Virgin Australia Receives Its First Embraer E190-E2
Virgin Australia has taken a decisive step in modernizing its fleet with the incorporation of its first Embraer E190-E2, delivered by lessor Azorra, becoming the first airline in the country to receive this model.
The delivery ceremony was held at Embraer’s facility in São José dos Campos, Brazil, with executives from Azorra, Virgin Australia, and Embraer in attendance. The Brazilian manufacturer has accumulated 1,900 deliveries of its E-Jet family since 2004, making it the third most delivered aircraft in the history of commercial aviation.
A Strategic Bet for Virgin Australia Regional Airlines
The new E190-E2, with a capacity for 100 passengers, will become part of Virgin Australia Regional Airlines and will gradually replace the current Fokker 100 fleet. This change represents a leap in efficiency and sustainability, as the model promises fuel savings of up to 30% compared to the previous fleet, thereby reducing emissions and operational costs on key routes in Western Australia.
The airline will receive three additional units throughout the remainder of 2025 and into 2026, as part of a firm order for eight aircraft placed by Azorra with Embraer.
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Nick Rohrlach, Group Chief Executive Officer of Virgin Australia Regional Airlines, stated: “We are incredibly excited by the arrival of the Embraer 190-E2s into our fleet. Replacing the Fokker 100s with these state-of-the-art aircraft allows us to better connect the resources industry and regional communities of Western Australia, with greater reliability, less noise, and fewer emissions. These aircraft are designed for the demanding climates and environments in which we operate, while also offering a more spacious and comfortable onboard experience.”
Meanwhile, Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, added: “The delivery of the first E190-E2 to Virgin Australia together with our leasing partner Azorra is a milestone for Embraer’s evolution in the region. With its efficiency, low levels of noise and emissions, and enhanced passenger comfort, the E190-E2 represents a transformative leap from the Fokker fleet, perfectly complementing the airline’s larger narrowbody aircraft.”
Technology, Comfort, and Sustainability
Powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, the E190-E2 stands out not only for its performance and range but also for providing a quieter environment. Its two-by-two cabin configuration ensures a more comfortable journey for passengers, reinforcing Virgin Australia’s value proposition on regional routes.
A Firm Step Towards the Future
The arrival of the E190-E2s at Virgin Australia symbolizes much more than a fleet renewal: it is the consolidation of a strategy that bets on operational efficiency, sustainability, and enhancing the passenger experience in the Australian market.
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