19 Mar 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 19th March 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:
- China Aviation Industry Newsletter: This newsletter highlights China's plans to amend its Civil Aviation Law to promote high-quality development, including boosting general aviation and the low-altitude economy. It also covers Emirates' launch of daily non-stop flights between Dubai and Shenzhen, marking Shenzhen as its fourth destination in mainland China, and SF Airlines' new cargo route between Ezhou Huahu International Airport and Bengaluru, enhancing trade links between China and India.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-3-March-2025-china-aviation-industry-newsletter
- India Aviation Industry Newsletter: This edition discusses Air India's relocation to Tokyo Haneda Airport and its expanded codeshare agreement with All Nippon Airways, enhancing connectivity between India and Japan. It also covers Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru's introduction of an Aerial View Display system to improve operational efficiency and IndiGo's launch of daily direct flights between Tiruchirappalli and Jaffna, strengthening air connectivity between India and Sri Lanka.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-3-March-2025-india-aviation-newsletter
- Irish Aircraft Leasing Newsletter: This newsletter provides insights into Ireland's aircraft leasing industry, highlighting AerCap's strong financial performance in 2024, AFG Aviation Ireland Limited's appointment of Imtiaz Khot as Senior Vice President – Commercial, and CDB Aviation's delivery of an Airbus A320neo to Colorful Guizhou Airlines, supporting the airline's fleet growth strategy.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-3-march-2025-irish-aircraft-leasing-newsletter
- Irish Commercial Aircraft Update: This update details key movements in the Irish commercial aviation sector, including notable aircraft deliveries, leasing transactions, and fleet expansions. Highlights include Aurigny Air Services receiving an ATR72-212A(600) to support regional operations and Air Serbia enhancing its long-haul capabilities with a new Airbus A330-243.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-3-March-2025-irish-commercial-aircraft-update
- North American Aviation Newsletter: This newsletter covers significant developments in North American aviation, such as Air Lease Corporation's lease agreements with Qanot Sharq Airlines for five Airbus A321neo aircraft, Aviation Capital Group's delivery of an Airbus A350-900 to Air France under a sustainability-linked lease, and Delta Air Lines' partnership with JetZero to develop a blended-wing-body aircraft aimed at improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-3-March-2025-north-american-aviation-newsletter
IrishAero News
Buzz Transfers Two Boeing 737NGs to Malta Air
Buzz, a subsidiary of Ryanair Holdings, has transferred two Boeing 737NG aircraft to Malta Air. This strategic realignment supports Ryanair’s operational strategy of optimising fleet allocation across its subsidiaries, allowing for improved aircraft utilisation within its European network.
Acumen’s Take:
This transfer is a strategic move aimed at balancing Ryanair Holdings' capacity across its various brands. By reallocating aircraft based on seasonal and regional demand, Ryanair enhances its cost efficiency while maintaining a flexible operational structure. Acumen expects further fleet redistributions as carriers optimise networks to address evolving market conditions and fuel efficiency considerations.
EI-KIE Airbus A320neo Delivered to Air Astana
Air Astana has received its latest Airbus A320neo, EI-KIE, as part of its ongoing fleet modernisation efforts. The new aircraft, known for its improved fuel efficiency and lower operating costs, will help the airline strengthen its regional and international operations.
Acumen’s Take:
The delivery of another A320neo highlights the continued demand for next-generation fuel-efficient aircraft in emerging markets. With Air Astana expanding its network, the A320neo’s operational efficiency will be key in maintaining profitability while reducing emissions. Acumen sees this as part of a broader trend where airlines prioritise sustainability while maintaining competitive operating costs.
PC-12NGX Joins Stellaer 212’s Fleet
Stellaer 212 has expanded its fleet with the addition of a Pilatus PC-12NGX, a versatile turboprop aircraft known for its efficiency in regional and business aviation. This acquisition enhances the company’s ability to offer high-performance, short-field operation capabilities.
Acumen’s Take:
The addition of the PC-12NGX demonstrates the growing demand for flexible and cost-efficient aircraft in regional and corporate aviation. As airlines and operators seek to optimize operations in underserved markets, the ability of the PC-12NGX to access smaller airfields makes it a valuable asset. Acumen anticipates increased adoption of similar aircraft as demand for personalized, short-haul air travel rises.
Aircraft Update
EI-NSG Airbus A320-251N Delivered to Aer Lingus
EI-NSG, an Airbus A320-251N (c/n 12462), has been delivered to Aer Lingus on 07/03/25, operating a Dublin-Toulouse delivery flight. The aircraft joins Aer Lingus’ growing narrowbody fleet, supporting its European network expansion.
Acumen’s Take:
Aer Lingus continues strengthening its fleet with next-generation aircraft. The A320neo's efficiency and reduced emissions align with the airline’s sustainability goals, reinforcing its competitive edge in the European market.
OE-IEL Airbus A320-214 Registered to AerCap
An Airbus A320-214 (c/n 4347), previously operated as ES-NAB, has been registered to AerCap at St Athan on 05/03/25. The aircraft's transition indicates ongoing lease activity within the narrowbody market.
Acumen’s Take:
As the world’s largest lessor, AerCap remains active in managing fleet transitions, reflecting sustained demand for A320-family aircraft. This registration aligns with the continued preference for efficient, high-utility aircraft in leasing portfolios.
OY-JYF Boeing 737-8Q8 Delivered to JetTime
OY-JYF, a Boeing 737-8Q8 (c/n 37161), was delivered to JetTime in Copenhagen on 05/03/25, previously registered as EI-GRJ. The aircraft will likely support JetTime’s ACMI and charter operations.
Acumen’s Take:
JetTime’s continued investment in the 737NG fleet reflects the ongoing relevance of these aircraft in short-haul charter and wet-lease markets, where flexibility and availability remain key factors.
Global Aviation News
Mammoth Installs Large Cargo Door on 777-300ERMF
Freighter conversion specialist Mammoth Freighters has installed a large cargo door on its 777-300ERMF, a crucial step in its freighter modification program. This advancement supports the increasing demand for widebody cargo aircraft.
Acumen’s Take:
With e-commerce growth and global freight demand continuing to rise, conversions of widebody passenger aircraft remain a cost-effective solution. The 777-300ER P2F market is expanding, offering an attractive option for airlines and cargo operators.
UK Airports Report Record-Breaking February
Heathrow, Manchester, and Stansted Airports recorded all-time high passenger numbers for February 2025, signalling a strong recovery in travel demand. Increased leisure and business travel contributed to this milestone.
Acumen’s Take:
The aviation industry’s post-pandemic recovery is accelerating, particularly in key European hubs. The surge in traffic highlights consumer confidence and the impact of capacity restoration across airlines.
Royal Air Maroc Plans to Add 20 Aircraft by 2026
Royal Air Maroc has announced an ambitious fleet expansion plan, aiming to acquire 20 aircraft by 2026. This move will bolster the airline’s African and international routes.
Acumen’s Take:
Royal Air Maroc’s fleet expansion signals aggressive network growth, particularly within Africa. With increasing competition in the region, fleet modernisation and expansion will be critical for maintaining market dominance.
Scoot Expanding Fleet with 12 New Aircraft
Singapore’s Scoot is set to add 12 aircraft to its fleet, enhancing its regional and medium-haul operations. The airline is responding to strong travel demand in Asia-Pacific.
Acumen’s Take:
The low-cost carrier (LCC) market remains robust in Asia, with fleet expansions reflecting rising demand for budget-friendly travel. Scoot’s growth strategy aligns with increased intra-Asia connectivity.
Sky Vision Takes Delivery of First Haite A321P2F Conversion
Sky Vision has received its first A321P2F conversion from Haite, reinforcing the A321’s popularity in narrowbody freighter markets. The aircraft will serve e-commerce-driven cargo operations.
Acumen’s Take:
With e-commerce shipments driving cargo growth, A321P2F conversions provide a cost-effective and fuel-efficient solution for regional freight operators. The market for converted narrowbodies is expected to expand further in 2025.
Irish Aviation News
Joe Gill: The Value of Boeing’s Unique Relationship with Ireland (Paywall)
Aviation expert Joe Gill explores the long-standing relationship between Boeing and Ireland, emphasising how the country has played a crucial role in aircraft leasing and aviation finance. The piece highlights Ireland’s strategic advantage as a global hub for aircraft lessors.
Acumen’s Take:
Ireland remains a critical player in aircraft leasing, with its tax incentives and financial expertise attracting major OEM partnerships. Boeing’s ties to Irish lessors solidify Dublin’s status as a key aviation hub.
NAC Sells One Embraer E175 to Executive Jet Support
Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC) has successfully sold an Embraer E175 to Executive Jet Support (EJS), reflecting continued demand for regional jets in aftermarket support and leasing portfolios.
Acumen’s Take:
The secondary market for regional aircraft remains strong, with increasing demand for used Embraer jets among smaller carriers and aftermarket service providers. NAC’s ability to remarket assets reinforces regional aviation’s resilience.
Northern Ireland’s Airports – Q4 & 2024 Traffic Statistics
Passenger and cargo traffic statistics for Northern Ireland’s airports indicate steady growth in Q4 2024 and full-year performance. The report provides insights into route development, airline market share, and economic contributions.
Acumen’s Take:
As travel demand continues to rebound, regional airports must focus on route connectivity and infrastructure to remain competitive. Passenger trends in Northern Ireland reflect broader recovery patterns seen across European secondary airports.
Gatwick’s Northern Runway Moves Closer to Approval
Gatwick Airport’s proposed northern runway has moved a step closer to regulatory approval, which could expand airport capacity significantly. Meanwhile, Ryanair has called for a reduction in UK Air Passenger Duty (APD) before committing to growth.
Acumen’s Take:
Expanded capacity at Gatwick could unlock new long-haul and European routes, enhancing London’s aviation footprint. However, airline tax policies remain a key hurdle, with Ryanair’s stance highlighting cost-sensitive airline strategies.
Passenger Cap at Dublin Airport Continues to Hinder Growth
The Airports Council International (ACI) has criticised Dublin Airport’s passenger cap, arguing that it limits growth potential and puts Ireland at a disadvantage compared to competing European hubs.
Acumen’s Take:
Dublin’s role as an aviation finance and leasing hub needs a strong airport infrastructure to support growth. Regulatory restrictions on passenger numbers could discourage investment and airline expansion in the long run.
Ryanair Considering Sarajevo Base Opening in 2026
Ryanair is exploring a potential base in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, by 2026, expanding its footprint in the Balkan region. The move would enhance connectivity in the low-cost travel market.
Acumen’s Take:
Ryanair’s expansion strategy aligns with the growing demand for intra-European low-cost travel. A Sarajevo base would provide key links between Western and Eastern Europe, strengthening regional tourism and business travel.
Tweet Picks
@aeroroutes Canadian Transportation Agency has denied Turkish Airlines' application to operate additional 5 weekly flights to Canada in Northern summer 2025 season, which would be extra 1 weekly flight to Toronto and 2 each for Montreal and Vancouver.
@aeroroutes Emirates SkyCargo has filed the code "77LK" for its 777-200LR fleet from November 2025. Not detecting any difference to existing "77LJ" code when it comes to seating configurations.
@aeroroutes From Toronto and Montreal, Air Canada between 01JUL25 and 31AUG25 reduces capacity on Florida routes. Selected flights scheduled with 196-seater rouge A321 has switched to 136-seater rouge A319 or mainline 146-seater A320.
@Airbus Another 8 #A321neo for @aegeanairlines Supporting the airline's fleet growth and network expansion plans, the A321neo will deliver more than 20% fuel and CO2 emission reductions while maximising passenger comfort in its #AirspaceCabin.
Video Picks
Conor McCarthy – Executive Chairman, Emerald Airlines & Dublin Aerospace
Conor McCarthy, Executive Chairman of Emerald Airlines and Dublin Aerospace, discusses the challenges and opportunities in regional aviation and MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) services. He highlights Emerald’s expansion plans, the impact of aircraft leasing trends, and the post-pandemic recovery of regional carriers.
Acumen’s Take:
The regional aviation sector is seeing renewed growth, with passenger demand increasing and airlines focusing on fleet efficiency. The MRO sector is also witnessing higher demand, driven by aging aircraft maintenance cycles and new fleet deliveries. Emerald’s growth strategy underscores the importance of strong regional connectivity and operational resilience.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian on Lowering Q1 Guidance
Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian discusses the revised Q1 guidance, citing a slowdown in corporate and consumer spending as key factors. While travel demand remains relatively strong, economic uncertainties and corporate belt-tightening are impacting premium and business-class bookings.
Acumen’s Take:
The airline industry is closely tied to macroeconomic conditions, and fluctuations in corporate travel budgets can significantly impact revenue streams. Delta’s cautious outlook signals potential shifts in airline revenue strategies, with premium and long-haul markets being most affected. A greater focus on leisure travel and cost optimisation may be necessary in the short term.
Delhi Airport Proposes Hike in User Development Fee
Delhi Airport has proposed an increase in User Development Fees (UDF) for both domestic and international passengers. The move is aimed at funding infrastructure upgrades and expansion projects, but it could also impact ticket prices and passenger flow.
Acumen’s Take:
Airports worldwide are balancing growth and passenger affordability. While infrastructure investments are critical for long-term capacity expansion, higher fees may deter budget-conscious travellers. Airlines operating in India’s price-sensitive market could face challenges in absorbing additional costs, potentially influencing route profitability.
