16 Feb 2025
#3 Feb 2025: North American Aviation Newsletter
Avelo Enters Year 3 at Philadelphia’s Wilmington Airport
Avelo Airlines is celebrating two years of operations at Philadelphia’s Wilmington Airport (ILG), marking its transition from a startup airline to a key low-cost player in the Delaware Valley region. Since its inaugural flight to Orlando in 2023, Avelo has expanded its network to 14 nonstop destinations across five states and Puerto Rico, focusing on affordable fares and operational reliability.
CEO Andrew Levy credited Avelo’s success to its customer-centric approach, transforming ILG from a non-commercial airfield into a thriving passenger hub. The airline's flexibility in route planning was showcased by its pop-up flights to New Orleans (MSY) for Philadelphia Eagles fans, as well as the return of popular destinations like Nashville and Myrtle Beach.
Aviation Capital Group (ACG) Delivers Boeing 737-8 MAX to Air India Express
Aviation Capital Group (ACG) has delivered a Boeing 737-8 MAX to Air India Express, marking the second aircraft in a multi-aircraft sale-leaseback agreement. This deal strengthens Air India Express’s fleet modernization efforts, supporting the airline’s expansion across domestic and regional international markets.
With the 737-8 MAX’s fuel efficiency and enhanced passenger experience, this delivery aligns with Air India Express’s strategy to operate a modern, cost-effective fleet as it scales operations post-Air India Group privatization.
Delta Airlines Announces Board Appointment
Delta Air Lines has announced the appointment of Judith McKenna to its Board of Directors, effective February 7, 2025. McKenna brings over 27 years of experience at Walmart, where she served as President & CEO of Walmart International and held multiple senior leadership positions in U.S. and global markets.
Delta’s Non-Executive Chair of the Board emphasized McKenna’s strategic leadership and deep understanding of customer and employee engagement, which will provide valuable insights as Delta continues its global expansion and operational enhancements.
Acumen’s Take
On Avelo Enters Year 3 at Philadelphia’s Wilmington Airport
Avelo’s rapid expansion at ILG highlights the potential of secondary airports in providing cost-effective and convenient alternatives for travelers. The airline’s ability to dynamically adjust its route network based on market demand and special events is a competitive advantage in the low-cost sector. If sustained, Avelo could further solidify its position as a key ULCC (ultra-low-cost carrier) in underserved markets.
On Aviation Capital Group (ACG) Delivers Boeing 737-8 MAX to Air India Express
ACG’s ongoing partnership with Air India Express reflects the growing demand for sale-leaseback transactions, providing airlines with financial flexibility while expanding their fleets. The addition of fuel-efficient 737-8 MAX aircraft aligns with Air India Express’s cost-saving and network expansion strategies, particularly as it looks to compete in the fast-growing South Asian market.
On Delta Airlines Announces Board Appointment
Judith McKenna’s appointment to Delta’s Board of Directors highlights the airline’s focus on corporate strategy, global operations, and customer experience innovation. Her deep retail and international business expertise will be instrumental in shaping Delta’s long-term expansion plans, particularly in optimizing customer engagement and operational efficiencies in an evolving airline landscape.
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