Airfreight Insider Daily Briefing – October 3, 2025
Dear readers,
Welcome to your Daily Briefing, giving you a concise overview of the latest and most important developments shaping the airfreight and aviation sector today. From production updates and growing markets to operational challenges and technological advancements — here is what’s moving the industry on this crisp October morning.
Aircraft Production and Fleet News
Embraer faces uphill battle to meet 2025 delivery goals. With just 46 jets delivered after three quarters, Embraer needs a strong final quarter to hit its target of 77-85 deliveries this year. If the pace mirrors 2024’s muted Q4, the Brazilian manufacturer might just miss its forecast. A tight finish is on the horizon.
Airbus begins end assembly of the A350 Freighter in Toulouse. The European manufacturer is progressing well with the new A350F, having pre-assembled wings and fuselage sections in multiple locations. This move reflects Airbus’ growing focus on responding to the booming global air cargo demand.
KLM launches its first Airbus A350 full-flight simulator at Schiphol. This simulator will prepare pilots for the upcoming A350 passenger and freighter fleet, with KLM expecting its first A350 in 2026 and the A350F to follow in 2027. These moves underline the airline’s commitment to fleet modernization and sustainability efforts.
Boeing’s 777X delays grow, costing billions. Now expected to enter service only in 2027 instead of 2026, the 777X faces yet another postponement. For launch customer Lufthansa and Boeing alike, this means continued challenges and substantial financial burdens.
Market and Network Expansions
Asia-Europe airfreight experiences a brief spell of intensity. A combination of Golden Week festivities, a typhoon, and halted China-Europe rail services has pushed rates somewhat higher on Asia-Europe routes, which remain the central airfreight corridor this quarter. However, transpacific traffic shows no similar spike, indicating a selective uplift.
IndiGo resumes flights to China after diplomatic thaw. Following the restoration of India-China relations disrupted since 2020, IndiGo has promptly reinstated routes, seizing growth opportunities on this historically important air corridor under the leadership of ex-KLM CEO Pieter Elbers.
Air India ups frequency to London Heathrow. The Indian flag carrier will increase its Delhi-London service from three to four daily flights for the winter 2025 season, responding to sustained passenger demand on this key long-haul lane.
Norwegian expands at Denmark’s Billund Airport. Stepping in after Ryanair’s exit, Norwegian will add flights to ten new destinations starting next spring, aiming to capitalize on the gap left by Ryanair’s departure due to rising airport charges.
EgyptAir plans major US expansion with Chicago and Los Angeles routes. The Egyptian national airline has filed for approval to launch flights to these two major US hubs from May 2026, signaling a broadening reach into the important North American market.
Maastricht Aachen Airport welcomes Avianca Cargo. Starting October, the Dutch airport has added biweekly freighter services operated by Colombian carrier Avianca Cargo, enhancing connections between Europe and Latin America.
Operational Challenges and Disruptions
National strike disrupts flights and airport access in Italy. Widespread industrial action affects airports across Italy today, with cancellations and difficult access expected. Passengers and logistics operators should plan accordingly.
Drone sightings cause temporary disruptions. Munich Airport briefly shut down operations after a drone was detected, though flights have now resumed. Meanwhile, 15 unidentified drones were reported over a Belgian military area, prompting investigations by local defense authorities.
Alaska Airlines recalls newly introduced business class glassware. After debuting a new collection of glasses for premium cabins, technical issues forced an immediate withdrawal. The setback illustrates the ongoing challenges airlines face when innovating in passenger services.
Industry and Regulatory Updates
India introduces digital e-Arrival Card for travelers. Since October 1, paper-based customs forms have been replaced by a new electronic arrival card, streamlining immigration procedures and improving border efficiency.
Transatlantic air travel market continues to grow. Air traffic across the North Atlantic surged by 55% since 2010, positioning this market among the top five largest international air routes. Currently, 49 airlines serve the corridor, reflecting its immense commercial importance.
Other Noteworthy News
- Delta Airlines pulls out all stops for Breast Cancer Awareness Month — The airline is painting the month pink, integrating awareness campaigns across its operations globally and continuing its two-decade partnership with breast cancer research foundations.
- airliners.de releases 2026 aircraft calendar — Fans and professionals can now order the new calendar, with subscribers to “airliners+ Private” receiving copies as loyalty gifts.
- Oscar Echo Business Jets is hiring airworthiness specialists. Opportunities exist for continuing airworthiness specialists or trainees in Eisenstadt, Austria, for aviation professionals seeking a growing environment.
That wraps up today’s update. Stay tuned for our video overview on airfreightinsider.com and follow us for continuous coverage of the dynamic freight aviation landscape.
Best regards,
Your airfreightinsider.com Editorial Team