Airfreight Insider Daily Briefing – July 17, 2025
Welcome to your daily update on the latest developments in the air cargo and aviation sectors. Today we cover production plans at Boeing, airline network expansions, innovations in inflight services, industry partnerships, and insights into recent incidents and regulatory changes.
Boeing Eyes Production Boost and Key Certification
Boeing is reportedly considering increasing the production rate of its 787 Dreamliner to 16 units per month, surpassing the current maximum of 14. This move reflects strong demand and a push to optimize output. Meanwhile, the manufacturer aims to certify the 777-9 before the end of 2025, signaling progress on its next-generation widebody program. These developments come as the company seeks to stay competitive amidst growing market pressures.
Network and Fleet Expansion: New Routes and Aircraft Orders
Several airlines are actively expanding their networks and fleets. Qatar Airways will resume flights to Aleppo, Syria, after a 14-year hiatus, with tri-weekly services starting August 10 from Doha, increasing to four weekly flights in September. Aer Lingus is launching three new winter routes from Dublin and Cork to sought-after European winter destinations such as Turin and Geneva starting this December.
In fleet updates, Aegean Airlines is adding two Airbus A321XLRs to its lineup by the end of the year, accelerating plans to serve routes to India as early as summer 2026. Conversely, Wizz Air intends to reduce part of its order for the same aircraft type. German leisure carrier Condor has confirmed an order for four additional Airbus A330 Neo aircraft to bolster its long-haul capabilities.
Digital Innovation and Enhanced Passenger Experience
Tui is pioneering digital engagement inflight by launching a new platform that integrates entertainment, WhatsApp messaging, and trip planning on 59 aircraft, making flying more interactive and connected for passengers.
Eurowings meanwhile is enhancing its onboard experience with sensory details — introducing a custom “Burgundy Breeze” scent circulated in cabins, corporate-colored bonbons handed out on disembarkation, and curated music, all aimed at creating a more emotional connection during travel.
Lufthansa Cargo Joins Hightech Cluster to Boost Semiconductor Logistics
Lufthansa Cargo has become the first airline member of Silicon Saxony, Europe’s largest network for microelectronics, semiconductors, and IT industries based in Dresden. This strategic partnership could strengthen air cargo logistics focused on the fast-growing and highly specialized semiconductor supply chain, providing closer collaboration with over 600 companies in the cluster.
Industry Insights: Private Equity Interest in European Cargo Handlers
The air cargo handling sector in Europe is attracting renewed interest from U.S. private equity firms. With players such as Alliance Ground International (AGI) already owned by Audax Private Equity and Greenbriar Equity Group looking to expand, the market may see consolidation and strategic investments aimed at extending service networks and capabilities.
Operational Challenges and Market Demand
United Airlines has reported a robust recovery in travel demand since July, prompting an upward revision of its annual forecasts. However, short-term earnings may take a hit due to operational disruptions at its Newark hub.
In contrast, Easyjet faced a significant strike by French air traffic controllers in early July, costing the carrier approximately £25 million and pushing its stock price down by 8%. Despite this, Easyjet remains optimistic about strong profit growth for the year, although it also confronts rising fuel costs.
Air Safety and Investigations Update: Air India 787 Crash
The investigation into the tragic Air India Boeing 787 crash on June 12 is focusing on cockpit voice recordings that suggest the captain may have deliberately switched off fuel supply to both engines. Authorities are scrutinizing why and how these “fuel switch” operations were performed. This new information raises critical questions about pilot actions preceding the accident, as reported by multiple aviation media outlets.
Airport Infrastructure and Technology Modernization
Rotterdam The Hague Airport has launched a series of terminal renovations starting with works on the upper floor. The modernization aims to improve passenger processing by 2026 and positions the airport for future growth and enhanced customer experience.
In airline IT, Saudia is upgrading its booking systems by replacing traditional PNRs and e-tickets with dynamic order-based records using an Amadeus solution, aligning with the industry’s digital transformation trend.
Regulatory News: Online Enforcement of Passenger Rights
Passenger rights enforcement is about to become more accessible in Germany. The federal cabinet has approved legislation enabling passengers to file claims online for flight disruptions and cancellations. Early digital services for such claims have already begun, streamlining the process and empowering travelers to seek compensation more efficiently.
Strategic Moves: IAG Eyes TAP Privatization and Lisbon Hub
The International Airlines Group (IAG) plans to participate in the privatization of TAP Air Portugal and intends to develop the Lisbon hub further. Portugal is offering 44.9% of TAP’s shares for sale, and alongside IAG, two other European airline groups have expressed interest in acquiring stakes, indicating a competitive bidding phase ahead.
Record Cargo Operation with Boeing 747 in Glasgow
Charter specialist Chapman Freeborn set a new cargo milestone at Glasgow Prestwick Airport by handling the longest single piece ever processed there—a 20-meter-long, 24-ton structural component—transported on a Boeing 747. This operation highlights the ongoing importance of oversized cargo capabilities in air freight logistics.
That wraps up today’s briefing. Stay tuned for our daily video analysis on YouTube and till tomorrow for more updates from the air cargo world.
Your Airfreight Insider Editorial Team