06 Feb 2025
Acumen Daily Aviation Brief - 6th 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 newsletter discusses BOC Aviation's expansion with 47 new aircraft commitments in 2024, achieving a record-owned portfolio of 435 aircraft. It also covers China Aircraft Leasing Group's acquisition of two Boeing 737-800 aircraft, scheduled for delivery by August 2025. Additionally, it highlights China Eastern Airlines' partnership with Travelport to enhance distribution capabilities through multi-source content solutions, including New Distribution Capability (NDC) content.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-1-feb-2025-china-aviation-industry-newsletter
- India Aviation Industry Newsletter: This edition covers Air India's appointment of Airesources Incorporated as its General Sales Agent in the Philippines to enhance market presence. It reports on Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru's 17% year-on-year increase in cargo volumes, solidifying its position as India's leading airport for perishable exports. The newsletter also highlights IndiGo's launch of daily flights between Mumbai and Jharsuguda, Odisha, aimed at boosting regional connectivity.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-1-feb-2025-india-aviation-newsletter
- Irish Aircraft Leasing Newsletter: This newsletter details Avolon's completion of its acquisition of Castlelake Aviation Limited, adding 106 leased aircraft to its portfolio. It also announces ABL Aviation's appointment of Donal O’Shea as Chief Technical Officer to oversee global technical operations. Additionally, it covers Engine Lease Finance Corporation's purchase of an Airbus A320-200 from Aircraft Leasing & Management and SMBC Aviation Capital's delivery of a fourth Airbus A320neo to Chile's SKY Airline.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-1-feb-2025-irish-aircraft-leasing-newsletter
- Irish Commercial Aircraft Update: This update highlights significant movements in the Irish aviation sector, including Aer Lingus's acquisition of a new Airbus A321-253NY, Air Astana's ferrying of an Embraer 190-E2 to Amman, and ITA Airways' repositioning of an Airbus A320-214 to Varna. Additionally, it covers ASL Airlines Ireland's transfer of a Boeing 737-4Q8(F) to Mojave for potential modifications and Aergo Capital's ferrying of an Airbus A330-343 to Shanghai for Passenger-to-Freighter conversion.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-1-feb-2025-irish-commercial-aircraft-update
- North American Aviation Newsletter: This edition reports on Aviation Capital Group's delivery of a Boeing 737-9 MAX to United Airlines, BNDES's approval of R$2.1 billion financing for Embraer to export 16 E-175 aircraft to Republic Airways, and Broward Aviation Services' acquisition of a Boeing 737 NG from AerCap for disassembly. It also highlights JetBlue's introduction of the 'EvenMore' premium travel experience, offering enhanced passenger amenities.
READ NOW: https://www.acumen.aero/blogs/-1-feb-2025-north-american-aviation-newsletter
Irish Aero News
Aer Lingus Launches Dublin-Verona Airbus A330 Charter Series
Aer Lingus will commence a weekly charter service between Dublin and Verona on January 11, 2025. Operating on behalf of a tour operator, the service will use a 317-seat, two-class Airbus A330-300 aircraft under flight numbers EIN4416/17. The inaugural flight was conducted by EI-DUZ, an Airbus A330-302 (MSN 0847). This deployment underscores Aer Lingus's strategic use of its wide-body fleet to capitalise on seasonal travel demand to popular destinations like Verona, renowned for its proximity to world-class ski resorts.
Acumen’s Take:
Aer Lingus's decision to deploy the Airbus A330-300 for a European charter route demonstrates a flexible fleet utilisation strategy, optimising aircraft usage during off-peak long-haul periods. This approach not only maximises asset productivity but also caters to niche markets, enhancing revenue potential.
Air Thanlwin Revitalizes Fleet with Ex-Aer Arann ATR72
Yangon-based Air Thanlwin has returned an ATR72-212A (500) aircraft, registered as XY-AJI (msn 797), to service after a period of storage. Formerly registered as EI-REP with Aer Arann, this aircraft is one of two ATR72-500s in Air Thanlwin's fleet with Irish origins. The airline, which rebranded from Yangon Airways in 2019, now operates a fleet comprising two ATR72-212 and two ATR72-212A (500) aircraft.
Acumen's Take:
Reintroducing previously stored aircraft reflects Air Thanlwin's adaptive fleet management in response to evolving market conditions. Effectively utilising existing assets can be a cost-efficient strategy for meeting rising passenger demand without immediate capital expenditure on new aircraft.
FlyArystan Expands Fleet with New Airbus A320neo
Kazakhstan's low-cost carrier, FlyArystan, has taken delivery of a new Airbus A320neo, registered as EI-KFD (msn 12272), on January 15, 2025. This addition brings the airline's A320neo fleet to 11, contributing to a total fleet of 24 aircraft, including 13 Airbus A320ceos. The new aircraft, named "Spica," symbolises the airline's aspiration to lead in affordable and comfortable air travel. FlyArystan's President, Richard Ledger, highlighted that this acquisition enables the airline to offer new routes and increase flight frequencies, reaffirming its commitment to environmental responsibility.
Acumen's Take:
FlyArystan's fleet expansion with the fuel-efficient A320neo aligns with industry trends toward sustainability and cost-effectiveness. The A320neo's advanced technology offers reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions, supporting the airline's growth strategy in the competitive low-cost market.
Aircraft Update
Vueling Adds Airbus A320-232 to Castellón Operations
Vueling has taken delivery of an Airbus A320-232 (MSN 7760), registered as OE-IOD, which was delivered to Castellón on 29th January 2025. This addition is expected to enhance the airline's operational flexibility, particularly for its short-haul and medium-haul European routes.
Acumen’s Take:
The addition of another A320 to Vueling’s fleet aligns with its ongoing strategy to modernise operations and increase efficiency. With the European short-haul market showing steady demand, strategic aircraft acquisitions like this help strengthen its position in the budget airline sector.
Regional One Ferries CRJ200 to Cairo
Regional One ferried a CRJ200 (MSN 7622) to Cairo on 2nd January 2025, indicating potential lease or resale activity. The aircraft’s movement suggests demand for smaller regional jets, particularly in North Africa and the Middle East, where regional connectivity is critical.
Acumen’s Take:
The CRJ200 remains a popular choice for airlines and operators looking for cost-effective solutions in regional markets. Given the increasing focus on regional connectivity in Africa and the Middle East, this movement could be part of a growing trend of secondary market activity for such aircraft types.
Global Aviation News
Lufthansa Group Expands Wet Lease Partnership with airBaltic
Lufthansa Group has strengthened its collaboration with airBaltic through an extended wet-lease agreement. This expansion reflects a growing trend among European airlines to optimise fleet utilisation and meet increasing travel demand. It allows airBaltic to operate additional flights on behalf of Lufthansa and its subsidiaries, ensuring greater flexibility and operational efficiency.
Acumen’s Take:
The move highlights the importance of strategic wet-leasing in today’s aviation landscape, particularly amid ongoing supply chain challenges. Such agreements allow airlines to respond to demand surges without immediate large-scale fleet investments.
Royal Jordanian Increases Stake in Jordan Flight Catering Company
Royal Jordanian has expanded its investment in Jordan Flight Catering Company by increasing its stake to 51%, positioning itself as the majority shareholder. This move is aimed at securing greater control over in-flight service quality and streamlining catering operations.
Acumen’s Take:
Airlines are increasingly focusing on enhancing customer experience, and controlling in-flight catering is a strategic move. This investment will enable Royal Jordanian to improve efficiency, maintain service consistency, and strengthen its competitive advantage in the region.
Somon Air Orders Two Boeing 737 MAX Aircraft from DAE Capital
Tajikistan’s Somon Air has signed an agreement with DAE Capital to acquire two Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. This acquisition reinforces the airline's plans for fleet modernisation and route expansion. The airline aims to enhance regional and international connectivity with these fuel-efficient jets.
Acumen’s Take:
This deal reflects the growing confidence in the 737 MAX as airlines seek modern, fuel-efficient aircraft to reduce operational costs. Somon Air’s investment also signals the continued expansion of Central Asian aviation markets, which are poised for growth post-pandemic.
ACI Europe President Calls for Modernized Aviation Policies
During a conference in Brussels, the president of ACI Europe emphasised that the aviation sector cannot address contemporary challenges with outdated regulatory frameworks. He called for new policies that accommodate sustainability goals, technological advancements, and evolving market demands.
Acumen’s Take:
The aviation industry is undergoing rapid transformation, and regulatory bodies must evolve alongside it. Policymakers need to embrace flexible, forward-thinking regulations that support industry innovation while balancing sustainability and market efficiency.
Wizz Air Focuses on Network Densification Strategy
Wizz Air is shifting its growth strategy toward network densification. Instead of aggressive expansion into new markets, the airline aims to optimise existing routes. The airline is expected to increase flight frequencies and improve connectivity within its current network.
Acumen’s Take:
Wizz Air’s decision to prioritise route densification over expansion is pragmatic, given operational challenges and fluctuating market conditions. Strengthening existing routes can improve profitability, enhance customer loyalty, and streamline resource allocation.
Irish Aviation News
IATA DG Willie Walsh Advocates for UK Airport Expansion
IATA Director General Willie Walsh has urged the UK government to prioritise airport expansion projects to ensure the country remains competitive in global aviation. He emphasised the need for improved infrastructure, citing growing passenger demand and the economic benefits of increased air connectivity. Walsh warned that without investment in capacity, the UK risks losing its status as a major aviation hub.
Acumen’s Take:
Expanding airport capacity is essential to sustaining long-term industry growth, particularly as demand continues to rise post-pandemic. The UK must adopt a forward-looking strategy that balances infrastructure development with sustainability goals to maintain its position as a global aviation leader.
Ireland’s Potential in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Discussed on eVTOL Podcast
Veronica Sesoko from the Drone Innovation Partnership shared insights into Ireland’s potential role in the emerging Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector. She highlighted key opportunities for Ireland to integrate AAM solutions into urban transport, logistics, and emergency services, leveraging the country’s existing expertise in aerospace and drone technology.
Acumen’s Take:
As AAM technologies evolve, Ireland has a strong foundation for becoming a hub for innovation in this field. Collaboration between regulators, technology firms, and industry stakeholders will be crucial in shaping the future of AAM and ensuring its safe and efficient integration into national transport frameworks.
World Star Aviation Completes GEnx-1B Sale and Leaseback Transaction
World Star Aviation has successfully closed its first-ever sale and leaseback transaction involving GEnx-1B engines. This marks a significant milestone for the company as it strengthens its position in the aircraft engine leasing sector. The transaction reflects increasing demand for flexible leasing solutions in the aviation industry, particularly for next-generation engines.
Acumen’s Take:
The sale and leaseback market for aircraft engines is becoming increasingly attractive, offering airlines cost-effective alternatives to direct ownership. With sustainability and efficiency at the forefront, leasing next-generation engines like the GEnx-1B will continue to be a critical strategy for airlines seeking operational flexibility.
25,000 Attend Holiday World Show Dublin at RDS Simmonscourt
Dublin’s annual Holiday World Show held at RDS Simmonscourt, attracted an impressive 25,000 attendees, highlighting the growing enthusiasm for travel in 2025. The event featured international travel exhibitors, industry experts, and panel discussions on emerging travel trends, reflecting the strong post-pandemic demand for leisure and business travel.
Acumen’s Take:
The high attendance at Holiday World Show Dublin signals strong consumer confidence in travel recovery. This also presents opportunities for airlines, tour operators, and aviation businesses to align their offerings with shifting traveller expectations, particularly in leisure and premium travel segments.
Dublin Airport Handles 33.3 Million Passengers in 2024
Dublin Airport reported a total of 33.3 million passengers passing through its terminals in 2024, underscoring a strong recovery for Ireland’s aviation sector. The airport saw a significant increase in both domestic and international traffic, driven by new route additions and rising demand for air travel.
Acumen’s Take:
Dublin Airport’s passenger growth reaffirms Ireland’s vital role in global and European aviation networks. However, as passenger numbers continue to rise, infrastructure and operational efficiency will need to be prioritised to accommodate future growth while maintaining high service standards.
Tweet Picks
X Post Picks:
@emirates We’ll be resuming services to Beirut, Lebanon and Baghdad, Iraq with daily flights, from 1 February 2025.
@eoghancorry The US reported 494,344 visits from Ireland in 2024, up 8.6pc on last year – down 5pc on pre pandemic.
@jonostrower Boeing has likely delivered the last 777-300ER. This report from @theaircurrent is as much a news story as it is an appreciation of the best selling widebody aircraft of all time.
@martinjoconnell "Make Flying Great Again" - O'Leary knows his audience!.
Video Picks
IndiGo CEO: Air Travel in India Remains ‘Largely Unpenetrated’
IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers highlights that despite the remarkable growth in India's aviation sector, the country remains vastly underpenetrated in terms of air travel. He discusses India's economic expansion, growing middle-class demand, and increased air connectivity to smaller cities. IndiGo aims to capitalise on this momentum by expanding its fleet and enhancing regional connectivity to cater to the next wave of air travellers.
Acumen's Take
India’s aviation sector holds significant long-term growth potential, driven by rising disposable incomes, an expanding working population, and increasing regional connectivity initiatives. The untapped market presents opportunities for lessors and MRO providers to cater to the rising demand for fleet expansion and maintenance support. Acumen Aviation sees this as a compelling area for strategic partnerships in asset management, financing solutions, and digital transformation to optimise fleet utilisation.
Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan on Q4 Results
Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan discusses the company’s financial performance for Q4 2024, acknowledging the ongoing challenges posed by fluctuating fuel prices and operational constraints. Despite these challenges, Southwest continues to focus on network optimisation, strategic cost reductions, and improvements in customer experience. Jordan emphasises plans for capacity expansion and fleet modernisation to strengthen the airline’s competitive position in the U.S. market.
Acumen's Take
Southwest’s resilience in navigating market uncertainties highlights the importance of robust cost management and operational efficiency. As the airline continues to expand and refresh its fleet, there are increased opportunities for aircraft leasing, secondary market transactions, and asset lifecycle management. Acumen Aviation foresees demand for digital solutions that enhance aircraft efficiency, optimize fuel management, and streamline maintenance planning.
United Airlines' Growth Driven by ‘Premium Routes’
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby outlines the airline’s strategic focus on premium long-haul routes, capitalising on growing demand for business and leisure travel. The carrier is investing in higher-capacity aircraft, upgrading in-flight services, and expanding transatlantic and Asia-Pacific connectivity. United sees significant growth potential in corporate travel and premium economy offerings, which are driving higher yields.
Acumen’s Take
United’s emphasis on premium routes underscores the ongoing shift towards high-margin revenue streams in the aviation industry. This trend aligns with increasing investments in long-haul fleet modernisation and cabin enhancements. For lessors and asset managers, this means continued demand for widebody aircraft with premium configurations. Acumen Aviation recognises the need for agile asset management strategies, optimising fleet deployment based on evolving passenger preferences and macroeconomic trends.
