19 Jan 2025
#3 Jan 2025: North American Aviation Newsletter
Air Wisconsin Announces Strategic Shift
Air Wisconsin has announced a strategic realignment focusing on the Essential Air Service Program (EAS) to enhance air connectivity for rural and underserved communities. Using its fleet of 60 CRJ-200 aircraft, the airline plans to expand charter operations while transitioning its partnership with American Airlines into a codeshare and interline relationship. The Capacity Purchase Agreement (CPA) with American Airlines will conclude in April 2025, marking a pivotal moment for the carrier.
Robert Binns, Air Wisconsin’s President & CEO, highlighted the importance of adaptability and customer-centric services, stating, “This strategic shift underscores our adaptability and commitment to delivering reliable, customised air travel solutions where they are most needed.
ALM Acquires One Airbus A220-300 from Air Lease Corporation (ALC)
Aircraft Leasing & Management (ALM) has added an Airbus A220-300 aircraft (MSN 55176) to its portfolio, acquired from Air Lease Corporation. The aircraft, registered as EI-HHJ, is currently leased to ITA Airways and marks the first A220 in ALM’s growing fleet. This acquisition reflects ALM’s commitment to expanding its portfolio with advanced, fuel-efficient aircraft that meet evolving industry demands.
This milestone highlights ALM’s strategic foresight and aligns with market trends prioritising sustainability and modernity in aircraft leasing.
Avelo Enters 2025 as America's Most Reliable Airline
Avelo Airlines has been recognised as America's most reliable airline in 2024, ranking first in on-time performance and achieving the lowest flight cancellation rate in the U.S. airline industry. These accomplishments, verified by aviation data provider Anuvu, solidify Avelo's reputation for operational excellence.
Andrew Levy, Founder and CEO of Avelo Airlines, stated, “Avelo is entering 2025 with a strong tailwind of world-class customer satisfaction, industry-leading reliability, and network growth. Our customers have more destinations to choose from, including our first three international locations. 2025 promises to be even better as we continue fulfilling our purpose to Inspire Travel with more aeroplanes and more exciting destinations.
Mesa Air Group Announces Increased Utilization
Mesa Air Group has revealed plans to significantly increase its daily aircraft utilisation rates in collaboration with United Airlines' Network Planning group. The carrier aims to increase utilisation from an average of 8.9 block hours per day in Q4 2024 to 9.5 block hours in Q1 2025, a 7% increase, with a target of 9.8 block hours per day by March 2025. This 10% improvement is expected to drive additional revenue and operational efficiency.
Chairman and CEO Jonathan Ornstein emphasised the financial and operational impact, stating, “The additional revenue generated from increased utilisation will be instrumental in improving operating results and cash flow. As a result, Mesa intends to begin recalling previously furloughed pilots starting in January.”
Acumen’s Take
On Air Wisconsin’s Strategic Shift
Acumen views Air Wisconsin’s decision to focus on the Essential Air Service (EAS) program as a bold and necessary move to adapt to evolving market demands. This shift reflects the airline’s commitment to prioritising underserved communities while diversifying revenue streams through charter operations. Such a strategy highlights the growing importance of niche markets in the global aviation ecosystem.
On ALM’s Airbus A220-300 Acquisition
The addition of the A220-300 aircraft to ALM’s portfolio demonstrates the growing market preference for next-generation, fuel-efficient aircraft. Acumen recognises this acquisition as a testament to ALM’s ability to align with sustainability trends while catering to lessee demands. This move reinforces ALM’s positioning as a forward-thinking player in the aircraft leasing sector.
On Avelo’s Reliability Recognition
Avelo’s achievement as America’s most reliable airline underscores the importance of operational excellence in building customer loyalty and market differentiation. Acumen applauds Avelo’s emphasis on reliability and customer satisfaction, setting a benchmark for industry performance and inspiring trust among travellers.
On Mesa Air Group’s Increased Utilization
Mesa’s plan to boost aircraft utilisation reflects its proactive approach to maximising operational efficiency and financial stability. Acumen views this strategy as a smart response to industry challenges, showcasing the importance of collaboration with partners like United Airlines and a strong focus on operational optimisation to secure long-term success.
Acumen Aviation © 10 January 2025 All Rights Reserved.
