Virgin Australia: Country's First Embraer E190-E2 Operator

Photo: Azorra 

FORT LAUDERDALE — Azzora delivered a new Embraer E190-E2 aircraft to Virgin Australia (VA), making the airlinethe first E2 jet operator in Australia.

The handover ceremony was held in Embraer’s São José dos Campos facility in the presence of senior representatives from Azorra, Virgin Australia, and Embraer.

“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,” said Nick Rohrlach, Group Executive at Virgin Australia Regional Airlines.

E2 jet Supporting Fleet Modernisation

Twin-engine narrowbody aircraft will support Virgin Atlantic's regional fleet update, aiming to replace older Fokker 100 aircraft on key routes in Western Australia.

The new Embraer E190-E2 aircraft offers 30% lower fuel burn, lower emissions, and operating costs compared to the Fokker 100. The spacious cabin, featuring a 2-2 layout, ensures a smooth and comfortable experience for passengers. 

Thanks to Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, E2 jets offer greater efficiency and range, optimized performance, and reduced noise pollution. 

Since 2004, when the E-Jet program debuted, nearly 1,900 jets of the first and second E-Jet generation have been delivered to customers, making the E-Jet the third most delivered aircraft in history.

Virgin Australia has a total order of 8 new E190-E2 jets. Three aircraft are scheduled to be delivered to the airline between 2025 and 2026. 

“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,” commented Arjan Meijer, President & CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation.

New Partnership for Azzora

Azzora manages over 150 aircraft and engines. Brand-new Airbus A220 Family and Embraer E2-Jet Family aircraft in the order book will increase lessors' fleet to 280 aircraft.

Delivery of a brand-new Embraer jet marks the start of a partnership with Virgin Australia and the lessor’s expansion in Oceania.  

“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,” said John Evans, CEO and founder, Azorra.