a more connected and sustainable aviation ecosystem.
