Azorra delivers first Embraer E190-E2 in Australia
Aircraft to join Virgin Australia’s modernised fleet
Virgin Australia has placed a firm order for eight E190-E2s, with an additional three jets expected to arrive later this year and in 2026
Aircraft leasing firm Azorra has supplied Virgin Australia with the country’s first Embraer E190-E2, initiating fleet renewal and replacing Fokker 100s. The advanced aircraft improves efficiency, passenger comfort and environmental sustainability.
Virgin Australia has placed a firm order for eight E190-E2s, with an additional three jets expected to arrive later this year and in 2026
Azorra, a leading aircraft lessor, has delivered the first Embraer E190-E2 twin-engine passenger jet to Virgin Australia, marking a milestone for both companies and the aviation industry in Australia.
This event, celebrated with a handover ceremony at Embraer’s São José dos Campos facility, also marks the first time a major Australian airline group will operate the advanced E190-E2 jets.
In a press statement, Azorra says that the delivery is part of Virgin Australia Regional Airlines’ fleet modernisation strategy, replacing its aging Fokker 100 aircraft with more efficient, environmentally friendly models.
The statement adds that Virgin Australia has placed a firm order for eight E190-E2s, with an additional three jets expected to arrive later this year and in 2026.
It says that these aircraft, configured with 100 seats and powered by Pratt and Whitney GTF engines, promise fuel savings of up to 30 pc compared to the outgoing fleet, significantly reducing emissions and operational costs on Western Australian routes.
According to the statement, the E190-E2’s quiet, spacious two-by-two cabin layout offers improved comfort for passengers, while its superior performance supports high-frequency, reliable service across challenging environments.
“Welcoming Virgin Australia as a new customer marks a proud milestone for our team as we deliver the first E2 to be operated by a major airline group in Australia and expand our presence in Oceania. The E190-E2 offers outstanding efficiency and reduced fuel burn, making it the ideal aircraft for Virgin Australia’s fleet modernisation program. Powered by Pratt & Whitney’s GTF engines, this modern aircraft supports Virgin Australia’s commitment to reliable, high-frequency service while enhancing overall operational performance,” says John Evans, CEO and Founder, Azorra.
“We are incredibly excited by the introduction of the Embraer 190-E2s to the Virgin Australia Regional Airlines fleet. Replacing our Fokker 100s with these next-generation jets allows us to better connect resources industry clients and regional communities across Western Australia with improved reliability, significantly reduced noise, and lower emissions. These aircraft are perfectly designed for the challenging climates and environments we operate in, while offering our customers a spacious and comfortable in-flight experience,” says Nick Rohrlach, Group Executive, Virgin Australia Regional Airlines.
“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,” says Arjan Meijer, President & CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation.
