02 Oct 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief -2nd 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
Aer Lingus Welcomes Fourth Airbus A321XLR
Aer Lingus has taken delivery of its fourth Airbus A321XLR, registered EI-XLU (MSN 12142), as part of its ongoing North American hub expansion strategy at Dublin. Named “St Sourney / Sárnait”, the aircraft was ferried from Airbus’s Hamburg-Finkenwerder facility to Dublin Airport on 12 September 2025 under callsign EIN2395, arriving at 20:45 local time. EI-XLU entered commercial service a week later on 19 September, first operating the Dublin–Paris Charles de Gaulle rotation (EIN524/5), followed by a flight to Munich (EIN356/7). The addition of another A321XLR strengthens Aer Lingus’s ability to offer long-range, fuel-efficient narrowbody operations across its European and transatlantic network.
Aloha Air Cargo Adds Ex-Irish Boeing 737 Classic
Aloha Air Cargo has expanded its freighter fleet with the addition of a Boeing 737-490(F), registered N440KH (MSN 28889), which arrived in Honolulu on 7 September 2025. The aircraft, formerly registered EI-GUB, was previously operated by Italy’s Poste Air Cargo. Built in 1998, the 737-400 originally entered service with Alaska Airlines as N795AS before passing through Flair Airlines and later undergoing freighter conversion in Tampa during 2020–2021. It joined Poste Air Cargo in early 2021, where it operated until July 2025. Its delivery to Aloha underscores the continuing utility of converted 737 Classics in regional cargo operations, particularly within the Hawaiian Islands’ interisland network.
IndiGo A320neo Touches Down at Ireland West Airport
IndiGo’s Airbus A320-271N, registered VT-IZI (MSN 8570), arrived at Ireland West Airport (Knock) on 14 September 2025 after routing from Bengaluru via Istanbul as flight IGO9638. The 6.9-year-old aircraft first flew in November 2018 and was delivered the following month, before being listed as stored at Knock upon its arrival. IndiGo currently operates a vast fleet including 183 A320neos, 149 A321neos, and three A321-200(P2F)s, alongside ATRs and A320ceos. The stop at Knock reflects the airline’s ongoing fleet activity amid one of the industry’s largest order books, including more than 500 A320neo family aircraft and 69 A321XLRs, supporting its long-term expansion strategy.
Aircraft Update
EI-HSF Bombardier CRJ900 c/n 15089 CityJet Delivered Maastricht–Copenhagen 24/09/25 (ex OE-IID)
CityJet has taken delivery of a Bombardier CRJ900, registered EI-HSF (MSN 15089), on 24 September 2025. The aircraft was ferried from Maastricht to Copenhagen, marking its transition from its previous registration OE-IID. The addition strengthens CityJet’s regional jet fleet, which continues to play a central role in operating wet-lease services across Europe on behalf of major network carriers.
CN-RHI Boeing 737-8 c/n 62878 Royal Air Maroc Delivered Doha–Casablanca 25/09/25 (ex A7-BSG)
Royal Air Maroc has expanded its narrowbody fleet with the delivery of a Boeing 737-8, registered CN-RHI (MSN 62878), on 25 September 2025. The aircraft, formerly operated as A7-BSG, was ferried from Doha to Casablanca ahead of its entry into service. The addition underscores the airline’s fleet renewal and modernisation strategy, enhancing efficiency and supporting growth across its regional and international network.
VT-IZI Airbus A320-271N c/n 8570 IndiGo Ferried to Ireland West Airport 14/09/25
IndiGo’s Airbus A320neo, registered VT-IZI (MSN 8570), was ferried to Ireland West Airport on 14 September 2025 following its departure from Bengaluru. The 6.9-year-old aircraft, delivered in late 2018, is part of IndiGo’s extensive A320neo family fleet, which forms the backbone of its domestic and international operations. Its arrival at Knock highlights the carrier’s ongoing fleet activity as it manages one of the industry’s largest order books and prepares for sustained long-term growth.
Global Aviation News
Emirates Welcomes Its First Retrofitted Boeing 777 in Africa
Emirates has introduced its first retrofitted Boeing 777 to Africa, with the aircraft now operating to Johannesburg and Cape Town. The carrier hosted a guided tour in South Africa on 19 September 2025, showcasing next-generation cabin interiors, including the debut of its Premium Economy product in the region. The move underlines Emirates’ commitment to the South African market, bringing enhanced passenger comfort and modernised design to two of its most important African gateways.
Jet2’s ‘Pragmatic’ Winter Capacity Move Reflects Market Uncertainty
Jet2 has reduced its planned winter 2025/26 capacity by 200,000 seats, citing a “less certain consumer environment.” The cut lowers its schedule from 5.8 million to 5.6 million seats, though this still represents a 9% year-on-year increase. Industry observers have called the move “pragmatic,” highlighting broader concerns over a potentially challenging autumn and suggesting other major carriers may follow with similar adjustments.
KF Aerospace Acquires Third ATR 72-500F for Purolator Feeder Network
KF Aerospace has added a third ATR 72-500F (MSN 685) to its fleet as part of a renewed 10-year contract with Purolator to operate the BC Feeder Network. The contract requires three aircraft—two containerised and one bulk-loaded—to replace the ageing Convair 580 fleet previously in service. The ATR 72-500F offers improved efficiency and reliability, ensuring Purolator’s regional cargo operations across British Columbia remain robust for the decade ahead.
Kaunas Airport Completes €17.7m Terminal Expansion
Kaunas Airport has completed a €17.7 million terminal expansion, boosting annual capacity to two million passengers. The project added 4,400 sqm of space, with new eastern and western wings featuring glass facades, larger baggage claim areas, and enhanced dining and retail options. The upgraded terminal can now process over 800 passengers simultaneously, handle six flights per hour, and benefits from automated passport controls and advanced baggage screening technology.
KLM Warns Dutch Air Tax Hike Will Lead to 'Unaffordable Airfares'
KLM has cautioned that a further rise in the Dutch air passenger tax, projected to generate around €1.1 billion annually from 2027, will make airfares “unaffordable” for many Dutch travellers. A study commissioned by the airline found that 74% of passengers would consider departing from Belgium or Germany instead, with 87% believing tax revenues should fund sustainable aviation initiatives. CEO Marjan Rintel highlighted that since the tax was introduced in 2021, cross-border departures from Düsseldorf and Brussels have already surged significantly, underscoring the competitive pressures on Dutch airports.
LATAM Group Orders Up to 74 Embraer E195-E2s to Boost Regional Connectivity
LATAM Airlines Group has signed an agreement with Embraer for up to 74 E195-E2 aircraft, comprising 24 firm orders and 50 purchase options. Deliveries of the firm aircraft will begin in the second half of 2026, initially entering service with LATAM Airlines Brazil before potentially expanding to other affiliates. The investment will enable LATAM to add up to 35 new destinations across its network of 160, reinforcing its commitment to regional connectivity and efficient fleet modernisation in South America.
Udvar-Hazy: Legacy Carrier Pricing Supporting European Low-Cost Operators
Air Lease Corporation executive chairman Steven Udvar-Hazy has highlighted the contrasting strategies of legacy carriers in the US and Europe when competing with low-cost rivals. Speaking on 17 September 2025, he noted that while US majors adopt aggressive pricing and capacity tactics, European legacy airlines often maintain higher fare levels, inadvertently creating room for budget operators to thrive. His comments underscore the structural advantages enjoyed by European low-cost carriers, which continue to expand market share against less flexible network airlines.
United CEO Suggests American Could Lose O’Hare Hub as Flights Surge
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has suggested American Airlines may be forced out of its Chicago O’Hare hub as United ramps up operations to 600 daily flights. The carrier expects over 100 new aircraft deliveries in 2026, including the Airbus A321XLR for new European routes, alongside plans to hire at least 2,400 pilots next year. Kirby’s comments highlight United’s aggressive growth strategy at one of America’s busiest hubs, intensifying competitive pressure on American Airlines at its historic Chicago stronghold.
Uzbekistan Airways Places Landmark Order for up to 22 Boeing 787s
Uzbekistan Airways has announced its largest-ever aircraft order, committing to acquire up to 22 Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The deal includes 14 firm 787-9s and options for eight additional units, strengthening the flag carrier’s position as Central Asia’s first 787 operator. The order will modernise Uzbekistan Airways’ long-haul fleet, support its international expansion strategy, and, according to Boeing, sustain nearly 35,000 jobs across the United States.
Irish Aviation News
Girls in Aviation Day 2025 Inspires Future Professionals at Shannon
Shannon Aviation Museum hosted Girls in Aviation Day 2025 on 20 September, welcoming more than 50 young women and girls to explore careers in aviation. Organised by the Women in Aviation International (WAI) Ireland Chapter, the event featured hands-on activities and insights designed to showcase aviation as a professional pathway rather than just a passenger experience. Supported by Stellaer 212 and ASG, the initiative marked its 11th year, underlining Ireland’s commitment to inspiring and empowering the next generation of aviation talent.
Irish Airlines Boost Connectivity to Lanzarote with Eight New Weekly Flights
Aer Lingus and Ryanair have expanded services to Lanzarote with eight additional weekly flights, reflecting strong Irish demand for the Canary Islands. Aer Lingus will add one rotation from Cork and five from Dublin, while Ryanair introduces an extra service from Dublin and another from Shannon. Ireland, with a population of just 5.4 million, has now overtaken Germany as Lanzarote’s second-largest source market, with 226,000 Irish visitors recorded by the end of July 2025.
Irish Skies Podcast Marks Four Decades of Shannon ATC Centre
The latest Irish Skies Pod episode (No. 13) reflects on the history of Shannon’s Air Traffic Control Centre from 1984 to 2025 through the career of Mick Campbell. Recruited at just 18, Campbell recalls his move to Shannon and a career spanning over four decades, concluding on 17 September 2025. Featuring vintage video and photographs of Shannon Airport, Shannon Town, and ATC facilities in Dublin and Shannon, the episode offers a unique personal insight into Ireland’s aviation heritage and the vital role of ATC in connecting Irish skies.
Aena Responds to Ryanair in Heated Dispute Over Airport Fees
Spain’s state-owned airport operator Aena has strongly criticised Ryanair amid an escalating dispute over airport charges. In a pointed statement, Aena praised Ryanair’s operational excellence but accused the airline of “dishonesty” in its communications policy, calling the contrast “striking in contemporary business history.” The clash highlights ongoing tensions between Europe’s largest low-cost carrier and one of the continent’s busiest airport operators, as both sides battle over the costs and policies shaping passenger traffic in Spain.
Michael O’Leary Urges Swift Action to Scrap Dublin Airport Passenger Cap
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has renewed calls for the Irish Government to abolish the 32 million passenger cap at Dublin Airport before the end of December 2025. He criticised what he termed “blatant inaction,” noting delays despite commitments in the Programme for Government to address the restriction. While Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien is preparing legislative options for Cabinet, O’Leary warned that postponing action until next year would further undermine Ireland’s connectivity and growth potential.
Priority 1 Logistics Acquires European Cargo and Launches Leasing Platform in Shannon
Priority 1 Logistics has completed the full acquisition of European Cargo Limited and announced the launch of a new leasing platform based in Shannon. The deal, supported by $230 million in secured financing, enabled the shareholder buyout, refinancing of existing debt, and the planned conversion of the remaining fleet into cargo aircraft. CEO Doug Brennan said the move strengthens Priority 1’s position in the freighter market while leveraging Shannon’s established role as a hub for aviation leasing and cargo operations.
Tourism Ireland Reports 4% Growth in Summer 2025 Air Capacity
Tourism Ireland has confirmed that summer 2025 air seat capacity rose by 4% year-on-year, with winter capacity set to grow by 12%. Between January and July, 3.47 million overseas visitors generated €2.86 billion for the economy, broadly in line with 2023 figures but showing a softer performance compared to 2024. The increase in seat availability reflects airlines’ confidence in sustained demand, even as visitor spending patterns moderate.
Engineers Ireland Event Highlights Sustainable Aviation Priorities
A recent Engineers Ireland session on “Sustainable Aviation – Policy, Strategy and Priorities” underscored the sector’s vital role in Ireland’s economy, with the country managing over 60% of the world’s leased commercial aircraft. Professor Marina Efthymiou outlined the challenges of achieving net-zero emissions, including the need for sustainable aviation fuels, advanced aircraft design, next-generation engine technologies, and resilient supply chains. The event stressed that international, EU, and national sectoral targets are shaping the transition, with Ireland positioned to play a pivotal role in driving sustainable change.
Titan Aviation Leasing Acquires Two A330-300P2F Freighters for Lease to mas
Dublin-based Titan Aviation Leasing, a joint venture between Titan Aviation Holdings and Bain Capital, has acquired two Airbus A330-300P2F freighters (MSNs 1789 and 1712) from Airbus Financial Services. Powered by Rolls-Royce engines, both aircraft have been placed on long-term lease with Mexico-based cargo carrier mas. Titan will manage the assets, reinforcing Ireland’s central role in global aircraft leasing while supporting mas’s fleet growth and cargo operations.
Unifi UK & Ireland CEO Outlines Ground Handling Growth Strategy
Unifi UK & Ireland’s CEO has shared insights into the company’s expansion ambitions following its first business aviation ground handling contract at London Oxford Airport earlier this year. Reflecting on the acquisition of Up & Away, which grew to 13 UK airports before joining Unifi, he emphasised a “people first” culture, supported by technology and flexible working conditions for frontline staff. Looking ahead, Unifi aims to build on this momentum, with plans to expand service lines and become a full-service ground handler in the UK and Europe within the next few months.
Tweet Picks
@AviationWeek The @USDOT has ordered @Delta and @Aeromexico to terminate their joint venture.
@AviationWeek USM usage is growing in Asia-Pacific among end users, but the region faces challenges related to high costs, regulatory requirements and supply chain issues.
@DXBMediaOffice The Dubai Airshow is set to kick off at Dubai World Central from 17 to 21 November 2025, bringing together more than 1,500 leading exhibitors and 148K industry professionals and innovators from 150 countries to explore the future of aviation and space.
@flybladenow Blade named Official Air Mobility Partner of 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, Blade’s air mobility activation will be one of the largest multi-day civilian helicopter movements in U.S. history.$Joby.
Video Picks
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary Holds Dublin Press Conference
In this wide-ranging Dublin press conference, Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary addresses key issues shaping the airline’s future, including fleet expansion, airport capacity caps, environmental taxes, and market share growth across Europe. Known for his forthright style, O’Leary comments on regulatory challenges, ongoing disputes with airports, and Ryanair’s strategic investments in Ireland and beyond. The session provides candid insight into the carrier’s operational priorities and competitive stance heading into 2026.
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby on Travel Demand, Newark Operations, and FAA Staffing
In this interview, United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby shares his views on the state of global travel demand, United’s performance at its key Newark hub, and the challenges posed by FAA staffing shortages. Kirby discusses the airline’s aggressive growth plans, operational improvements, and the wider implications of regulatory and infrastructure constraints. The conversation provides a clear snapshot of how United is navigating both robust demand and systemic pressures within the U.S. aviation market.
U.S. Travel CEO Geoff Freeman on American Travel Trade Deficit
Appearing on CNBC’s Squawk Box, U.S. Travel Association CEO Geoff Freeman addresses the growing U.S. travel trade deficit and its impact on the economy. Freeman highlights declining inbound travel compared to pre-pandemic levels, the competitive disadvantage posed by visa delays, and the urgent need for investment in travel facilitation. He calls for policy changes to restore America’s position as a leading global destination, emphasising the broader economic benefits of international tourism recovery.
Acumen’s Take
This edition of the Daily Aviation Brief demonstrates how aviation continues to balance expansion with structural pressures. From airlines renewing fleets and expanding networks, to airports investing in capacity and infrastructure, the global industry is positioning itself for long-term resilience. At the same time, regulatory debates, taxation challenges, and sustainability imperatives underscore the complexity of today’s operating environment. For lessors, airlines, and investors alike, the message is clear: success depends on aligning growth strategies with efficiency, adaptability, and forward-looking investment.
