Virgin Australia has solidified a firm order with Embraer for eight E190-E2 narrowbody aircraft as part of its fleet renewal strategy. These E190-E2s, renowned as the world’s most fuel-efficient single-aisle aircraft with the lowest noise emissions, will complement the airline’s larger narrowbody fleet and replace its aging Fokker aircraft. This order will be added to Embraer’s Q3 backlog, with deliveries set to begin in the second half of 2025.

The announcement event was graced by the Deputy Premier of Western Australia, Treasurer, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Tourism, the Hon. Rita Saffioti. Virgin Australia’s new E190-E2 fleet will be stationed in Perth and operated by Virgin Australia Regional Airlines (VARA). The aircraft, powered by Pratt & Whitney’s PW1900G engines, boasts a flying range of approximately six hours.

“When the new E190-E2 enters service from October 2025, it will become the first new aircraft in the WA charter market this century,” said Jayne Hrdlicka, Virgin Australia Group CEO. “The E190-E2 is the most fuel-efficient aircraft in its segment and will reduce emissions by about 30 per cent compared to the outgoing F100. These aircraft also feature significantly lower noise profiles and enhanced passenger comfort.” 

“When the E190-E2 joins the fleet from late next year it will predominantly operate charter flights for VARA, bolstering its position as a leading operator in the WA charter market.

“This is a huge vote of confidence by the Virgin Australia Group in our charter business and the WA market.”

“The E2 is a game changer,” said Martyn Holmes, Chief Commercial Officer, Embraer Commercial Aviation. “We are excited to welcome Virgin Australia to the Embraer family and look forward to seeing our best in class E2 – renowned for comfort, quietness, and low emissions – take the Airline to even greater heights.”

Building on two decades of operational excellence with the first-generation E-Jets, the E190-E2 brings significant advancements in aerodynamics, wing design, and innovative technologies, leading to notable reductions in carbon emissions and fuel consumption. The aircraft is certified to operate with blends of up to 50% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and has successfully demonstrated engine performance using 100% SAF in test flights.

Embraer remains dedicated to supporting the aviation industry’s ambition of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. The company aims to become carbon neutral by 2040 and achieve carbon-neutral growth starting from 2022. Embraer plans to incorporate 25% SAF into its operations by 2040 and transition to 100% renewable energy sources by 2030.

Since the first Bandeirante flew over Australia in 1978, Embraer has established a strong presence in the country, with nearly 50 aircraft currently in operation, making it home to one of the largest E-Jets fleets in the Asia-Pacific region.

The post Virgin Australia Embraces the Future with Eight Fuel-Saving E190-E2 Aircraft appeared first on Travel And Tour World.