Global Airlines Set for Historic $1 Trillion Revenue Milestone in 2025, and More

Dear readers,

Welcome to AviationOutlook Newsletter, your one-stop source for the most relevant Aviation & Aerospace news briefs and industry insights.

Here are the important updates for today. Let’s get started.

Airline Industry Projects Record $1 Trillion Revenue Despite Supply Chain Woes

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasts global airline industry revenue to surpass $1 trillion for the first time in 2025, reaching $1.007 trillion.

It also projects an expected net profit of $36.6 billion despite ongoing aircraft supply chain challenges.

Key Points

• Passenger numbers will reach an unprecedented 5.2 billion in 2025, representing a 6.7% increase from 2024.
• Operating costs are projected to rise to $940 billion, resulting in a net profit margin of 3.6%, up from 3.3% in 2024.
• Lower fuel prices and improved cost management are driving profitability, with average airfares expected to decrease by 1.8% to $380 in 2025.
• India and China are emerging as key growth drivers in the aviation market, with increasing middle-class populations fueling demand.
• Supply chain issues persist, with Boeing and Airbus struggling to meet delivery targets due to production delays and quality concerns.

What It Means

This forecast signals a remarkable recovery from the industry's $140 billion loss in 2020. The achievement of the trillion-dollar milestone signals a strong post-pandemic rebound.

However, challenges remain, including infrastructure deficiencies, regulatory pressures, and potential risks from global conflicts and political uncertainties.

Supply chain bottlenecks and quasi-monopolistic behavior of suppliers also pose significant challenges to sustained growth.

Other key Aviation and Aerospace Industry updates for today 👇

Airline Pilots Demand Action Amid Middle East Conflict Risks

European airline pilots are raising safety concerns over Middle East routes amid escalating regional conflicts.

Issues include anxiety over flying through conflict zones like Iraq and Syria, with some airlines rerouting flights to avoid risks.

Pilots demand better communication and risk assessments to ensure safety while balancing operational efficiency and cost considerations.

Transforming Defense with AI: C3 AI and Collins Aerospace Partnership

C3 AI and Collins Aerospace, an RTX business, have expanded their partnership to deliver advanced AI solutions for defense and intelligence.

Utilizing the C3 AI Defense and Intelligence Suite, including tools like C3 AI Readiness and Generative AI, the collaboration aims to enhance federal agencies' operational efficiency, decision-making, and mission readiness, supporting national security priorities through cutting-edge technology adoption.

Alaska Airlines Expands Global Reach With $1B Profit Strategy

Alaska Airlines unveiled plans to boost profits by $1B by 2027 through its Hawaiian Airlines acquisition, premium seating expansion, and loyalty program overhaul.

The strategy includes increasing premium seats to 29%, launching routes to Tokyo and Seoul, and more. The announcement drove shares up 12% to $60.81.

Electric Air Taxi Startup Joby Expands Public Offering to $300M

Joby Aviation, an eVTOL startup, has increased its public offering to $300 million ahead of its planned 2025 commercial launch. The funds will support certification, manufacturing, and launch preparations.

Joby aims to introduce air taxis in New York, Los Angeles, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi, partnering with Delta Air Lines and Uber.

This move follows recent FAA guidelines for eVTOLs and a $500 million investment from Toyota.

TriFan 600 VTOL Aircraft Advances Towards FAA Certification

XTI Aerospace presented its TriFan 600 VTOL aircraft to over 60 FAA representatives, marking a crucial step towards Type Certification.

The TriFan 600, a new category of aircraft called Vertical Lift Crossover Airplane (VLCA), combines helicopter-like takeoff and landing with fixed-wing efficiency.

It's designed for advanced air mobility, regional transport, emergency services, and corporate travel.

Air New Zealand Prepares for 2026 Electric Flights with Beta Aircraft Lease

Air New Zealand has leased Beta Technologies' ALIA CTOL electric aircraft for six months in 2025 to train pilots, refine operations, and demonstrate low-emission aviation.

The airline plans to operate the aircraft on a cargo route between Wellington and Marlborough, with charging infrastructure at both airports.

This initiative supports its Mission Next Gen Aircraft program, aiming for commercial electric flights by 2026 and contributing to its 2050 net-zero carbon goal.

Eve Air Mobility and Signature Aviation Partner for Advanced Air Mobility Infrastructure

Eve Air Mobility and Signature Aviation have signed an MoU to research ecosystem requirements and ground services for Advanced Air Mobility operations.

The partnership aims to leverage Eve's eVTOL expertise and Signature's global network of private aviation terminals.

They will explore commercial partnerships and integrate Eve's Vector urban air traffic management software. Eve recently launched TechCare, an all-in-one aftermarket services portfolio.

The collaboration seeks to create safe, efficient, and scalable ground operations for the future of urban air mobility.

Boeing Struggles to Recover as November Deliveries Hit Historic Low

Boeing's November deliveries plummeted to just 13 commercial jets, down from 56 a year ago, following a seven-week machinists' strike that ended November 5. The company delivered only nine 737s, two 777 freighters, and two 787-9s.

While Boeing has resumed 737 MAX production and plans to restart other models, it faces FAA scrutiny and aims to increase monthly 737 output to 38 units.

The company secured 49 new orders but had 14 cancellations in November.