Bridges Air Cargo to be first operator of Embraer E-freighter

Embraer announced with lessor, Regional One, that Bridges Air Cargo will be the launch customer of the new passenger-to-freight, E-Freighter E190F conversion. This jet, the first of two conversions, is expected to start operating in Bridges’ fleet in Q3/2025. Bridges Air Cargo is part of Bridges Worldwide, a leading provider of solutions to the international logistics, courier and express community. The company partners with leading global logistics providers, including FedEx, DHL, and UPS, to support their time-critical and high-performance network requirements.

Guy Bridges, Managing Director of Bridges Air Cargo, commented: “It’s fitting that Bridges becomes the launch customer for the E-Freighter as we celebrate 35 years of operations and over a billion kilograms moved for the express market. The aircraft’s size fills a unique and under-served space in the cargo segment. It strengthens our operational capability and paves the way for the development of promising new routes. We are excited to partner with Embraer and Regional One on what we see as a pivotal advancement for regional air cargo.”

Regional One’s President, Hank Gibson stated: “As the first E190 P2F conversion, this milestone underscores Regional One’s dedication to innovation in the regional aviation market.. Together with Embraer and our valued partners, we are setting a new benchmark for regional cargo transport - transforming one of the world’s most efficient regional jets into the next-generation freighter. Today, we’re delighted to welcome Bridges Air Cargo as our newest partner in this transformative journey, reinforcing our shared vision for the future of regional logistics.”

Arjan Meijer, President and CEO Embraer Commercial Aviation said: “We are excited to announce Bridges Air Cargo as the launch customer for the E190F so soon after achieving triple certification for the aircraft with FAA, EASA and ANAC. We look forward to supporting a smooth entry into service for the first E-Freighter, and wish Bridges every success.”

E190F was launched to meet the changing demands of e-commerce and modern trade, which require fast deliveries and decentralized operations, driving the demand for faster delivery of shipments to secondary and tertiary markets. The jet was developed to fill a gap in the air cargo market and to replace older less efficient models.   

E-Jets converted to freighters will have over 40% more volume capacity, three times the range of large cargo turboprops, and up to 30% lower operating costs than larger narrowbodies. If combining capacity under the floor and main deck, the maximum structural payload is 13,500 kg.