28 Mar 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 28th 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: The newsletter highlights China Eastern’s new Shanghai-Abu Dhabi route, HK Express’ expansion into South Korea, and Vietnam’s regulatory shift to accommodate COMAC aircraft, reflecting growing regional connectivity and evolving fleet strategies.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-4-March-2025-china-aviation-industry-newsletter
- India Aviation Industry Newsletter: Air India progresses with its $400 million fleet modernisation, debuting its first retrofitted A320neo, while IndiGo strengthens its revenue management capabilities through a strategic partnership with Amadeus.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-4-March-2025-india-aviation-newsletter
- Irish Aircraft Leasing Newsletter: Key leasing developments include High Ridge Aviation acquiring a Boeing 787-9 from ORIX Aviation, Jackson Square Aviation’s direct order of 50 A320neo aircraft, and SMFL & LCI’s expansion through the acquisition of Macquarie Rotorcraft
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-4-march-2025-irish-aircraft-leasing-newsletter
- Irish Commercial Aircraft Update: The newsletter covers notable aircraft movements, including fleet deliveries, leasing transitions, and freighter developments. Highlights include PSA Airlines registering a CRJ900, Kalitta Air expanding its cargo fleet with a 777F, and ASL Airlines Belgium adding a Boeing 737 freighter, alongside aircraft repositioning and leasing transactions across major operators.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-4-March-2025-irish-commercial-aircraft-update
- North American Aviation Newsletter: Aventure Aviation secures its 25th Boeing 737NG for teardown, BeauTech and JALUX launch a $150 million engine leasing joint venture, and Spirit Airlines emerges from financial restructuring with a stronger balance sheet and long-term growth focus.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-4-March-2025-north-american-aviation-newsletter
IrishAero News
Aer Lingus Expands Fleet with New A320neo
Aer Lingus has expanded its fleet with the latest Airbus A320neo, aligning with its strategy to modernise its short-haul operations. The fuel-efficient aircraft is expected to reduce emissions while enhancing passenger experience with improved cabin features. This addition supports Aer Lingus’ sustainability goals and strengthens its European network as demand for travel continues to rise.
Acumen’s Take:
Aer Lingus’ adoption of the A320neo underscores the ongoing industry-wide shift toward more fuel-efficient aircraft. With rising fuel costs and increasing environmental regulations, airlines are prioritising fleet renewals to remain competitive. This move also positions Aer Lingus to capitalise on growing intra-European traffic while reducing operational expenses.
Eirtrade Aviation Registers Ex-Eva Air A330
Eirtrade Aviation has officially registered an ex-Eva Air Airbus A330, adding another widebody asset to its management portfolio. The aircraft is likely to undergo maintenance, storage, or potential conversion for cargo operations. As demand for used widebody aircraft remains strong, particularly in the cargo and leasing markets, this registration signals continued investment in mid-life aircraft management.
Acumen’s Take:
The addition of this A330 highlights the growing market for second-life widebody aircraft. With strong demand for freighter conversions and increased leasing opportunities, asset management firms like Eirtrade are positioning themselves to maximise returns on mid-life aircraft. The move also reflects a shift in airline fleet strategies as more carriers seek cost-effective solutions amid fluctuating market conditions.
FlyArystan Expands with 25th Irish-Registered A320
Kazakhstan’s low-cost carrier FlyArystan has reached a fleet milestone by adding its 25th Irish-registered Airbus A320. This expansion strengthens its operational network across Central Asia and beyond. The use of Irish registration highlights Ireland’s dominance in aircraft leasing, with FlyArystan benefiting from tax and regulatory advantages. The airline’s growing fleet supports its ambitious plans to meet rising regional travel demand.
Acumen’s Take:
FlyArystan’s fleet expansion signifies the continued rise of low-cost carriers (LCCs) in emerging markets. The airline’s reliance on Irish-registered aircraft demonstrates how Ireland remains a preferred jurisdiction for aviation financing and leasing. As demand for affordable air travel increases in Central Asia, FlyArystan is well-positioned to capitalise on market growth, offering greater connectivity and affordability.
Aircraft Update
HL8596 Airbus A320-216 (c/n 2612) – Aero K Airlines
This Airbus A320-216, previously registered as M-ABSZ, was delivered to Da Nang on 18/02/25 for South Korean low-cost carrier Aero K Airlines. The aircraft will support the airline’s regional network expansion.
Acumen’s Take:
With increasing travel demand in Southeast Asia, Aero K’s fleet growth aligns with the rising trend of low-cost carriers expanding into key tourism and business hubs.
VQ-CAC Airbus A320-271N (c/n 8416) – Viva Aerobus
Delivered via Shannon-Bangor-Monterrey on 19/03/25, this new A320neo strengthens Viva Aerobus’ position in the Latin American market. The aircraft's fuel efficiency will enhance operational cost savings.
Acumen’s Take:
Viva Aerobus' continued investment in A320neos reflects the airline's focus on cost-effective fleet modernisation. The aircraft’s fuel efficiency and increased range will support both domestic and cross-border operations.
YR-LIG Airbus A319-112 (c/n 2127) – FlyLili
Registered on 01/03/25, this ex-EI-IML Airbus A319 joins FlyLili’s fleet, potentially supporting the airline’s charter or scheduled operations in Europe.
Acumen’s Take:
As regional airlines continue optimising fleet compositions, the A319 remains a viable option for niche markets requiring lower-capacity aircraft with operational flexibility.
Global Aviation News
Beautech & JALUX Launch BVJ Engine Holdings for Global Leasing
Beautech Power Systems and JALUX Inc. have formed BVJ Engine Holdings, a 50/50 joint venture focused on leasing IAE V2500-A5 and Pratt & Whitney GTF PW1100G engines. The venture aims to acquire up to $150 million in assets.
Acumen’s Take:
As engine leasing demand rises, BVJ Engine Holdings’ entry into the market highlights increasing reliance on flexible leasing solutions amid ongoing supply chain challenges.
Boeing Appoints Don Ruhmann as New Chief Aerospace Safety Officer
Boeing has named Don Ruhmann as its Chief Aerospace Safety Officer, reinforcing the company’s focus on improving safety practices and regulatory compliance following recent scrutiny.
Acumen’s Take:
Boeing’s leadership change comes at a critical time as the company seeks to restore confidence in its safety culture. Strengthening oversight and transparency will be key to addressing regulatory concerns and rebuilding industry trust.
Brussels Airlines, Beobank, and Mastercard Introduce Exclusive Travel Credit Cards
Brussels Airlines has partnered with Beobank and Mastercard to launch co-branded travel credit cards, offering benefits such as miles accumulation and premium travel perks.
Acumen’s Take:
Airline-branded financial products remain a key strategy for boosting customer loyalty and driving ancillary revenue. This collaboration reinforces Brussels Airlines’ positioning in the premium travel segment.
Capacity Index Trends Upward as Q1 Ends
Aviation data reports indicate a steady rise in available cargo capacity in February 2025, reflecting market recovery and growing air freight demand.
Acumen’s Take:
Rising cargo capacity signals a stabilising global supply chain. As demand for air freight remains strong, airlines and logistics providers must manage fleet allocations efficiently to balance capacity with profitability.
CMA CGM Eyes 747-8F Operations via Air Belgium Acquisition Bid
French shipping giant CMA CGM is reportedly planning to expand its air cargo division by acquiring Air Belgium’s 747-8F operations, strengthening its logistics capabilities.
Acumen’s Take:
CMA CGM’s potential move into 747-8F operations signals growing interest from logistics companies in dedicated air cargo solutions. Expanding its fleet would position CMA CGM as a stronger competitor in the global freight sector.
EU Delays Visa-Waiver ETIAS System Until October 2026
The European Union has postponed the launch of its ETIAS visa-waiver system to October 2026, citing administrative and technical delays. The system was initially set to launch in 2024.
Acumen’s Take:
The delay gives airlines and travel operators more time to adjust booking systems and inform passengers. However, prolonged uncertainty may affect long-term travel planning within the Schengen zone.
Odyssey Aviation to Start New FBO Chain
Odyssey Aviation has announced plans to establish a new Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) chain, expanding its premium aviation services for private and corporate aviation clients.
Acumen’s Take:
With demand for business aviation on the rise, new FBO chains like Odyssey Aviation can capitalise on the need for high-quality ground services at key international hubs.
Irish Aviation News
ASL Airlines Launches Internship Programme
ASL Airlines has introduced a new internship programme aimed at developing future aviation professionals. The initiative will provide hands-on experience across various departments, offering students valuable industry insights and career-building opportunities.
Acumen’s Take:
With airlines facing a talent shortage, internship programmes like ASL Airlines' initiative play a critical role in building the next generation of aviation professionals. Investing in workforce development ensures long-term industry stability.
Councillors Approve Renewal of Dublin Airport Local Area Plan
Fingal County Councillors have approved the renewal of Dublin Airport’s Local Area Plan (LAP), setting the framework for future infrastructure developments and operational enhancements at Ireland’s busiest airport.
Acumen’s Take:
The LAP renewal is essential for Dublin Airport’s long-term growth, balancing expansion needs with environmental and regulatory considerations. Strategic planning will be key to ensuring sustainable airport operations.
Delayed Changeover at Sligo Search and Rescue (SAR) Base
The planned transition of search and rescue operations at Sligo SAR Base has been delayed, raising concerns about potential service disruptions. The changeover, initially scheduled for early 2025, is now facing setbacks due to logistical and operational challenges.
Acumen’s Take:
Any delays in SAR operations can impact emergency response times. Ensuring a seamless transition should be a top priority to maintain Ireland’s critical life-saving aviation services.
Willie Walsh Urges EU to Relax Competition Rules for Airline Consolidation
Former Aer Lingus CEO Willie Walsh has called on the European Union to ease competition regulations to allow further airline consolidation. He argues that stricter EU policies hinder airlines’ ability to merge and remain financially viable in a highly competitive market.
Acumen’s Take:
Consolidation can improve airline financial health, but it may also reduce competition, potentially impacting fares and service diversity. Striking the right regulatory balance will be crucial for Europe’s aviation sector.
Ryanair Urges Government to Lift Dublin Airport Passenger Cap
Ryanair has criticised the Irish government’s environmental concerns over aviation growth, calling for the removal of the passenger cap at Dublin Airport. The airline argues that current restrictions limit economic potential and connectivity.
Acumen’s Take:
While sustainability remains a priority, airport growth is essential for economic expansion. Finding a balanced approach that accommodates both environmental goals and passenger demand will be key to Dublin Airport’s future.
Titan Aviation’s Forbes Joins Cargo Facts Asia 2025
Titan Aviation’s Michael Forbes has been confirmed as a speaker at Cargo Facts Asia 2025. Forbes, an expert in freighter leasing and air cargo trends, will provide insights into the evolving air freight market and future investment strategies.
Acumen’s Take:
Cargo Facts Asia remains a key event for aviation stakeholders, highlighting the rapid growth of air cargo markets. With demand for freighter conversions and leasing on the rise, insights from industry leaders like Forbes are invaluable.
Tweet Picks
@AviationNews Air India is reportedly mulling a further large widebody order with both the Boeing 777X and the Airbus A350 in contention.
@BoeingAirplanes Our team has delivered the 100th completed 767-300 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF)! This milestone aircraft joins SF Airlines—the operator of the world’s largest 767-300BCF fleet—with the performance and reliability needed to support its global cargo network.
@BrandoRepublic United Airlines CEO: “The FAA is by far our biggest challenge. 68% of our delays were because of air traffic control restrictions. Sec. Duffy is committed to fixing it. For the first time in 20 years, I feel like we have the right folks.”
@CargoFacts FedEx is postponing the retirement of its MD-11F fleet by four years and is buying ten more Boeing 777Fs, securing more large-widebody freighter capacity amid a tight market.
Video Picks
Air India Signs Codeshare Pact with Air New Zealand
Air India and Air New Zealand have signed a codeshare agreement to enhance connectivity between India and New Zealand. This partnership will enable seamless travel across both airlines’ networks, providing passengers with more route options and streamlined transfers.
Acumen’s Take:
As demand for long-haul travel increases, strategic codeshare agreements allow airlines to expand their global reach without operating additional flights. This move strengthens connectivity between South Asia and the Pacific region, benefiting both airlines and passengers.
Canadian Airline Cancels Flights to Nashville
A Canadian airline has announced the suspension of flights to Nashville, citing demand fluctuations and route optimization. The move reflects ongoing adjustments in airline networks as carriers focus on profitability and efficiency.
Acumen’s Take:
Route cancellations highlight the evolving nature of airline network planning. Carriers are continuously evaluating demand and capacity to ensure route viability, and underperforming destinations are often the first to be cut in challenging market conditions.
Flight Centre Reports 40% Drop in U.S. Travel Bookings in February
Flight Centre has reported a 40% decline in U.S. travel bookings this February compared to last year. The slowdown is attributed to economic uncertainty, changing traveller sentiment, and visa challenges affecting inbound travel.
Acumen’s Take:
A significant decline in U.S.-bound travel could impact airlines, hotels, and tourism sectors. Carriers relying on transatlantic routes may need to adjust pricing, marketing strategies, or capacity deployment to counteract declining demand.
