Airfreight Insider Daily Briefing – November 23, 2025
Welcome to today’s industry snapshot, your quick guide to the latest developments shaping air freight and aviation logistics worldwide.
Safety & Security: Rising Concerns in South America and Drone Threats in Europe
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a strong warning regarding the deteriorating security situation in Venezuelan airspace, highlighting increased military activity. In the wake of this, major carriers such as TAP, Avianca, and Gol have placed flights to and from Caracas on hold, citing safety concerns. These moves confirm growing operational challenges in the region, as reported consistently across multiple industry sources.
Meanwhile in Europe, multiple drone sightings triggered a full temporary shutdown of air traffic at Eindhoven Airport in the Netherlands over the weekend. Given the airport’s dual civilian and military role, the Dutch Defense Ministry deployed defensive measures, including the use of weapons against unauthorized drones over Volkel Airbase. Flight diversions to nearby airports like Weeze were implemented during the incident, underscoring increasing security risks drones pose to airport operations.
Network Adjustments & Route Changes
Low-cost carrier Ryanair announced it will terminate all flights to and from the Azores starting March 29, 2026. The airline cited sharply increased airport fees charged by Portuguese operator ANA, surging air traffic control costs, and additional surcharges as decisive factors prompting the withdrawal.
Positive news for regional connectivity comes from Lufthansa, which confirmed it will maintain its Munich route from Münster/Osnabrück Airport through 2026. This reassurance arrives despite previous doubts driven by rising costs at German airports, preserving a key link for the regional market.
Maintenance & Workforce Highlights
Russian carrier S7 Airlines has significantly expanded its maintenance capacity at Moscow-Sheremetyevo by opening the second stage of its engine overhaul facility. The new installation boosts the annual overhaul capability for CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B engines from 40 to 65 units, while also accelerating turnaround times — a strategic step to strengthen in-house MRO capabilities.
On the careers front, airliners.de continues to spotlight key aviation job openings this month, featuring opportunities for Safety Managers, Aircraft Mechanics, and Service Sales Professionals. Pilots and trainees can also look forward to the upcoming Career Experience event in Utrecht this January, where pilot trainer EPST is confirmed as a participant offering invaluable education and networking prospects.
Industry Updates: Passenger Experience and Labor News
Historical shifts in passenger demographics came to light as British Airways reflected on its 1980s First Class experience. The airline notably had to clarify that female First Class passengers were no longer just accompanying wives or companions but increasingly women executives and decision-makers themselves.
In regulatory moves to curb disruptive incidents onboard, France has introduced tougher penalties for “air rage” offenders, including heavy fines for first-time offenders. However, some loopholes remain, challenging enforcement efforts in this rising area of inflight security concern.
Worker representation saw progress with a recent tariff agreement secured for Eurowings cabin crew, marking a positive development in industrial relations and personnel management during a period of ongoing labor pressures.
Final Farewell to a Legend
The last U.S.-registered Douglas DC-8 has been retired from service by humanitarian organization Samaritan’s Purse after a decade of global aid missions. The retirement of this iconic aircraft marks the end of an era for the venerable classic still fondly remembered in aviation circles.
That’s all for today’s briefing. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s video update and continue navigating the fast-changing skies with airfreightinsider.com.