Daily Briefing – September 27, 2025
Welcome to your daily overview of the most important developments in the air cargo and airline industry. Today’s highlights cover fleet changes, leadership moves, labor disputes, and safety concerns – all crucial information for logistics professionals keeping an eye on airfreight trends.
Fleet Updates and Network Expansions
Austrian Airlines is phasing out its Embraer E195s, with all 17 regional jets to be retired by 2028. The aircraft will largely be transferred to sister carrier Air Dolomiti, marking a major fleet shift in Vienna’s regional market after a decade of operation. Meanwhile, Congo Airways plans a comeback by adding an Embraer E190 to its fleet before year-end, aiming to resume operations after a lengthy pause.
Delta Air Lines continues to reinforce its fleet safety by replacing hundreds of auxiliary power units (APUs) on Airbus A319, A320, and A321 aircraft after a series of incidents related to contaminated cabin air caused symptoms like nausea and abnormal odors.
Network expansions are also underway with Delta launching a daily direct flight from New York JFK to Porto starting May 2026, part of a broader transatlantic growth adding seven new European routes. IndiGo, India’s largest carrier, will add daily flights from Mumbai to Denpasar (Bali) from October 18, complementing their existing Bengaluru-Bali connection.
New Routes and Special Services
Aeroflot restarts flights to Goa from multiple Russian cities by early October with weekly links from Novosibirsk and Yekaterinburg, signaling renewed demand for leisure travel. Similarly, Centrum Air expands its Russia service in the upcoming winter schedule, launching weekly flights connecting Bukhara with Vladivostok and enhancing domestic Uzbekistan routes.
In a unique offering, Iberia introduces a special charter flight exclusively bookable with Avios points for Iberia Club members, flying from Madrid to Rovaniemi (Lapland) at the end of December – catering directly to premium frequent flyers.
Leadership Changes
On the executive front, Jason Berry has been promoted to COO of Alaska Airlines, retaining his role as head of the cargo division across the Alaska Air Group. Berry succeeds Constance von Muehlen, who recently retired, signaling continuity in cargo leadership for the US-based airline group.
Labor Turmoil and Corporate Measures
Turbulence in European aviation labor continues: KLM warns in court of a larger-than-expected impact from upcoming ground staff strikes planned by unions FNV and CNV, which threaten to disrupt flights beyond the initial strike day. Meanwhile, Lufthansa is preparing to announce thousands of job cuts, potentially trimming around 20% of its administrative workforce. This news underscores ongoing cost pressures despite recent recovery in passenger numbers.
Japan Airlines faces internal crisis management after new alcohol-related incidents came to light involving cockpit crew. As a consequence, the airline’s president and 36 executives have faced substantial salary reductions, highlighting the airline’s strict response to safety risks.
Safety Concerns and Industry Warnings
Speaking of safety, pilot union members of Cabo Verde Airlines have raised alarm bells over management interference, claiming serious risks to flight safety. These accusations come amid struggles in the African island carrier’s operational and leadership environment, drawing attention to internal company challenges.
Support and Partnerships
The United States and Taiwan have reaffirmed their partnership with Air Marshall Islands by supporting fleet modernization efforts. This cooperation is linked to ongoing geopolitical strategic frameworks securing defense rights and regional access in the Pacific.
Additional Highlights
- Lufthansa celebrates 100 years with a striking special livery on one Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner featuring a giant crane motif, emphasizing the airline’s heritage and brand strength.
- Ceiba Intercontinental, the flag carrier of Equatorial Guinea, cautiously returns to service by operating a 50-seat Bombardier CRJ 200 LR under a wet-lease agreement, reflecting slow but steady recovery attempts.
- Ryanair plans to grow its Airbus fleet, while Turkish Airlines has placed a major aircraft order with Boeing, highlighting ongoing fleet renewal trends reported by industry sources.
Job Opportunities in Aviation
Looking for new opportunities? Our weekly pick of openings for aircraft mechanics, commercial staff, and logisticians in aviation can be found in the airliners.de job market section. Take off toward your next career move!
That’s it for today’s briefing. Stay tuned for our daily YouTube update and more insights tomorrow.