Azorra has delivered the first new Embraer E190-E2 twin-engine passenger aircraft to Virgin Australia, marking a new airline partnership for the lessor and the first Embraer E190-E2 to be operated by a major airline group in Australia.
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The delivery of the E-Jet was marked by a handover ceremony at Embraer’s São José dos Campos facility, hosted by senior representatives from Azorra, Virgin Australia and Embraer. With 1,900 deliveries since 2004, the E-Jet is the third most delivered aircraft in history.
These new generation, small narrowbody aircraft will support Virgin Australia Regional Airlines’ fleet modernization efforts as it replaces its current fleet of Fokker 100s with the Embraer E2 variant. Delivered from Azorra’s firm orderbook with Embraer, another three aircraft will be delivered to Virgin Australia later this year and through 2026. Virgin Australia has a total of eight firm orders for E2 aircraft.
The new 100-seat E190-E2 will deliver fuel savings of up to 30% compared to Virgin Australia’s current Fokker 100 fleet, lowering emissions and operating costs on key routes in Western Australia. Powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, the E190-E2 offers greater efficiency, range and superior performance, while its quiet, spacious two-by-two cabin ensures a more comfortable journey for passengers.
Arjan Meijer, President & CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation, says: “The delivery of the first E190-E2 to Virgin Australia together with our leasing partner Azorra is a significant milestone for Embraer’s evolution and growth in the region. With its exceptional efficiency, low noise and emissions profile, and enhanced passenger comfort, the E190-E2 will be a game changing step up from the airline’s venerable Fokker fleet, perfectly complementing the airline’s larger narrowbodies.”
