31 Jan 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 31st January 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 booming aviation landscape, including Vietjet's expanded network, sustainable advancements with Avolon and Air New Zealand, and the National Civil Aviation Work Conference outlining ambitious 2025 targets for passenger and cargo growth.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-4-jan-2025-china-aviation-industry-newsletter
- India Aviation Industry Newsletter: Covering Air India's strategic connections for the Maha Kumbh Mela, IndiGo's expansion into Madinah for religious tourism, and Air Kerala's launch from Kochi, this newsletter focuses on India's growing domestic and international aviation impact.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-4-jan-2025-india-aviation-newsletter
- Irish Aircraft Leasing Newsletter: Featuring AerFin’s teardown of an ex-JAL Boeing 777-300ER, NAC's lease agreement with SAS, and Clover Aviation Capital's new Dublin office, this edition underscores Ireland's leadership in the global aircraft leasing market.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-4-jan-2025-irish-aircraft-leasing-newsletter
- Irish Commercial Aircraft Update: This newsletter reports key aircraft movements, including Cityjet’s CRJ900 ferrying to Dayton, AerCap’s Boeing 777 undergoing freighter conversion, and ITA Airways’ A320 retirement to St Athan, reflecting dynamic shifts in fleet operations.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-4-jan-2025-irish-commercial-aircraft-update
- North American Aviation Newsletter: Focused on innovation and leadership, this newsletter highlights American Airlines' partnership with Baker Aviation College, United's rapid Starlink rollout, and Southwest Airlines' executive leadership transition, underscoring evolving strategies in North American aviation.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-4-jan-2025-north-american-aviation-newsletter
Irish Aero News
Dublin Airport Celebrates 85 Years
Dublin Airport commemorates its 85th anniversary, marking decades of growth since its first passenger flight in 1940. Over the years, it has transformed into a vital hub connecting Ireland to the world, handling more than 36 million passengers annually. The airport now boasts over 240 routes served by 35 airlines. With its robust infrastructure and continuous improvements, Dublin Airport remains a cornerstone of Irish aviation, supporting tourism, business, and connectivity.
Acumen’s Take
Dublin Airport's journey over the past 85 years reflects the resilience and innovation of the Irish aviation sector. For Acumen, milestones like these highlight the importance of strategic infrastructure development and global connectivity in sustaining long-term growth. As a key player in aircraft asset management, Acumen sees airports like Dublin as pivotal in facilitating efficient fleet utilisation and fostering global aviation partnerships.
Ryanair Unveils Record Dublin S25 Schedule
Ryanair has announced its largest-ever Dublin schedule for Summer 2025, featuring 130 routes and over 2,000 weekly flights. This includes six new destinations, such as Kos, Brindisi, and Asturias, as the airline bolsters its commitment to the Irish market. The airline plans to base 33 aircraft at Dublin Airport, a $3.3 billion investment, supporting 1,000 local jobs and offering passengers more travel options.
Acumen’s Take
Ryanair’s record-breaking schedule underscores the enduring demand for affordable and accessible air travel. From Acumen’s perspective, this expansion demonstrates the critical role of fleet optimisation and strategic route planning in meeting passenger needs while ensuring profitability. Such robust schedules also present opportunities for leasing companies to cater to growing capacity demands in the short- to medium term.
Volotea A319 Arrives at Ireland West Airport
Volotea’s Airbus A319 (registration EC-NBD) has arrived at Ireland West Airport for part-out and recycling. This marks another significant development in sustainable aviation practices, as older aircraft are responsibly retired to maximise material reuse and minimise environmental impact. Ireland West Airport continues to play an important role in facilitating such transitions for the aviation sector.
Acumen’s Take
The arrival of Volotea’s A319 for part-out highlights the growing emphasis on sustainable fleet management and lifecycle optimisation. Acumen views this as a critical step in supporting the industry’s green transition. By efficiently managing end-of-life processes, stakeholders can unlock residual value while aligning with global sustainability goals, reinforcing Acumen’s commitment to comprehensive asset lifecycle management.
Aircraft Update
VP-CVE Boeing 787-9 c/n 37308 FitzWalter Aviation ferried to Glasgow Prestwick 18/01/25 ex EI-LNJ
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, registered as VP-CVE and bearing construction number 37308, was ferried to Glasgow Prestwick Airport on January 18, 2025. Previously registered as EI-LNJ, this aircraft was initially delivered to Norwegian Air Shuttle in 2018. Following Norwegian's financial restructuring and subsequent fleet adjustments, the aircraft was returned to its lessor, FitzWalter Aviation. The ferry flight to Glasgow Prestwick signifies FitzWalter Aviation's intent to position the aircraft for potential future leasing opportunities or sales.
Acumen's Take:
The repositioning of VP-CVE underscores the dynamic nature of aircraft asset management in the current aviation landscape. Lessors like FitzWalter Aviation are strategically relocating aircraft to optimise their marketability. Glasgow Prestwick Airport, with its maintenance facilities and favourable positioning, serves as an ideal location for such activities. This move reflects the ongoing adjustments within the industry as stakeholders navigate post-pandemic recovery and evolving market demands.
2-SMBC Airbus A320-232 c/n 4496 South African Airways Delivered to Johannesburg 23/01/25
South African Airways (SAA) has expanded its fleet with the addition of an Airbus A320-232, registered as 2-SMBC and bearing construction number 4496. Delivered to Johannesburg on January 23, 2025, this aircraft was previously operated by Qatar Airways as A7-AHF. The acquisition aligns with SAA's strategy to modernise its fleet and enhance operational efficiency. The A320-232 is well-suited for SAA's regional and domestic routes, offering improved fuel efficiency and passenger comfort.
Acumen's Take:
SAA's fleet expansion with the A320-232 demonstrates the airline's commitment to rebuilding and strengthening its market position. The choice of the A320-232 reflects a focus on operational efficiency and route optimisation. As the aviation industry continues to recover, strategic fleet enhancements are crucial for airlines aiming to meet passenger demand and achieve sustainable growth.
Global Aviation News
EasyJet’s New CEO Forecasts Full-Year Profit of €839m After €47m Quarterly Loss
EasyJet's newly appointed CEO has projected a full-year profit of €839 million despite reporting a €47 million loss in the recent quarter. The optimistic forecast is attributed to anticipated strong summer bookings and cost-control measures. The airline plans to increase capacity and leverage pent-up travel demand to achieve its profit targets. This outlook reflects confidence in the airline's strategic initiatives and the broader recovery of the aviation sector.
Acumen's Take:
EasyJet's profit projection underscores the airline's resilience and strategic planning in navigating post-pandemic challenges. The focus on capacity expansion and cost management is essential for capitalising on the resurgence in travel demand. However, the industry must remain vigilant to external factors such as fluctuating fuel prices and potential geopolitical tensions that could impact recovery trajectories.
Hungary Airlines Receives AOC
Hungary Airlines has been granted its Air Operator's Certificate (AOC), marking its official entry into the aviation market. The carrier plans to operate an Airbus A330-200F, focusing on cargo routes between Europe and China. The acquisition of the AOC enables Hungary Airlines to commence commercial operations, contributing to the growing air cargo demand driven by global trade dynamics.
Acumen's Take:
The entry of Hungary Airlines into the cargo sector highlights the increasing recognition of air freight's critical role in global supply chains. Operating the A330-200F allows the airline to serve long-haul routes efficiently, catering to the high demand for expedited cargo services between Europe and Asia. This development aligns with the broader industry trend of expanding cargo operations to meet e-commerce and manufacturing logistics needs.
Nayak and Nordic MRO Join Forces
Nayak Aircraft Services has completed the acquisition of Hovby Aero AB, operating as Nordic MRO, effective January 15, 2025. This strategic move enhances Nayak's presence in Northern Europe and expands its maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities. The combined entity aims to offer improved services to customers across the Nordic region and throughout Europe, leveraging shared expertise and resources.
Acumen's Take:
The consolidation of Nayak and Nordic MRO reflects a strategic effort to strengthen service offerings in the competitive MRO sector. By uniting their operations, the companies can provide more comprehensive and flexible solutions to airline customers, ensuring higher standards of maintenance and operational efficiency. This merger is indicative of the broader industry trend towards consolidation to achieve economies of scale and enhanced service delivery.
Universal To Build Madrid’s First Dedicated GA Hangar
Universal Aviation Spain has announced plans to construct Madrid's first dedicated general aviation (GA) hangar at Barajas Airport. The facility, spanning nearly 54,000 square feet, is expected to be completed by late 2026. This development aims to cater to the growing demand for GA services in Madrid, providing state-of-the-art amenities for private and business aviation clients.
Acumen's Take:
The establishment of a dedicated GA hangar in Madrid signifies the increasing importance of business aviation in Europe's major hubs. Universal Aviation's investment addresses a critical infrastructure gap, offering enhanced services for private operators and contributing to the region's economic development.
Volotea to Close Athens Base After Summer 2025 Season
Spanish low-cost carrier Volotea has announced plans to shut down its base at Athens International Airport (ATH) following the conclusion of the summer 2025 season, ending six years of operations at this hub. Despite the base closure, Volotea intends to maintain its flight schedule to and from Athens, offering approximately 330,000 annual seats. The airline will continue to serve over 100 routes through its codeshare agreement with Aegean Airlines, ensuring connectivity between Greek destinations and Europe.
Acumen's Take:
Volotea's decision to close its Athens base reflects a strategic shift towards operational efficiency and cost management. By leveraging its codeshare partnership with Aegean Airlines, Volotea can maintain a significant presence in the Greek market without the overhead associated with a dedicated base. This move underscores the importance of strategic alliances in the aviation industry, enabling carriers to optimise route networks and resource allocation. As airlines continue to navigate post-pandemic recovery, such decisions highlight the need for flexibility and adaptability in operational planning.
Irish Aviation News
KPMG Aviation Leaders Report 2025
KPMG, in collaboration with Airline Economics, has released the Aviation Leaders Report 2025, titled "The Supply Strain." The report highlights ongoing challenges in aircraft manufacturing, noting that the anticipated recovery in production rates has not materialised as expected. Issues such as supply chain bottlenecks, labour strikes, and component shortages have significantly impacted both Boeing and Airbus, leading to revised delivery forecasts. The report also discusses the broader implications of these supply constraints on airline performance, fleet planning, and the secondary market for aircraft.
Acumen's Take:
The insights from the Aviation Leaders Report 2025 shed light on the multifaceted challenges facing the aviation industry. Supply chain disruptions not only affect aircraft production but also have downstream effects on airlines' fleet strategies and operational capabilities. For stakeholders across the aviation ecosystem, including lessors, operators, and service providers, understanding these dynamics is crucial for effective decision-making. Proactive engagement with suppliers, investment in alternative solutions, and strategic fleet management will be essential to navigate the complexities highlighted in the report.
NOAA Deploys Aircraft to Support Weather Satellite Data Validation Mission
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has deployed one of its Lockheed WP-3D Orion "hurricane hunter" aircraft to Shannon, Ireland, as part of the "Ocean Winds" project. Commencing on January 16, 2025, this mission aims to measure ocean-surface winds in winter storms over the North Atlantic to calibrate and validate data collected by weather satellite sensors. This initiative is crucial for enhancing the accuracy of satellite-based weather data, which is integral to forecasting and climate modelling. Ireland's strategic location offers an advantageous vantage point for studying these powerful winter storms.
Acumen's Take:
NOAA's deployment underscores the critical role of airborne missions in supporting satellite data validation. Accurate weather data is essential for aviation operations, impacting flight planning, safety, and efficiency. Collaborations between meteorological agencies and the aviation industry enhance the reliability of weather forecasting, benefiting airlines and passengers alike. As climate patterns evolve, continued investment in such missions will be vital to ensure the resilience and adaptability of global aviation operations.
Ryanair Should Be Ireland’s ‘Calling Card’ in Trade Talks with Trump, Says O’Leary
Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary has advocated for the airline to serve as Ireland's "calling card" in trade discussions with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Highlighting Ryanair's significant contribution to transatlantic connectivity and its role in promoting Irish tourism, O'Leary emphasises the airline's potential to strengthen economic ties between Ireland and the United States. He suggests that leveraging Ryanair's extensive network and competitive business model could be advantageous in negotiations aimed at enhancing trade and investment opportunities.
Acumen's Take:
Michael O'Leary's proposition underscores the strategic importance of aviation in international trade relations. As a major player in European air travel, Ryanair's expansive network facilitates business and tourism, contributing significantly to Ireland's economy. Positioning the airline as a focal point in trade discussions could highlight the value of robust air connectivity in fostering economic partnerships. This approach reflects a broader recognition of the aviation sector's role in supporting global commerce and diplomatic engagement.
Winners of the Irish Travel Industry Awards for 2025
The Irish Travel Industry Awards for 2025 have recognised excellence across various categories in the travel sector. Honorees include leading airlines, tour operators, travel agencies, and hospitality providers who have demonstrated outstanding performance, innovation, and customer service. The awards celebrate the resilience and adaptability of the industry amidst evolving market dynamics and underscore the commitment of Irish travel professionals to delivering exceptional experiences.
Acumen's Take:
The recognition of industry leaders through the Irish Travel Industry Awards highlights the dedication and innovation prevalent within the sector. Celebrating these achievements not only honours individual excellence but also inspires broader industry advancement. As the travel landscape continues to evolve, such accolades encourage organisations to strive for higher standards, fostering a culture of continuous improvement that benefits consumers and stakeholders alike.
Tweet Picks
X Post Picks:
@EoghanOMW “The increase in available bed capacity for 2025 is good news, particularly for downstream businesses like visitor attractions, activity providers and hospitality businesses,” chief executive @Failte_Ireland Paul Kelly told The Irish Times.
@EXYUaviation #Belgrade Airport registers busiest year on record as it targets North Africa, UK and Ireland routes in 2025.
@FlynorseCeo A historic route; Norse Atlantic is the first airline to launch direct flights between Los Angeles and Athens!.
@SAS Next-gen Wi-Fi is coming onboard! With @SpaceX Starlink, you can enjoy high-speed internet - even over remote areas like the North Pole or Atlantic Ocean. Rolling out fleet-wide in late 2025, and free for EuroBonus members!.
Video Picks
Indigo CEO Pieter Elbers Discusses Q3 Earnings
Indigo CEO Pieter Elbers highlights strong travel demand, forex challenges, and growth plans, including fleet expansion and new routes.
Acumen's Take
Indigo’s strategic network expansion and forex risk management reflect strong leadership. However, cost control remains critical to sustaining profitability.
Kenny Jacobs: Never Underestimate Dublin Airport
Kenny Jacobs emphasises Dublin Airport’s role as a key European hub, highlighting its economic contributions and the need for continuous infrastructure investment.
Acumen's Take
Dublin Airport's strong positioning in transatlantic travel is an asset, but investment in capacity and efficiency is crucial to sustain growth and competitiveness.
Ryanair CFO Neil Sorahan on Q3 Results
Ryanair reports a €149M Q3 profit, citing strong holiday bookings, but lowers passenger forecasts due to Boeing 737 MAX delivery delays.
Acumen's Take
Ryanair’s profit resilience is commendable, but aircraft delays highlight supply chain risks. Agile fleet management will be key for future growth.
