Azorra delivers Australia’s first Embraer E190-E2 to Virgin Australia

Azorra 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. 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 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.

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.

John Evans, CEO and founder, Azorra, commented: “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 modernization 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.”

Nick Rohrlach, Group Executive, Virgin Australia Regional Airlines, stated: “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.”

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.”