Daily Briefing – June 16, 2025
Welcome to today’s edition of airfreightinsider.com, your go-to source for the latest developments in air cargo and aviation logistics. From major aircraft orders to shifting geopolitical risks impacting the Middle East, here is what you need to know to stay ahead.
Riyadh Air and AviLease Lead Major Airbus Orders at Paris Air Show
The Paris Air Show 2025 witnessed significant commitments from Saudi Arabian companies, signaling strong confidence in the region’s aviation growth. Riyadh Air placed a firm order for 25 Airbus A350-1000 widebodies, with options for an additional 25 aircraft. This marks the airline’s third major type selection alongside its 39 Boeing 787s and 60 Airbus A321neos.
In a complementary move, Saudi-based lessor AviLease made headlines by ordering 10 Airbus A350 freighters (A350F) with options to increase to 22 jets, simultaneously securing 30 A320neo family aircraft. AviLease’s deal positions it as one of the largest customers for Airbus’s new widebody freighter, expanding its footprint in the cargo leasing market. The lessor’s direct engagement with Airbus underlines a growing trend of investment in modern, fuel-efficient aircraft for both passenger and freight operations.
These announcements highlight a growing demand for versatile, long-range aircraft in the Middle East amid ongoing regional normalization efforts and infrastructure expansion. (Sources: Luchtvaartnieuws, Stattimes, Aerotelegraph)
Frontier Airlines Ties Down Pratt & Whitney Engines with Long-Term Support
On the engine front, US low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines reaffirmed its partnership with Pratt & Whitney by ordering engines from the GTF family for 91 Airbus A321neos, scheduled for delivery beginning Q4 2026. The deal also includes a long-term maintenance contract, underscoring the airline’s strategy to optimize operational reliability while keeping fuel efficiency high.
Hybrid Aviation and Digital Innovations on Display
French aircraft manufacturer Aura Aero reported over 650 orders for its ERA hybrid regional aircraft, with a booking value exceeding $10.5 billion. This strong interest at Le Bourget aligns with the growing focus on sustainable aviation technologies within regional markets.
Meanwhile, traditional carriers continue to innovate digitally. Lufthansa expanded its digital suite to include new self-service functionalities and introduced a “Travel ID” feature, improving passenger convenience. In parallel, Japan’s All Nippon Airways (ANA) extended free in-flight internet services to both domestic and international flights, boosting passenger experience in a competitive aviation environment.
Industry and Labor Relations: Verdi and FraSec Reach Security Workers Wage Agreement
On the labor front, the German union Verdi has reached a tariff agreement with FraSec Aviation Security GmbH, securing wage increases for air security personnel. This deal mirrors previous settlements with the Federal Association of Aviation Security Companies (BDLS), aiming to enhance stability in a critical sector of airport operations.
Geopolitical Tensions and Travel Impacts in the Gulf Region
The Middle East remains under international scrutiny as escalating conflicts between Israel and Iran trigger broader travel cautions. The German Foreign Office expanded its travel warnings to seven Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Jordan, urging against unnecessary travel. These advisories come amid heightened security concerns following recent rocket attacks and a tragic Air India crash, which has led to a subdued atmosphere at the Paris Air Show this year.
Adding to regional tensions, Israeli pavilions at the airshow were reportedly closed by French authorities over contentious issues related to weaponry displays — a move criticized by Israeli stakeholders and sources close to the industry.
Ryanair Pushes EU to Address Air Traffic Control Issues
European air traffic management problems remain in focus as Ryanair publicly called on the EU Commission to intervene. The budget carrier highlighted persistent inefficiencies affecting Germany and other major European countries, pressing for reforms to minimize delays and disruptions in airspace management.
Noteworthy Operational News
- Turkish Airlines doubles daily flights from Bremen to its Istanbul hub starting late June, reflecting increased demand on this popular corridor.
- Romanian carrier Dan Air has restarted regular passenger services to Damascus, Syria, with plans to add Berlin connections via transfers.
- Expeditors remains embroiled in a legal dispute, with recent developments indicating the plaintiff will appeal a magistrate’s recommendation in an ongoing court case.
- Air Peace publicly condemned Nigerian Senator Adams Oshiomhole for disruptive behavior at Lagos airport, spotlighting challenges of passenger conduct on airport operations.
Summary
The 2025 Paris Air Show unfolds under a complex mix of optimism around new aircraft orders and the sobering realities of regional conflict and security concerns. Saudi Arabian players continue to invest heavily in fleet expansion and modernization, while airlines and unions navigate operational and labor challenges. Against this backdrop, digital innovation and sustainable aviation technologies remain key themes shaping the future of air freight and passenger air travel alike.
Stay tuned for our daily video briefing for deeper insights and interviews from Paris and beyond.