Daily Briefing – December 17, 2025
Welcome to your daily update on the latest trends and key developments in the air cargo and logistics world. As we approach the end of 2025, the sector is gearing up for a challenging but transformative 2026. Here is what you need to know today.
Industry Transformation and Digital Innovation
Magma Aviation has reached a milestone in its digital transformation journey with the launch of a fully tailored Cargo Management System (CMS) designed specifically for air cargo commercial operations. The new platform aims to seamlessly meet operational demands and enhance efficiency across Magma’s business, marking an important step in modernising cargo handling workflows.
Meanwhile, Lufthansa Group is upgrading its Airbus A320 fleet with advanced 4D trajectory information technology. Starting in 2026, 134 aircraft will be equipped with FANS-C digital communication systems, enabling more precise flight path optimisation and improving operational predictability. This move is expected to increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, in line with the group’s sustainability goals.
Additionally, Swissport is expanding its pharmaceutical logistics footprint by adding Düsseldorf to its roster of 24 IATA CEIV Pharma-certified centres worldwide. This increase in certified facilities will support the growing demand for temperature-controlled, secure cargo handling in the pharma and life sciences sectors.
Fleet and Network Developments
Apollo Global Management is reportedly exploring the sale of Atlas Air, potentially valuing the cargo carrier at over $12 billion including debt. Discussions are preliminary, but this development could have significant implications for the air cargo leasing and wet-lease market.
In other fleet news, the US Air Force is confirmed to be acquiring two Boeing 747-8 aircraft believed to be sourced from Lufthansa. These planes will serve in training and maintenance programs connected to the future presidential air fleet.
The ground handling landscape at Eindhoven Airport is also shifting, as Viggo acquires Skytanking’s operations there, consolidating its position as the sole handler at the Dutch airport. This streamlining may impact handling dynamics for cargo and passenger services alike.
Network Expansion and New Routes
Air Baltic is set to increase frequencies on over 30 routes from Riga, Tallinn, and Vilnius for summer 2026, enhancing connections to key European cities including Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Vienna, and Zurich. This expansion reflects steady demand growth in and out of the Baltic region.
On the passenger front, Air Uniqon, operating with partner Avanti Air, has opened bookings for flights from Friedrichshafen to Berlin, Düsseldorf, and Hamburg—marking an interesting expansion of virtual airline services with smaller regional aircraft.
Sector Challenges: Workforce and Regulation
The transport and logistics sector remains on edge heading into 2026. After widespread layoffs dubbed “Sack Friday” on December 12, industry insiders warn of further pressures. With continually shifting market dynamics and economic uncertainties, many see these cuts as the “lesser evil” to preserve core capabilities in a tough operating environment.
North American logistics players express cautious optimism for a calmer new year; however, the looming threat of regulatory intensification and potential US government shutdowns could disrupt air freight operations early in the year. Brandon Fried, executive director of the Airforwarders Association, highlights these risks that could weigh on global supply chains.
Partnerships and Service Enhancements
Vietnam Airlines has deepened its collaboration with SATS, an air cargo and ground service leader, through a new strategic partnership signed in Hanoi. The alliance focuses on strengthening aviation services and fast-tracking logistics development in Southeast Asia.
At Schiphol Airport, changes in passenger experience are underway for the holiday season: children will be allowed into two of the three Privium lounges during the Christmas break for the first time, subject to paid admission—even for non-members—reflecting a softer stance towards family travelers during peak periods.
Technology and Infrastructure Updates
The Flughafen-Express (FEX) train service to Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) has launched a new route since December 14, with the Deutsche Bahn deploying significant scheduling buffers to ensure punctuality. Detailed operational tests highlight both the efficiency and remaining challenges on the line connecting central Berlin and the airport.
In Brief
- Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines are reportedly in renewed talks over a potential merger. For struggling Spirit, the deal could be a critical lifeline.
- From May 1, 2026, the Dutch Tax and Benefits Administration will switch their banking services from ING to Rabobank, affecting account numbers but no immediate changes to payments.
- A cautionary word on crew conduct: recent attention has been drawn to alcohol consumption among flight deck members, highlighting the zero-tolerance stance on sobriety as a non-negotiable safety imperative.
Stay tuned for tomorrow’s update as the sector continues to evolve amidst economic, regulatory, and technological shifts.
Your air cargo industry insight team — airfreightinsider.com