Daily Briefing – Airfreight Insider – September 26, 2025
Good morning, airfreight professionals! Today’s briefing covers fresh developments in airline ownership battles, strategic fleet expansions, digital connectivity leaps, and operational challenges disrupting the sector. Let’s dive in.
Potential Bidding War Brewing for TAP Air Portugal
Air France-KLM has publicly announced its intention to place a bid for a stake in TAP Air Portugal, igniting what could become a competitive battle for control of the carrier. This move comes as the Franco-Dutch airline group prepares to extend its shareholding in Scandinavian SAS next year, signaling an ambitious expansion strategy in Europe. Industry watchers expect heightened activity around TAP, which remains a coveted asset in the region’s aviation landscape.
Fleet Updates: Airbus A330 and A380 in Spotlight
The Airbus A330 continues proving its versatility. Recent features highlight the aircraft’s adaptability, from passenger flights to tanker and cargo configurations, including unique expeditions such as a polar flight. Meanwhile, Thai Air Force is set to become the first operator of the military Airbus A330 MRTT+—a tanker and medevac variant of the A330neo introduced in 2024, underpinning the platform’s growing strategic value.
On the commercial side, Singapore Airlines operated an unusual Airbus A380 flight from Frankfurt, which was aborted mid-flight near Azerbaijan, reflecting perhaps operational or regulatory complexities with ultra-large aircraft. Also, Emirates celebrates its 25th anniversary of the Skywards loyalty program by introducing a special livery on one of its A380s, continuing to showcase the iconic aircraft’s role in its brand identity.
Airline Fleet Expansions and Configurations
Ryanair’s CEO Michael O’Leary announced plans for a major fleet expansion, considering the addition of up to 200 Airbus aircraft to its subsidiaries, a significant jump from the current 26 Airbus jets it operates through Lauda. This points to more aggressive growth in European low-cost operations.
Taiwan’s China Airlines will increase Business Class capacity on its Taipei-Amsterdam route this winter by deploying an Airbus A350 with an upgraded seating layout, aiming to cater better to premium demand on this key long-haul route.
In cargo, MAS Cargo has taken delivery of two additional Airbus A330-300 freighters, converted by Titan Aviation Leasing. Powered by Rolls-Royce engines, these aircraft strengthen MAS’s freighter operations amid growing air cargo demand.
Digitalization Boost: United Cargo Partners with CargoAi
United Cargo has joined forces with CargoAi to enhance digital booking and logistics capabilities. Through this partnership, over 23,000 freight forwarders gain real-time access to both domestic and international air cargo capacity, including instant pricing and booking features, elevating transparency and agility in the airfreight marketplace.
Labor and Industry Relations Update
In Germany, the three aviation unions Vereinigung Cockpit, Ufo, and Agil have formed a coalition named “We are Aviation” to present a united front on key issues such as wage dumping and critical labor shortages. This collaboration aims to strengthen negotiating power against employers and large unions like Verdi.
Meanwhile, Dutch cabin crew union VNC has paused collective bargaining negotiations with KLM, criticizing ongoing increased workload demands without sufficient compensation — a sign of rising tensions in European airline labor relations ahead of winter season pressures.
Operational & Security Challenges
The Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) continues to struggle with a persistent cyberattack affecting core IT systems. The disruption, unresolved for nearly a week, threatens to cascade into further delays and operational difficulties.
At Munich Airport, authorities arrested an internationally wanted Iranian fraud suspect following cross-border collaboration with Swiss law enforcement, highlighting ongoing security enforcement efforts in European hubs.
Additionally, the German airport association ADV called for government legislation and funding for drone defense technologies, citing over 140 drone sightings this year alone — a growing challenge for airport security.
Cost Pressures in German Aviation
An increase of 5% in departure and landing fees is planned for 2026 in Germany, after steep hikes last year. The Federal Association of German Airlines (BDF) has expressed concerns that rising state-imposed fees could burden carriers and potentially impact route profitability and ticket prices.
Spotlight on Sustainable Transformation in Travel Tech
On the occasion of World Tourism Day on September 27, the travel industry’s pivotal role in sustainability is in focus. Travel tech companies, in particular, are recognized as key innovators driving environmentally friendly practices and digital solutions that can reduce the carbon footprint of global tourism and air travel.
Summary
- Air France-KLM’s bid for TAP could reshape ownership dynamics in European aviation.
- Airbus aircraft remain central to fleet strategies, both military and commercial.
- Ryanair and China Airlines ramp up growth with fleet expansion and better cabin products.
- Digital partnerships like United Cargo and CargoAi boost air cargo’s tech-driven transformation.
- Labor coalitions and disputes signal ongoing workforce challenges across Europe.
- Security and cyber risks add pressure on airport operations and infrastructure resilience.
- Costs rise as German airports increase fees, affecting airline economics.
Stay tuned for more in tomorrow’s edition of Airfreight Insider Daily Briefing. Fly safe and stay agile!