21 Feb 2025
#4 Feb 2025: North American Aviation Newsletter
JetBlue Celebrates 25 Years
JetBlue has marked its 25th anniversary, commemorating a significant milestone since its first flight on February 11, 2000. Over the years, the airline has carved a niche in the industry with its emphasis on customer-centric travel experiences and operational excellence. Under its new JetForward strategy, JetBlue plans to enhance operational performance, launch innovative products, and expand its East Coast leisure travel network. CEO Joanna Geraghty expressed gratitude towards employees and customers, emphasising the airline’s commitment to “bringing humanity back to air travel” through its dedicated service and hospitality.
Tidal Flight and Tropic Ocean Airways Partner to Introduce Polaris Aircraft
Tidal Flight has partnered with Florida-based Tropic Ocean Airways to introduce its hybrid-electric Polaris Amphibian aircraft, enhancing sustainable travel options across Florida, the Bahamas, and beyond. Announced at the Future Opportunities for Seaplanes and Amphibious Aviation 2025 (FOSAA25) conference in Miami, the deal includes a Letter of Intent (LOI) for 20 aircraft valued at over $100 million. Tropic Ocean Airways, a leading seaplane airline, aims to leverage its expertise in regional aviation to expand the operational footprint of sustainable, hybrid-electric aircraft in popular leisure destinations.
Werner Aero Acquires Airbus A319-100
Werner Aero has completed the acquisition of an Airbus A319-100 (MSN2554) from FTAI Aviation as part of its ongoing efforts to expand its inventory of aftermarket solutions. The aircraft will be dismantled at Air Salvage International at Cotswold Airport in the UK. This acquisition reflects Werner Aero’s focus on providing high-quality parts and components for airlines and MROs (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) around the globe. The move underscores the company’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for aftermarket services, especially as airlines seek cost-effective solutions to extend aircraft life cycles.
Horizon Air Secures BNDES Financing for Six Embraer E175 Aircraft
Horizon Air, a subsidiary of Alaska Air Group Inc., has secured approximately R$900 million in financing from Brazil’s National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) to purchase six Embraer E175 aircraft. The financing follows a previous agreement in 2023, which supported the export of 11 Embraer aircraft to Horizon. The new aircraft, expected to be delivered between 2025 and 2026, will expand Horizon’s regional fleet. Embraer’s CEO, Francisco Gomes Neto, highlighted the importance of BNDES’s support for Brazil’s aerospace ecosystem, which contributes to job creation and strengthens the country’s manufacturing sector.
Acumen’s Take
On JetBlue’s 25th Anniversary:
JetBlue’s 25-year milestone reflects its enduring commitment to customer-centric innovation and operational excellence. As the airline expands its East Coast leisure network under the JetForward strategy, there are opportunities for investors and lessors to engage in fleet optimisation and network expansion. Acumen’s advisory services can support stakeholders in identifying profitable markets and maximising aircraft utilisation.
On Tidal Flight and Tropic Ocean Airways’ Partnership:
The partnership to introduce hybrid-electric Polaris aircraft represents a significant shift towards sustainable aviation in the regional travel sector. With environmental sustainability becoming increasingly crucial, opportunities for investment in hybrid-electric technology are expanding. Acumen’s consultancy services offer insights into integrating hybrid-electric aircraft into existing fleets, enabling clients to stay ahead in the evolving green aviation market.
On Werner Aero’s Airbus A319-100 Acquisition:
Werner Aero’s acquisition highlights the rising demand for aftermarket services, particularly for narrow-body aircraft like the A319. This reflects a broader industry trend of extending aircraft lifespans through efficient parts recovery and recycling. Acumen’s asset management expertise supports clients in optimising end-of-life asset strategies, ensuring sustainable returns while supporting circular economy practices in aviation.
On Horizon Air’s Embraer E175 Financing:
The financing deal between Horizon Air and BNDES underscores the increasing importance of regional aircraft in expanding airline networks. With Embraer’s E175 being a popular choice for regional routes, this acquisition presents growth opportunities for lessors and financiers. Acumen’s asset management and consultancy solutions can help stakeholders evaluate the long-term value of regional fleet investments while supporting cross-border financing strategies.
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