03 Apr 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 3rd April 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: China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings (CALC) delivered its first A321neo from Airbus Mobile Facility, marking its 200th aircraft milestone. Comac announced plans to increase C919 production by 50%, aiming for 75 aircraft in 2025 and 200 by 2029. Hainan Airlines launched a direct Beijing-Oslo route, strengthening China’s global connectivity.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-5-March-2025-china-aviation-industry-newsletter
- India Aviation Industry Newsletter: Air India Express celebrated its 100th aircraft milestone with a Boeing 737 MAX 8, reflecting its rapid post-privatization expansion. Air New Zealand and Air India signed an MoU for a codeshare partnership, boosting connectivity between India and New Zealand. IndiGo introduced its IndiGoStretch product on the Delhi-Chennai route, offering premium perks for travellers.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-5-March-2025-india-aviation-newsletter
- Irish Aircraft Leasing Newsletter: Jackson Square Aviation appointed David Crull as its new CFO, succeeding Wilson Chen. Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC) sold two E190 airframes and two engines to Regional One. Phoenix Aviation Capital, AIP Capital, and LuminArx acquired three Airbus A330-300 aircraft leased to China Airlines and EVA Air.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-5-march-2025-irish-aircraft-leasing-newsletter
- Irish Commercial Aircraft Update: This edition covers significant fleet developments, including new aircraft deliveries, leasing transactions, and freighter conversions. Cebu Pacific Air and Buraq Air Transport have expanded their fleets with A320 aircraft. Avolon, Malta Air, and Wizzair Malta registered or ferried aircraft to enhance their leasing operations. Meanwhile, AerSale Air and BBAM Aircraft Leasing repositioned freighters to support the growing cargo market.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-5-March-2025-irish-commercial-aircraft-update
- North American Aviation Newsletter: Aviation Capital Group delivered a Boeing 737-8 MAX to Neos, marking the second of three scheduled deliveries. FedEx placed an order for 10 ATR 72-600F aircraft, expanding its regional cargo fleet. Malaysia Aviation Group confirmed an order for up to 60 Boeing 737 MAX jets to modernise its fleet. Air Lease Corporation announced the retirement of Executive Chairman Steven Udvar-Házy, who will transition to Non-Executive Chairman until 2026.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-5-March-2025-north-american-aviation-newsletter
IrishAero News
Boeing Delivers 175th 737 MAX to Ryanair Group
Boeing has delivered its 175th 737 MAX to Ryanair, marking a major milestone in the airline’s fleet expansion strategy. Ryanair has consistently relied on the MAX to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce operational costs. This latest addition aligns with its plans to expand capacity across its European network.
Acumen’s Take
Ryanair’s continued investment in the 737 MAX reaffirms the aircraft’s strong value proposition despite past challenges. The airline’s aggressive expansion and cost-cutting strategy indicate confidence in market recovery and sustained demand for low-cost travel. For lessors and investors, Ryanair’s fleet growth signals ongoing demand for narrowbody aircraft in the leasing market.
Fly4 Airlines Celebrates Its First Anniversary
Fly4 Airlines marks one year of operations, celebrating a year of steady network expansion and operational success. The airline has strengthened its footprint in key European markets, focusing on sustainable growth and passenger satisfaction. Plans for 2025 include further route additions and fleet expansion.
Acumen’s Take
A successful first year is a strong indicator of Fly4 Airlines' market adaptability. Start-ups that navigate initial operational challenges effectively often emerge as stable players. As Fly4 looks to expand, securing efficient aircraft financing and lease structures will be critical for long-term sustainability.
Neos Expands Fleet with a New 737-8 MAX
Neos has added a Boeing 737-8 MAX (EI-RZG) to its fleet, reinforcing its commitment to modernising its operations. The airline has strategically invested in next-gen aircraft to improve fuel efficiency and extend its long-haul capabilities. This move supports its expanding presence in both leisure and transatlantic markets.
Acumen’s Take
Neos’ fleet expansion aligns with a broader industry trend of airlines optimising fuel costs through next-gen aircraft acquisitions. As leisure travel demand grows, airlines with efficient fleet strategies will maintain a competitive edge. Lessors should watch how mid-sized carriers like Neos structure their lease agreements to balance operational flexibility and financial sustainability.
Aircraft Update
N993JA A330-343 Ferried to Mojave by Jetran
This former Oman Air A330 (ex-A4O-SD) was ferried via Muscat–Shannon–Bangor to Mojave between 18–19 March 2025. The aircraft is now in storage under Jetran’s management, pending reconfiguration or potential part-out.
Acumen’s Take
Widebody retirements continue as newer, more efficient aircraft replace ageing fleets. The A330 remains valuable for secondary lease markets or conversion, depending on maintenance status and market demand.
SE-RSX Embraer E195 Delivered to SAS Link
Delivered on 21st March 2025, SE-RSX (ex-9H-AKS) joins SAS Link in Copenhagen, bolstering the carrier’s regional jet fleet for Nordic and intra-European routes.
Acumen’s Take
E195s offer cost-effective capacity for regional operations. With growing demand for thinner routes and frequency over volume, this aircraft type continues to find favour with operators like SAS Link.
2-BTPO 737-86N(F) Registered by BBAM in Prague
BBAM Aircraft Leasing registered a Boeing 737-800 freighter (ex-4L-IGT) in Prague on 17th March 2025. The aircraft is expected to be deployed for short- to medium-haul cargo operations in Europe.
Acumen’s Take
Narrowbody freighter conversions remain strong, driven by e-commerce logistics. BBAM’s placement strategy underscores the ongoing appetite for mid-life 737-800Fs in intra-European and regional cargo markets.
Global Aviation News
Air France-KLM Expands Stake in SAS, Eyes Control of Air Europa
Air France-KLM is set to increase its stake in Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and pursue a controlling interest in Spain’s Air Europa. These moves aim to enhance its position in both Northern and Southern Europe, reinforcing the group’s multi-hub strategy and improving connectivity across key intra-European and long-haul corridors.
Acumen’s Take
This marks a major consolidation effort with potential ripple effects across Europe’s aviation landscape. Fleet standardisation, alliance alignment, and integrated leasing strategies are likely outcomes, offering fresh opportunities for lessors, ACMI providers, and OEM support across overlapping networks.
Hainan Airlines to Launch Heathrow–Haikou Route from 7 May
Hainan Airlines will commence direct flights from London Heathrow to Haikou, the capital of China’s Hainan province, on 7 May. The new service revives UK-Hainan connectivity and supports China’s ongoing efforts to strengthen inbound tourism and regional gateway hubs.
Acumen’s Take
This route signals growing confidence in China–Europe long-haul recovery. Carriers are gradually reintroducing widebody routes, which will drive renewed interest in A330 and 787 leasing activity, especially for China-linked operators expanding their international presence.
Hi Fly Adds A330-200 to Support Global ACMI Growth
Portugal-based Hi Fly has taken delivery of an Airbus A330-200 to expand its ACMI and wet-lease operations. The widebody is expected to serve high-demand markets worldwide, particularly for carriers facing capacity shortfalls or seasonal spikes.
Acumen’s Take
Hi Fly’s continued investment in versatile widebodies reflects the robust post-COVID ACMI demand. The A330-200 remains an ideal mid-cost, mid-capacity asset for bridging gaps in long-haul fleets, with strong secondary market viability.
Iberia and Aerolíneas Argentinas Partner to Enhance Spain–Argentina Links
The two flag carriers have launched a strategic partnership, combining schedules and commercial coordination between Madrid and Buenos Aires. This partnership aims to improve connectivity, streamline passenger experience, and boost transatlantic traffic.
Acumen’s Take
This bilateral cooperation strengthens both airlines' positions in a competitive long-haul corridor. Such alignments increase network resilience and provide predictable widebody utilisation—valuable for lessors supporting legacy carrier networks in LATAM and Europe.
KF Aerospace Acquires Second ATR72-500F for Purolator Contract
KF Aerospace has added a second ATR72-500 freighter to its fleet under a renewed contract with Purolator, supporting regional cargo operations in British Columbia. The aircraft will serve the growing demand for short-haul express freight services.
Acumen’s Take
Turboprop freighters like the ATR72 are increasingly vital to regional e-commerce logistics. KF’s expansion demonstrates how last-mile air cargo networks are shaping aircraft acquisition strategies in North America’s secondary markets.
LOT Polish Airlines to Lease Two Additional Boeing 787-8s
LOT Polish Airlines has announced plans to lease two more Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners as it scales up its long-haul network. The aircraft will support route expansion across North America and Asia and are expected to join the fleet by late 2025.
Acumen’s Take
LOT’s fleet investment confirms the continued recovery of premium long-haul demand. The 787-8’s efficiency and range make it an attractive option for mid-sized flag carriers, sustaining lease market demand for widebody twinjets with proven performance.
Irish Aviation News
LVA CEO Urges Government to Lift Dublin Airport Cap Immediately
Donal O’Keeffe, CEO of the Licensed Vintners Association, has called for urgent action to remove the cap on Dublin Airport’s passenger numbers. He argues that continued restrictions stall economic growth and hinder inbound tourism recovery, especially for the hospitality and retail sectors.
Acumen’s Take
Support from Ireland’s broader business community adds pressure for policy change. Long-term resolution of capacity constraints will directly impact airline fleet planning, route development, and airport investment decisions.
Mayo Man Donates Light Aircraft to Australian Charity
A retired aviation enthusiast from County Mayo has donated a light aircraft to an Australian aeromedical charity. The aircraft, which will be used for emergency relief and medical missions, symbolises a unique international gesture of goodwill from Ireland.
Acumen’s Take
While not commercial aviation news, this highlights aviation’s cross-border humanitarian potential. It also reflects Ireland’s strong grassroots connection to aviation and aircraft maintenance culture.
Motion Filed to Rename Kerry Airport in Honour of Daniel O’Connell
A political motion has been proposed to rename Kerry Airport after Daniel O’Connell, “The Liberator,” in recognition of his historic legacy. The renaming has stirred debate over symbolism, local identity, and tourism branding.
Acumen’s Take
Though mostly symbolic, airport naming can influence branding and destination recognition. Rebranding can present both challenges and opportunities for marketing, route promotion, and international visibility.
Aer Lingus Partners with Pittsburgh Steelers Ahead of Dublin NFL Game
Aer Lingus has entered a four-year partnership with the NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers ahead of their August 2025 game in Dublin. The deal ties in with the airline’s transatlantic strategy and broader efforts to connect sport with inbound US travel.
Acumen’s Take
This partnership strengthens Aer Lingus’s brand in the U.S. market and leverages major sporting events to stimulate tourism and route traffic. It also reflects smart alignment between airline sponsorships and leisure travel promotion.
Dublin Airport Opens Four New Food & Beverage Outlets
Passengers travelling through Dublin Airport will now enjoy four new F&B options, enhancing the terminal experience. These include Irish favourites and international brands across both terminals.
Acumen’s Take
Non-aeronautical revenue and passenger satisfaction are increasingly critical for airport profitability. Upgrading concessions adds commercial value and supports the airport’s efforts to elevate its global status.
Ryanair CEO Slams Ukrainian Airports Over Delays in Reopening
Michael O’Leary has publicly criticised Lviv and Kyiv airports for not responding to Ryanair’s proposals to resume post-war operations. He called the inaction “unprofessional” and urged faster coordination to restore connectivity.
Acumen’s Take
Ryanair’s aggressive stance underscores its desire to be first back into Ukraine post-conflict. Speed of airport coordination will be crucial for restarting services, with potential implications for aircraft allocation and Eastern European route expansion.
Tweet Picks
@Gatwick_Airport London Gatwick welcomes the announcement from the Secretary of State for Transport, who has said that she is minded to approve our Northern Runway plans, outlining a pathway towards approval later this year. The benefits of our privately financed plans are clear: creating new jobs, generating £1 billion a year in economic growth and supporting the UK's position as a leader in global connectivity.
@kevin_cullinane daa has presented cheques totalling €500,000 to 3 deserving charities: A Little Lifetime Foundation, Cliona's Foundation & Cork Penny Dinners. This follows a year of fundraising activities at Dublin & Cork airports by passengers and daa employees.
@LuxuryTravelled A rather mixed trading update from Jet2 this morning - LF down, late booking pattern continuing (questions just how good ‘peaks’ was), cost pressure from NI and SAF, new 2025 bases will be loss-making in first year (plus LTN lagging). However, expect FY increase profit.
@madeehamedia Making India a global aviation hub #AirIndia reduces wait time to 2.5 hours for connecting flights from UK & Europe to Australia & South-East Asia via India .Airline has launched a campaign called ‘Via’ to raise awareness among UK travellers about flying via India.
Video Picks
Ben Smith on Air France’s Upcoming First Class Cabin
Air France-KLM CEO Ben Smith shares insights into the airline’s forthcoming La Première cabin. The next-gen first class promises to raise the bar on luxury with larger suites, personalised service, and a renewed design focus for long-haul premium travellers.
Acumen’s Take
With demand for high-yield premium travel recovering, this signals Air France’s commitment to product differentiation on flagship routes. It's also a positive indicator for long-haul fleet upgrades and first-class retrofit investments.
BLR Airport CEO Reflects on Award Wins and Growth
Hari Marar, CEO of Bangalore’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), discusses the airport’s recent international accolades and its focus on sustainability, tech innovation, and passenger experience.
Acumen’s Take
BLR’s growth story reflects India’s evolving aviation landscape. Award wins boost its global positioning, attracting more international carriers and investments in terminal and cargo infrastructure.
Trump, O'Leary, Gallego & Smith on Aviation's Political Future
In a wide-ranging panel, aviation leaders discuss how political figures like Donald Trump could shape the future of the industry. Issues include trade tensions, subsidies, protectionism, and post-pandemic global alignment.
Acumen’s Take
Politics and policy remain closely intertwined with aviation strategy. Leadership changes in major markets may shift aircraft procurement, cross-border leasing, and airline alliances over the next five years.
