Airfreight Insider Daily Briefing – October 29, 2025
Welcome to your daily briefing on the most relevant developments shaping the airfreight and broader aviation sectors. Today’s insights span from new airline collaborations, expanding cargo networks, to important infrastructure upgrades, and emerging geopolitical dynamics influencing flight operations. Let’s get started.
Russia Pushes to Restart Direct Flights with Japan and South Korea
In a significant move that could reshape air traffic flows in Northeast Asia and deal a setback to European carriers, Russian authorities have revealed ongoing talks with Japan and South Korea to restore direct flight operations, including overflight rights. According to Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, consultations with airlines are underway, signaling potential reopening of this vital route corridor amid geopolitical complexities. This development marks a possible thaw in aviation ties in the region, with far-reaching implications for passenger and cargo routes.
Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines Now Operating Under Single FAA Certificate
More than a year after their merger, Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines have officially received a joint operating certificate from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration. This milestone confirms the integration of both carriers under one regulatory umbrella, streamlining governance and operational synergies. Industry watchers expect this consolidation to enhance network efficiency and offer customers more seamless connectivity across North America and Pacific routes.
UPS Supply Chain Solutions Sets New Profitability Benchmark
UPS Supply Chain Solutions surprised the logistics world by posting an operating profit of $536 million in Q3, with a remarkable adjusted operating margin of 21.3%. This figure far exceeds the usual EBITDA margins of 9-11% generally seen in logistics and signals a possible new profitability standard for supply chain services. Atlanta-based UPS continues to leverage innovation and scale to outperform industry expectations, setting a strong example for global competitors.
Notable Industry Leadership Change at DSV
After nearly 43 years with DSV, Michael Dyhre Hansen, Chief Commercial Officer for Air & Sea Services, is retiring. Hansen’s career journey from KE Freight Forwarding Denmark to EVP at DSV in the US reflects a deep legacy within the freight forwarding giant. His departure closes a significant chapter for DSV, which will now look to the next generation of leadership amid evolving market dynamics.
Infrastructure Boost: Dublin Airport to Gain New Rail Link
Dublin Airport, a key European low-cost and short-haul hub, is set to benefit from the Metrolink project that will connect the airport directly to the Irish capital via rail for the first time. Until now, bus services offered only limited connections. With this rail link, the airport is poised for further growth in passenger and cargo traffic, enhancing accessibility for airlines such as Ryanair and Aer Lingus.
Lufthansa’s 747 Forced to Return After In-Flight Attack
A Lufthansa Boeing 747-8 had to make an unscheduled landing at Boston Logan Airport last Saturday following a violent incident onboard, where a passenger attacked two fellow travelers with a fork. The incident underlines ongoing challenges around passenger safety and security in long-haul operations.
Swiss and Zurich Airport Launch Inclusion Initiative with Sunflower Lanyards
Starting November 1, Swiss Airlines and Zurich Airport together with partners will introduce the globally recognized green “Sunflower” lanyard, enabling passengers with hidden disabilities or special needs to signal their situation discreetly. The initiative aims to foster greater awareness and empathy, supporting more inclusive customer service experiences in aviation environments.
Fleet and Network Updates
- Lufthansa is set to retire its Airbus A340-600 fleet by early 2026, contingent upon Boeing 787 Dreamliner deliveries. This ends the era of four-engine long-haul jets at Germany’s flagship carrier.
- Air Calin ramps up for the upcoming holiday season by leasing a Boeing 777 to increase weekly flights on the Nouméa-Paris route via Bangkok, ensuring schedule reliability amid heightened demand.
- Etihad Cargo expands its freighter network for Winter 2025, adding new routes and increased frequencies to key manufacturing hubs, boosting airfreight capacity along major Asian, Middle Eastern, and European corridors.
- My Freighter Airlines has signed an interline agreement with National Air Cargo, aiming to deepen connectivity across Uzbekistan, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.
- Meanwhile, Indigo is exploring interim solutions to enhance its long-haul capacity before the arrival of its Airbus widebodies, delayed due to Pratt & Whitney engine issues.
Regulatory and Security Highlights
Frankfurt Airport will soon introduce an updated border control process for non-Schengen travelers, replacing the traditional passport stamping — signaling a modernization of entry formalities in Europe’s largest hub.
In Belgium, reports confirm the presence of drones over military bases—deemed sophisticated and not operated by amateurs—raising questions about security and surveillance measures in European airspace.
Airline Industry and Market Movements
- Eastern Airways has ceased all flight operations abruptly, with the UK Civil Aviation Authority advising passengers to seek alternatives.
- Aeroflot is calling for protective measures against alleged price dumping by Chinese airlines, as demand for travel to China surges among Russian consumers.
- Emirates continues its award-winning streak, recently securing the “Best International Airline” title at the 2025 Forbes Travel Guide Verified Air Travel Awards and additional top prizes for its first-class service.
- Thai Airways partners with IBS Software to upgrade its Royal Orchid Plus loyalty program, underlining the ongoing digital transformation efforts across the airline sector.
That wraps up the key developments for today. Stay tuned for our daily video for deeper analysis and interviews.
— Your airfreightinsider.com Editorial Team