20 Mar 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 20th 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
Aer Lingus Takes Delivery of Airbus A320-251N
Aer Lingus has taken delivery of an Airbus A320-251N (EI-NSG, c/n 12462), operating a Dublin-Toulouse delivery flight on 07/03/25. The aircraft is expected to support Aer Lingus’ European network, enhancing operational efficiency.
Acumen’s Take:
The A320neo remains a key part of Aer Lingus’ fleet renewal strategy, offering fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and enhanced passenger comfort. This aligns with the airline’s sustainability goals and competitive positioning in the European market.
AerCap Registers Airbus A320-214 at St Athan
An Airbus A320-214 (OE-IEL, c/n 4347), formerly operating as ES-NAB, has been registered under AerCap at St Athan on 05/03/25. This reflects continued fleet transitions within the lessor's portfolio.
Acumen’s Take:
As one of the largest aircraft leasing firms, AerCap’s active management of assets highlights ongoing demand for narrowbody aircraft in the leasing market. The A320ceo family remains a viable choice for airlines seeking reliability and availability.
JetTime Adds Boeing 737-8Q8 to Fleet
JetTime has received a Boeing 737-8Q8 (OY-JYF, c/n 37161), formerly EI-GRJ, delivered to Copenhagen on 05/03/25. The aircraft will support JetTime’s ACMI and charter operations.
Acumen’s Take:
JetTime’s investment in the 737NG series underscores its commitment to cost-effective charter and ACMI operations. The aircraft’s range and fuel efficiency make it an ideal choice for short-haul European routes.
Global Aviation News
Mammoth Installs Large Cargo Door on 777-300ERMF
Mammoth Freighters has successfully installed a large cargo door on a 777-300ERMF, marking a significant step in its freighter conversion program. The 777-300ER P2F (Passenger-to-Freighter) variant is expected to play a key role in the growing air cargo market.
Acumen’s Take:
With demand for long-haul freighters rising, the 777-300ERMF is positioned as a cost-effective, high-capacity option. Conversions like these offer a second life for widebody aircraft, aligning with evolving cargo trends and fleet strategies.
UK Airports See Record February Passenger Traffic
Heathrow, Manchester, and Stansted Airports reported record-breaking passenger traffic for February 2025, demonstrating strong post-pandemic recovery. Increased leisure and business travel have driven the surge.
Acumen’s Take:
The UK’s aviation recovery is gaining momentum, with increased traffic reflecting strong consumer confidence and improved airline capacity. Continued growth in passenger volumes will push airports to enhance infrastructure and operational efficiency.
Royal Air Maroc to Expand Fleet with 20 New Aircraft
Royal Air Maroc has announced plans to acquire 20 aircraft by the end of 2026, aimed at expanding its network across Africa, Europe, and North America. The expansion aligns with Morocco’s aviation growth strategy.
Acumen’s Take:
Royal Air Maroc’s fleet expansion is a bold step toward strengthening its competitive presence in Africa. The additional aircraft will enhance connectivity and drive passenger growth, particularly on key long-haul and regional routes.
Scoot to Add 12 Aircraft to Support Expansion
Singapore’s Scoot has announced it will add 12 new aircraft to its fleet as part of its strategy to expand services across the Asia-Pacific region. The airline continues to focus on low-cost, long-haul operations.
Acumen’s Take:
The budget airline sector remains highly competitive, and Scoot’s expansion reflects strong demand for affordable air travel in Asia. This move will further solidify its market positioning as a key low-cost carrier in the region.
Sky Vision Takes Delivery of First Haite A321P2F Conversion
Sky Vision has received its first A321P2F (Passenger-to-Freighter) conversion from Haite, reinforcing the growing demand for narrowbody freighters in the e-commerce-driven cargo market.
Acumen’s Take:
With e-commerce continuing to drive air cargo growth, A321P2F conversions provide airlines with a fuel-efficient, high-utility freighter option. The increased interest in narrowbody freighters reflects a shift in how cargo carriers optimize operations for shorter-haul freight routes.
Irish Aviation News
Joe Gill Examines Boeing’s Unique Ties to Ireland (Paywall)
Aviation analyst Joe Gill explores the historical and strategic relationship between Boeing and Ireland, highlighting the country’s role in aircraft leasing and aviation finance.
Acumen’s Take:
With Ireland being a global hub for aircraft leasing, Boeing’s long-standing partnership with Irish lessors remains crucial for fleet financing and aircraft placements. The country's tax policies and expertise continue to attract major OEM collaborations.
NAC Sells One Embraer E175 to Executive Jet Support
Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC) has finalized the sale of an Embraer E175 to Executive Jet Support (EJS), indicating ongoing demand in the regional aircraft aftermarket.
Acumen’s Take:
The regional jet market remains resilient, with secondary market sales reflecting continued demand for smaller aircraft as airlines seek efficient solutions for short-haul operations. NAC’s ability to remarket assets swiftly underscores its market agility.
Northern Ireland’s Airports Report 2024 Traffic Growth
The latest Q4 and full-year 2024 statistics for Northern Ireland’s airports highlight a steady recovery in passenger and cargo volumes, supporting route expansion and economic growth.
Acumen’s Take:
Post-pandemic recovery in regional airports continues, with passenger confidence rebounding. Strategic route expansion and improved connectivity will be critical to sustaining growth in Northern Ireland’s aviation sector.
Gatwick’s Northern Runway Nears Approval Amid Ryanair’s Tax Demand
The northern runway expansion at Gatwick has moved closer to regulatory approval, while Ryanair is calling for tax cuts before committing to future operations at the airport.
Acumen’s Take:
Expanding Gatwick’s capacity would be a major boost for London’s aviation sector, but UK taxation policies remain a barrier to airline growth. Ryanair’s stance highlights airlines’ sensitivity to operating costs in competitive markets.
Dublin Airport’s Passenger Cap Criticized by Airports Council
The Airports Council International (ACI) has warned that Dublin Airport’s passenger cap is restricting aviation growth and could weaken Ireland’s position as a key international hub.
Acumen’s Take:
Capacity limits at major hubs like Dublin can hinder airline expansion and investment. As passenger numbers recover, lifting restrictions could unlock further economic and aviation sector growth.
Ryanair Considers Opening a Sarajevo Base in 2026
Ryanair is exploring the possibility of establishing a new base in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, as part of its broader European expansion strategy.
Acumen’s Take:
With low-cost carrier (LCC) demand rising in emerging markets, Ryanair’s potential Sarajevo base would enhance regional connectivity and support tourism and economic growth in the Balkans.
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.
