24 Oct 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief -24th 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:
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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
A6-FPG Boeing 737-8 c/n 61019 FlyDubai Delivered Boeing Field–Shannon–Dubai International 10–11/10/25
FlyDubai has taken delivery of a new Boeing 737-8, registered A6-FPG (MSN 61019), which was ferried from Boeing Field to Dubai International via Shannon between 10 and 11 October 2025. The latest addition reinforces FlyDubai’s ongoing fleet modernisation and expansion strategy, supporting the airline’s growing regional and long-haul network. The new-generation 737-8 offers enhanced fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and improved passenger comfort — aligning with FlyDubai’s commitment to sustainability and operational excellence.
SE-RGC Airbus A319-112 c/n 3445 Braathens International Airways Ferried to St Athan 07/10/25
An Airbus A319-112, registered SE-RGC (MSN 3445) and operated by Braathens International Airways, was ferried to St Athan on 7 October 2025. The movement forms part of the airline’s ongoing fleet transition and maintenance programme. St Athan, known for its aircraft storage and MRO capabilities, continues to serve as a key hub for European operators like Braathens, facilitating maintenance, inspections, and reconfiguration activities to optimise fleet performance and asset management.
Global Aviation News
EBAA and GAMA Oppose New European Aviation Fuel Tax
The European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) and the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) have voiced strong opposition to the European Commission’s proposed fuel tax under the revised Energy Taxation Directive (ETD). The new measure seeks to impose a levy of €0.40 ($0.46) per litre of jet fuel on aircraft with fewer than 19 seats, covering both commercial and non-commercial operations. Industry groups argue the tax would double fuel costs for many operators, disproportionately impacting smaller business aviation firms and undermining the sector’s economic and connectivity contributions. Both associations have urged policymakers to reconsider the proposal, citing its potential to stifle innovation and limit sustainable aviation investments within Europe’s general and business aviation markets.
European Airline CEOs Urge EU Leaders to Reform Policies and Protect Competitiveness
Europe’s leading airline CEOs have urged the European Union to implement urgent regulatory reforms to safeguard the region’s aviation competitiveness and connectivity. In a collective statement, the executives criticised the lack of progress on key priorities — including reducing operational costs, improving airspace resilience, and accelerating the transition to net zero — more than a year into the current EU term. Representing an industry that contributes over 4% of EU GDP and supports 12 million jobs, the leaders warned that European carriers are increasingly disadvantaged compared to global competitors operating under less stringent regulations. They called for a unified policy framework that balances sustainability goals with business viability, ensuring Europe remains a leader in global aviation.
Delta Sees ‘Opportunity’ as Q3 Corporate Sales Rebound
Delta Air Lines reported a 4% revenue increase in Q3 2025, fuelled by a sharp rebound in corporate travel demand following a sluggish first half of the year. CEO Ed Bastian attributed the growth to the resurgence of business travel after a “spring swoon,” when tariff concerns and economic uncertainty temporarily paused corporate bookings. The recovery in premium and loyalty segments also contributed to the airline’s stronger financial performance. Delta executives highlighted this rebound as an “opportunity” to reinforce the carrier’s leadership in the business travel segment, noting that corporate clients have resumed travel at scale after months of deferred activity.
easyJet Announces Ambitious Growth Plans in Morocco
easyJet has unveiled major expansion plans in Morocco with the launch of a new three-aircraft base in Marrakech, set to open in spring 2026. In partnership with the Moroccan National Tourism Office, the airline will offer a record 4 million seats in its first year of operations from the new base. The move will create around 100 direct jobs and thousands of indirect opportunities, reinforcing easyJet’s position as the second-largest carrier in Marrakech. The airline also announced four new routes — from Hamburg, Lille, Strasbourg, and Geneva (to Tangier) — bringing its total Moroccan network to 46 routes across 24 destinations. The expansion underlines easyJet’s long-term commitment to strengthening connectivity and tourism between Europe and Morocco.
Hong Kong Unveils Complimentary Half-Day Tour Programme for Stopovers
Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has introduced a free half-day tour programme for passengers transiting through the city with layovers longer than seven hours, effective 9 October 2025. The initiative offers two themed itineraries — the “Heritage and Local Lifestyle Citywalk”, featuring Wong Tai Sin Temple and Sham Shui Po markets, and the “Victoria & West Kowloon Waterfront Journey”, showcasing the West Kowloon Cultural District and Avenue of Stars. Organised by Airport Authority Hong Kong and Trip.com, the tours include a professional guide at no cost. Complementing Cathay Pacific’s stopover programme, which offers one- to seven-day extensions from €200, the initiative aims to boost tourism and enrich the stopover experience by giving travellers a taste of Hong Kong’s vibrant culture and heritage.
Iberia Evaluates Bringing Airbus A350 Base Maintenance In-House
Madrid-based Iberia is considering expanding its in-house maintenance capabilities to include Airbus A350 base maintenance, as the airline’s widebody fleet continues to grow. According to Natalia Martínez del Río, Iberia’s Airframe Services Director, the airline is currently assessing whether to integrate A350 maintenance into its existing operations at La Muñoza facilities. The move would enhance Iberia’s self-sufficiency in managing its next-generation aircraft, streamline turnaround times, and strengthen its MRO capabilities within the IAG Group. While still under evaluation, the plan reflects Iberia’s broader strategy to optimise operational efficiency and reduce reliance on external maintenance providers as its long-haul fleet expands.
Jetstream Aviation Capital Delivers ATR 72-600 to Loganair
Jetstream Aviation Capital has announced the delivery of an ATR 72-600 passenger aircraft (MSN 1126) on lease to Loganair, headquartered in Glasgow, Scotland. Delivered on 3 October 2025, the aircraft marks the fourth unit in a multi-aircraft ATR 72-600 agreement between the two companies. The aircraft will support Loganair’s scheduled and charter operations across the UK, further strengthening its regional connectivity. This delivery continues a partnership spanning over a decade, during which Jetstream has leased both Saab 340 and Saab 2000 aircraft to Loganair, reflecting the long-term collaboration between the lessor and Scotland’s largest regional airline.
Spirit Airlines Secures Court Approval for $475 Million DIP Financing and Agreement with AerCap
Spirit Aviation Holdings, parent company of Spirit Airlines, has received approval from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York for a $475 million debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing facility, provided by existing bondholders. The court also approved Spirit’s key agreement with AerCap Ireland Limited, its largest aircraft lessor, marking a pivotal step in the airline’s Chapter 11 restructuring process. The financing will provide critical liquidity to support ongoing operations while Spirit works toward stabilising its financial position and developing a long-term strategy for recovery. These developments underscore the company’s efforts to maintain fleet continuity and safeguard operational performance during the restructuring period.
SWISS Welcomes Its First Airbus A350 at Zurich Airport
Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) celebrated the arrival of its first Airbus A350, registered HB-IFA, at Zurich Airport on 9 October 2025, marking a milestone in the airline’s fleet modernisation strategy. The aircraft, which departed from Airbus’s Toulouse facility earlier that day, was greeted by aviation enthusiasts upon landing at 15:25 local time. Representing a new era for the carrier, the A350 combines cutting-edge technology, fuel efficiency, and passenger comfort. It is also the first aircraft to feature SWISS’s new “SWISS Senses” cabin concept—designed to enhance the inflight experience through refined aesthetics, advanced design, and the signature Swiss attention to quality and hospitality.
TUI UK Chief Highlights Industry Resilience Amid Financial Uncertainty
TUI UK & Ireland Managing Director Neil Swanson has emphasised the resilience of the UK travel industry despite economic uncertainty and rising capacity across the market. Speaking during a Travel Weekly webcast, Swanson acknowledged that while travellers are booking later due to financial caution ahead of the November Budget, overall demand for holidays remains strong. He described the market as “very competitive” but reaffirmed that the travel sector continues to thrive as consumers prioritise leisure spending. Swanson’s remarks underscore the enduring strength of the UK tourism and aviation industries, even amid fluctuating economic conditions.
United Marks Operational Recovery at Newark Hub
United Airlines is celebrating a major operational turnaround at its Newark Liberty International Airport hub following months of disruption earlier in the year caused by runway repairs and technology outages. The FAA’s temporary flight cap and an expedited runway completion schedule have since helped stabilise operations, leading to a smooth and largely delay-free summer season. During a celebratory event at Hangar 54, CEO Scott Kirby praised Newark as United’s “crown jewel,” noting that the airport recently achieved eight consecutive days without a ground stop — a significant milestone reflecting improved coordination and operational efficiency.
Irish Aviation News
Irish Air Corps Takes Delivery of Third Airbus C-295
The Irish Air Corps has taken delivery of its third Airbus C-295 at Casement Aerodrome, marking another milestone in Ireland’s ongoing fleet modernisation efforts. The handover ceremony was attended by Ms. Jacqui McCrum, Secretary General of the Department of Defence, representing Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Simon Harris, alongside Brigadier General Rory O’Connor, General Officer Commanding the Air Corps. The new aircraft joins two previously delivered C-295s, strengthening Ireland’s airlift, maritime surveillance, and humanitarian response capabilities as part of a long-term investment in national and regional security infrastructure.
MAAS Aviation Extends Airbus Aircraft Painting Contract in Mobile, Alabama
Dublin-based MAAS Aviation has extended its contract with Airbus for another five years to continue painting A320 and A220 aircraft at its Mobile, Alabama facility. The site, expanded in 2024 to include five dedicated paint bays, is capable of handling up to 200 aircraft annually, supporting Airbus’s growing single-aisle production programme. Geoff Myrick, Executive Vice President OEM at MAAS Aviation, praised the partnership, highlighting the company’s commitment to quality and operational excellence as key factors in its enduring relationship with Airbus. The renewal reinforces MAAS Aviation’s status as a trusted global supplier in aircraft painting and finishing services.
MONTE Finances Three Reims-Cessna F406 Aircraft for RVL Aviation
Dublin-based MONTE has announced the financing and delivery of three Reims-Cessna F406 aircraft to UK operator RVL Aviation through long-term lease agreements. RVL Aviation, a specialist in airborne survey, aerial surveillance, and charter services, will deploy the aircraft across the UK to support expanding mission-critical operations. The partnership highlights MONTE’s continued focus on providing sustainable and flexible financing solutions for regional and special-mission aviation. By supporting RVL’s fleet expansion, MONTE reinforces its commitment to enabling essential service providers to operate efficiently in demanding environments.
Portugal on Course for 550,000 Trips from Ireland in 2025
Portugal is set to welcome over 550,000 Irish travellers in 2025, reflecting sustained demand for leisure and business travel between the two countries. The forecast underscores Portugal’s growing popularity among Irish holidaymakers, bolstered by strong airline connectivity and year-round tourism offerings.
Rumours of EasyJet Takeover Reflect Industry Consolidation Predicted by Michael O’Leary
Renewed takeover speculation surrounding EasyJet has reignited investor interest, with reports suggesting Swiss shipping giant MSC may be exploring a potential acquisition — news that sent EasyJet’s shares surging by 12%. Industry observers view the rumours as part of the broader post-pandemic consolidation trend long predicted by Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary, who has repeatedly said that Europe’s airline market will eventually be dominated by a few major players. While MSC’s involvement remains uncertain, analysts suggest that IAG, the parent company of British Airways, could emerge as a more credible buyer. The speculation underscores the shifting dynamics within the UK and European aviation markets, where competitive pressures and strategic mergers continue to reshape the sector’s future.
Ryanair to Operate Airbus A320 on Belfast–Mallorca Route in Summer 2026
Ryanair has announced that it will operate an Airbus A320 on its new Belfast International–Palma de Mallorca route for the Northern Summer 2026 season, beginning 1 April 2026. The service will run once weekly, marking part of a broader network expansion from Palma, which also includes new routes to Glasgow Prestwick, Verona, and Warsaw Modlin. The move reflects Ryanair’s flexible fleet deployment strategy and continued investment in connecting key leisure destinations across Europe ahead of the busy summer travel period.
“SAF Supply Is Too Limited and Too Expensive,” Says Ryanair CEO Eddie Wilson at World Aviation Festival 2025
Speaking at the World Aviation Festival 2025 in Lisbon, Ryanair CEO Eddie Wilson highlighted that while the airline’s latest-generation aircraft consume 16% less fuel, the broader aviation industry remains constrained by the high cost and limited availability of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Addressing over 4,500 global aviation leaders, Wilson emphasised the urgent need for greater investment and policy support to scale SAF production and reduce costs. The event also featured Portugal’s Secretary of State for Infrastructure, Hugo Espírito Santo, who unveiled plans for a new Lisbon airport—five times larger than the current hub—and confirmed TAP Air Portugal’s partial privatisation, signalling major infrastructure and policy shifts in European aviation.
Third-Time Lucky: CityJet Rescue Plan Approved Despite Shareholder Opposition
CityJet’s long-awaited rescue plan has been approved by the High Court, securing the airline’s future after months of uncertainty. The €40 million restructuring package, described as a “hostile takeover” by its existing shareholder, will see Danish aviation investor Lars Thuesen acquire a 92% stake through his company JT3H with a €3.2 million equity injection. Thuesen, who also owns Jettime and holds a stake in Air Baltic, is expected to bring operational stability and financial discipline to the regional carrier. The plan, developed by Interpath’s Kieran Wallace and Andrew O’Leary, outlines €30 million in cost savings and working capital over three years—marking the airline’s third attempt at survival and a pivotal moment in Ireland’s regional aviation landscape.
Three New KSG Dining Outlets Open in Dublin Airport Terminal 1
Irish catering group KSG has opened three new food outlets—San Marco Italian, Kimbok Korean Chicken, and Boxx Asian Fusion—in Terminal 1 at Dublin Airport, creating 75 new jobs. The openings, completed by late summer 2025, significantly expand the airport’s dining offerings, catering to a diverse range of passenger tastes. Founded in 1923, KSG serves over 15 million meals annually across 125 locations nationwide. In a statement, the company reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Irish farmers and local producers, emphasising its focus on culinary excellence and sustainable sourcing within Ireland’s growing airport hospitality sector.
The Shannon Airport Group Wins National Sustainability Award and Secures Three New Industry Nominations
The Shannon Airport Group has been recognised nationally for its leadership in sustainability, operations, and customer experience. The Group won the Chambers Ireland Environment & Biodiversity Award for its Thady’s Hill conservation grazing project, a key initiative under its five-year Biodiversity Action Plan. Alongside this win, Shannon Airport Group has been nominated for three additional industry awards celebrating excellence in operational performance and customer service. These accolades highlight the Group’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and its role in setting high standards for airport management in Ireland.
Wizz Air Launches Recruitment Drive in Ireland with Free Pilot Training Offer
Wizz Air has announced its first-ever recruitment drive in Ireland, offering free pilot training as part of its plan to recruit and train 1,200 new pilots across Europe by 2028. The budget airline, which currently does not operate flights to Ireland, will participate in Pilot Careers Live at Dublin’s Convention Centre on October 18, where it will engage with aspiring aviators. Wizz Air joins major exhibitors such as Aer Lingus, Ryanair, Atlantic Flight Training Academy, and IALPA, as well as Munster Technological University, highlighting Ireland’s growing prominence as a hub for aviation education and career development.
Tweet Picks
@CAPA_Aviation "What other airlines do you admire and why?". When asked by American Express, Qantas CEO Marcus reveals his picks; Scandinavian for punctuality, Emirates for network, United for digital, and Delta for baggage tracking.
@FirstSquawk Boeing’s 777X is now expected to enter commercial service in early 2027, with potential non-cash accounting charges ranging from $2.5 billion to $4 billion due to continued program delays and reach-forward losses. Key customers, including Lufthansa and Emirates, are adjusting fleet plans, while Boeing seeks to offset financial impacts with production gains on other programs under CEO Kelly Ortberg.
@HeathrowAirport Welcome to the family, @IndiGo6E. From 26 October, IndiGo will launch direct, daily flights between Mumbai and Heathrow. This marks IndiGo’s first service to our airport, bringing even more choice for travellers between India and the UK.
@IATA Even if you halve the number, it's still a massive drag on the industry." IATA Director General Willie Walsh discusses how airlines are facing more than $11 billion in extra costs from supply chain disruption this year. #IATAWSOC.
Video Picks
Delta Sees Robust Demand Amid Premium Focus
In this Bloomberg interview, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian discusses the airline’s continued strong performance, driven by sustained demand for premium travel and loyalty-based revenue. Bastian explains how Delta’s focus on product differentiation, network reliability, and customer experience has positioned it for long-term growth despite broader industry challenges. The conversation also explores corporate travel recovery, evolving passenger preferences, and Delta’s investments in fleet modernisation and digital innovation to enhance value for both business and leisure travellers.
Tell Me Why: ‘oneworld is extremely important for us’ — Turkka Kuusisto
In this episode of Tell Me Why, Finnair CEO Turkka Kuusisto shares insights into the airline’s partnership strategy and the vital role of the oneworld alliance in supporting its global connectivity and competitiveness. Kuusisto discusses how alliance membership enhances Finnair’s ability to serve passengers across continents through network synergies, shared lounges, and integrated loyalty benefits. He also reflects on Finnair’s strategic priorities, including sustainability, operational resilience, and adapting to shifting travel demand across Europe and Asia.
The Spirit of Flight Lives On at Dubai Airshow 2025
This official highlights video captures the energy, innovation, and global collaboration showcased at the Dubai Airshow 2025, one of the world’s premier aerospace events. Featuring stunning aerial displays, breakthrough aircraft unveilings, and insights from industry leaders, the video celebrates the continued advancement of aviation technology and sustainability. From next-generation air mobility to defence innovation and commercial partnerships, the Dubai Airshow underscores how the spirit of flight continues to inspire progress and unite the global aerospace community.
Acumen’s Take
The narrative this week is one of disciplined expansion under tighter constraints. Airlines and airports are still investing new fleets, bases, routes, and facilities yet every move is filtered through supply chain reality, cost inflation, and regulatory pressure. Loyalty economics and premium mix continue to underpin profitability while corporate travel normalizes and leisure demand remains resilient. Infrastructure and MRO capacity are emerging as competitive differentiators, with Ireland particularly well positioned across leasing, finance, and technical services. Sustainability remains a strategic imperative, but feedstock, SAF cost, and policy consistency are the bottlenecks to scale. Net-net: winners are those pairing growth with operational rigor, diversified financing, and pragmatic decarbonisation pathways.
