28 Feb 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 28th February 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 issue explores China’s expanding aviation footprint with a focus on new international routes, fleet acquisitions, and sustainability partnerships. Highlights include Hainan Airlines’ launch of new routes to Japan and Boeing’s collaboration with HPCL to advance sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production in India.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-3-feb-2025-china-aviation-industry-newsletter
- India Aviation Industry Newsletter: This edition covers the latest developments in India’s rapidly growing aviation sector, including new route launches, fleet expansions, and sustainability initiatives. Key highlights include IndiGo’s domestic network growth and Air India’s international partnerships aimed at enhancing global connectivity.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-4-feb-2025-india-aviation-newsletter
- Irish Aircraft Leasing Newsletter: Stay up-to-date with Ireland’s leading role in global aircraft leasing, featuring major deals and asset management transactions. This edition highlights AerCap’s commitment to fostering future talent through its Women in Aviation Scholarship and notable aircraft transactions involving major Irish leasing firms.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-4-feb-2025-irish-aircraft-leasing-newsletter
- Irish Commercial Aircraft Update: A detailed roundup of recent aircraft deliveries, repositioning, and freighter conversions involving Irish-registered aircraft. Key updates include Aer Lingus expanding its transatlantic fleet and ASL Airlines Ireland boosting its cargo operations with new freighter acquisitions.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-4-feb-2025-irish-commercial-aircraft-update
- North American Aviation Newsletter: Explore the evolving landscape of North American aviation, with a focus on fleet modernisation, cargo operations, and sustainable aviation developments. This issue features Horizon Air’s Embraer E175 acquisition and JetBlue’s 25th-anniversary strategy to strengthen its East Coast leisure network.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-4-feb-2025-north-american-aviation-newsletter
IrishAero News
Beijing Airlines Boeing BBJ Visits Dublin Airport
On 16 February 2025, a Boeing 737-79L (BBJ), registered B-3999 and operated by Beijing Airlines, arrived at Dublin Airport from Munich. The aircraft transported China's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi, as part of his European diplomatic tour, which included engagements in the UK and Germany. Beijing Airlines, a VIP charter subsidiary majority-owned by Air China, maintains a fleet comprising three Boeing 737-800s and one Boeing 737-79L (BBJ).
Acumen's Take:
The arrival of Beijing Airlines' BBJ at Dublin Airport underscores the strategic importance of Ireland in international diplomatic relations. Such high-profile visits not only enhance bilateral ties but also highlight Dublin Airport's capability to accommodate specialised aircraft and VIP delegations, reinforcing its status as a key hub in global aviation networks.
Neos Adds EI-RZF Boeing 737-8 MAX to Its Fleet
Italian airline Neos has expanded its fleet with the addition of a Boeing 737-8 MAX, registered EI-RZF (MSN 66466). The aircraft, leased from Aviation Capital Group (ACG), was delivered via a route from Boeing Field to Shannon, arriving on 14 February 2025 before proceeding to Milan Malpensa. This delivery is the first of three Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft that ACG is set to provide to Neos. Neos currently operates a diverse fleet, including Boeing 737-800s, 737-8s, and 787-9 Dreamliners, serving various domestic and international destinations.
Acumen's Take:
The integration of the Boeing 737-8 MAX into Neos's fleet reflects the airline's commitment to modernising its operations with fuel-efficient aircraft. This strategic move is poised to enhance Neos's operational efficiency and expand its route offerings, aligning with industry trends toward sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
Volotea Introduces Cork-Verona Charter Flight Series
Spanish carrier Volotea has commenced a new weekly charter service connecting Cork Airport to Verona, starting on 25 January 2025. Operated on behalf of Topflight, the service utilises an Airbus A320-200 with a capacity of 180 seats. The aircraft's schedule includes a morning rotation to the City of Derry and an afternoon return to Cork. This initiative caters to the growing demand for winter sports travel, offering passengers convenient access to renowned ski destinations via Verona.
Acumen's Take:
Volotea's introduction of the Cork-Verona charter service signifies a strategic response to the increasing interest in winter sports tourism. By facilitating direct access to prominent ski regions, this route enhances travel convenience for passengers and underscores Cork Airport's role in supporting niche travel markets.
Aircraft Update
VP-CFI Airbus A320-271N | Aviation Capital Group
The Airbus A320-271N, with construction number 7859, was ferried to Lourdes (LDE) on 14th February 2025 under Aviation Capital Group’s (ACG) management. The aircraft was previously operated under the registration VT-WGM, suggesting it came from an Indian airline before being repositioned.
Acumen’s Take:
The ferrying of this aircraft to Lourdes—a known storage and maintenance location—indicates that it could be awaiting lease transition, undergoing maintenance, or being remarketed for a new operator. Given the strong demand for fuel-efficient narrowbodies like the A320neo, ACG may be preparing the aircraft for redeployment or lease renewal.
For lessors and asset managers, this highlights continued movement in the secondary leasing market, particularly for next-generation aircraft. Acumen can assist in lease structuring, remarketing strategies, and asset value assessments to ensure optimal aircraft placement in high-demand regions.
VP-CRW Boeing 737-8EH | Aergo Capital
The Boeing 737-8EH, with construction number 39619, was positioned at Tucson (TUS) on 12th February 2025 under Aergo Capital’s ownership. The aircraft’s movement to Tucson suggests it could be entering storage, undergoing maintenance, or being prepared for a lease transfer.
Acumen’s Take:
Tucson is a well-known hub for aircraft storage and maintenance, often used by lessors to hold aircraft between leases or conduct necessary refurbishments. This suggests that Aergo Capital is either reassigning the asset for future deployment or considering a long-term storage solution.
With the Boeing 737 MAX demand steadily increasing, this aircraft may soon be placed with a new operator. Acumen can support investors and lessors in evaluating remarketing options, optimising lease transition timelines, and forecasting demand for the 737 MAX family in key regions.
Global Aviation News
Airbus Reports 766 Aircraft Deliveries in 2024, Backlog Reaches 8,658
In 2024, Airbus delivered 766 commercial aircraft to 86 customers worldwide, slightly below its revised target of 770 due to supply chain challenges. The company also secured 878 gross new orders, bringing its year-end backlog to 8,658 aircraft. Despite these hurdles, Airbus plans to increase deliveries to 820 aircraft in 2025 and ramp up production rates for the A320, A220, and A350 models in the coming years.
Acumen’s Take
Airbus's substantial backlog and planned production increases indicate a robust demand for its aircraft, reflecting a recovering aviation market. However, ongoing supply chain issues, particularly with engine suppliers, may pose challenges to these ambitious targets. For lessors and investors, this scenario suggests potential opportunities in the sale and leaseback market, as airlines may seek flexible financing solutions to manage delivery delays. Acumen can provide insights into market trends, asset valuations, and strategic advice to navigate these developments effectively.
Azul Launches A321P2F Operations
Update: Azul Cargo Express is set to become the second carrier in Latin America to operate the Airbus A321 Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) aircraft. The airline plans to commence operations with two A321P2Fs, leased from AerCap, on February 15, 2025. These aircraft will replace Azul's existing Boeing 737-400Fs, aligning with the carrier's strategy to modernise its fleet and enhance cargo capacity.
Acumen’s Take
Azul's introduction of the A321P2F signifies a strategic shift towards more fuel-efficient and higher-capacity narrowbody freighters. This move reflects a broader industry trend of utilising converted narrowbody aircraft to meet the growing demand in regional cargo markets. For stakeholders, this highlights opportunities in the freighter conversion market and the potential for increased asset utilisation. Acumen can assist in evaluating conversion programs, assessing market demand, and optimising fleet strategies to capitalise on this trend.
British Airways Adjusts Schedules Due to Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 Engine Issues
Update: British Airways (BA) continues to adjust its long-haul schedules in response to ongoing issues with Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines powering its Boeing 787 fleet. These challenges have led to the grounding of several aircraft, necessitating route cancellations and frequency reductions, including the suspension of flights to Abu Dhabi.
Acumen’s Take
The persistent technical issues with the Trent 1000 engines underscore the importance of diversified engine procurement and robust maintenance strategies for airlines. For lessors and investors, this situation may influence lease negotiations, residual value assessments, and maintenance reserve planning. Acumen offers expertise in technical asset management, risk assessment, and strategic planning to navigate the complexities arising from such operational disruptions.
Boeing Closes UK 737-800BCF Conversion Line
Update: Boeing has ceased 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) conversion operations at its London Gatwick facility following an agreement to sell the site and its MRO business to British Airways. The final 737-800BCF completed at this facility has departed, marking the end of its conversion activities there.
Acumen’s Take
The closure of Boeing's Gatwick conversion line indicates a strategic consolidation of its freighter conversion operations. This move may affect the availability and turnaround times for 737-800BCF conversions, potentially impacting operators and lessors planning fleet expansions in the narrowbody freighter segment. Acumen can provide guidance on alternative conversion facilities, assess the impact on delivery schedules, and offer strategic advice on fleet planning in light of these changes.
flynas to Receive Over 100 Aircraft by 2030
Saudi Arabian low-cost carrier flynas has announced plans to expand its fleet to over 160 aircraft by 2030, with more than 100 Airbus aircraft scheduled for delivery over the next five years. This expansion aligns with Saudi Arabia's National Civil Aviation Strategy, aiming to connect the Kingdom to 250 international destinations and accommodate 330 million passengers annually by 2030.
Acumen’s Take
flynas's aggressive fleet expansion reflects the airline's confidence in the growth potential of the Middle Eastern aviation market. This substantial order will significantly increase Airbus's presence in the region and may influence market dynamics, including competition and fare structures. For lessors and investors, this development presents opportunities for financing, leasing, and partnership arrangements. Acumen can assist in market analysis, fleet planning, and strategic investment decisions to capitalise on the burgeoning opportunities in the Middle Eastern aviation sector.
Irish Aviation News
Dublin Airport Launches Competition to Promote Revamped Liffey Lounge
Update: Dublin Airport has initiated a competition to enhance the visibility of its newly refurbished Liffey Lounge. The lounge, designed to offer premium services to travellers, has undergone significant upgrades to improve the passenger experience. The competition seeks to engage travellers and raise awareness about the enhanced amenities available at the lounge.
Acumen’s Take
The refurbishment and promotional efforts for the Liffey Lounge reflect Dublin Airport's commitment to elevating passenger services, aligning with global trends where airports enhance non-aeronautical revenue through premium offerings. For stakeholders, this move indicates potential growth in ancillary revenue streams. Acumen can assist in evaluating the financial viability of such enhancements and provide insights into passenger engagement strategies that maximise return on investment.
Fáilte Ireland Chief Highlights Tourism Shift: 'An East-West Story'
Update: Paul Kelly, the CEO of Fáilte Ireland, has observed a notable shift in tourism dynamics, describing it as 'an east-west story.' The U.S. market is exhibiting robust growth, significantly contributing to Ireland's tourism sector, while European markets are lagging. This trend underscores the increasing importance of transatlantic visitors to Ireland's economy.
Acumen’s Take
Reliance on the U.S. market for tourism growth suggests that airlines and tour operators may need to adjust their strategies, potentially increasing capacity and marketing efforts toward North American travellers. For aviation stakeholders, this could mean exploring new routes or enhancing existing services between Ireland and the U.S. Acumen can provide market analysis and strategic planning to capitalise on this transatlantic demand, ensuring optimised fleet utilisation and route profitability.
Irish Aircraft Register Update for January 2025
Update: The Irish Aviation Authority has released its aircraft register update for January 2025. Notable changes include the addition of several aircraft, such as a Cessna 172S registered to Waterford Aero Club and a Boeing 737-8200 for Ryanair DAC. Cancellations include the Airbus A320-214, previously operated by Aer Lingus, which has been parted out at St. Athan.
Acumen’s Take
The updates to the Irish Aircraft Register reflect active fleet management by Irish operators, including fleet expansion and phase-outs. For lessors and investors, understanding these changes is crucial for asset valuation and market positioning. Acumen offers expertise in aircraft transitions, providing services such as asset evaluation, technical inspections, and guidance on regulatory compliance to facilitate smooth fleet adjustments.
Ireland West Airport Anticipates Passenger Growth in 2025
Update: Ireland West Airport projects continued passenger growth in 2025, building on a record-breaking 834,000 passengers in 2024. The introduction of a new inbound service from Groningen, Netherlands, is expected to contribute to this upward trend, enhancing connectivity and offering more travel options for passengers.
Acumen’s Take
The positive passenger forecasts for Ireland West Airport indicate a strengthening regional travel market. For airlines and tour operators, this presents opportunities to introduce new routes or increase frequencies, tapping into the growing demand. Acumen can assist in route development analysis, demand forecasting, and strategic planning to help stakeholders make informed decisions about market entry and capacity management.
Shannon Airport Advocates for Revised Aviation Policy Favoring Smaller Airports
Update: Shannon Airport has called for a reassessment of Ireland's aviation policy, highlighting that current regulations "bizarrely penalise" smaller airports experiencing passenger growth. The airport, in collaboration with a major Irish airline, urges the government to increase the passenger cap in the Regional Airports Programme from one million to three million. This change would allow growing airports like Shannon to continue receiving state funding, which is essential for sustaining and expanding operations.
Acumen’s Take
Advocating for policy adjustments reflects Shannon Airport's proactive approach to securing necessary support for its growth trajectory. For policymakers and industry stakeholders, this highlights the need to balance support between major hubs and regional airports to ensure a cohesive national aviation strategy. Acumen can provide policy analysis, economic impact assessments, and strategic advisory services to inform decision-making processes that foster equitable growth across Ireland's aviation sector.
Tweet Picks
X Post Picks:
@airwaysmagazine ITA Airways officially exited the SkyTeam Alliance on February 3, 2025, with a transition period ending on April 30, 2025. SkyTeam and the airline are ensuring a seamless transition while ITA Airways is set to join Star Alliance later this year. #Airways #News.
@bscholl Our market research says 97% of passengers want supersonic flights. (3% clicked the wrong button.) More remarkable, 87% say they would walk away from their status and switch airlines to get supersonic. Supersonic is a loyalty program buster.
@MAS The all-new Malaysia Airlines A330neo is now flying daily to Melbourne, with 4x weekly flights to Auckland and 3x weekly flights to Bali—bringing you closer to your favorite destinations with enhanced connectivity.
@SeanM1997 IndiGo Airlines are deepening ties with Air France-KLM and Virgin Atlantic - which will help assist in accessing slots, offering codeshares and connections, and growing cargo opportunities. Flights from India to Virgin Atlantic's hubs.
Video Picks
Airbus Highlights 2024: Commercial Aircraft
In 2024, Airbus delivered 766 commercial aircraft to 86 customers worldwide, slightly below its revised target of 770 due to supply chain challenges. The company also secured 878 gross new orders, bringing its year-end backlog to 8,658 aircraft. Despite these hurdles, Airbus plans to increase deliveries to 820 aircraft in 2025 and ramp up production rates for the A320, A220, and A350 models in the coming years.
Acumen’s Take
Airbus's substantial backlog and planned production increases indicate a robust demand for its aircraft, reflecting a recovering aviation market. However, ongoing supply chain issues, particularly with engine suppliers, may pose challenges to these ambitious targets. For lessors and investors, this scenario suggests potential opportunities in the sale and leaseback market, as airlines may seek flexible financing solutions to manage delivery delays. Acumen can provide insights into market trends, asset valuations, and strategic advice to navigate these developments effectively.
'I'm Not Happy With Boeing': Trump Criticizes Delays in Air Force One Program
President Donald Trump has expressed dissatisfaction with Boeing over significant delays and cost overruns in the Air Force One replacement program. Originally contracted in 2018 for $3.9 billion, the project has experienced delays, with the delivery of two specialised 747-8i aircraft now expected between 2027 and 2028. In response, Trump has enlisted Elon Musk to explore alternative solutions, including the possibility of acquiring and retrofitting aircraft from other sources to expedite the process.
EXPRESS NEWS
Acumen’s Take
The delays and cost overruns in the Air Force One program highlight the complexities inherent in large-scale, customised aircraft projects. For stakeholders, this situation underscores the importance of robust project management and diversified supply chains to mitigate risks associated with bespoke aircraft manufacturing. Acumen can assist in evaluating project timelines, assessing supplier reliability, and implementing risk management strategies to ensure adherence to delivery schedules and budget constraints.
Addressing the Aircraft Mechanic Shortage in the U.S.
Update: The aviation industry is facing a significant shortage of aircraft mechanics, with projections indicating a need to fill 12,000 positions annually to meet demand. This shortfall is attributed to an ageing workforce approaching retirement and a decline in new entrants into the field. The shortage poses potential risks to operational efficiency and safety standards and could lead to increased flight delays and cancellations.
Acumen’s Take
The mechanic shortage presents a critical challenge to the aviation industry's growth and safety. Airlines and maintenance organisations must invest in workforce development through training programs, partnerships with educational institutions, and competitive compensation packages to attract and retain talent. Acumen can provide guidance on developing strategic workforce plans, implementing apprenticeship programs, and forecasting maintenance needs to ensure operational resilience amidst labour shortages.
