South African regional carrier Airlink, a long-time Embraer operator, has committed to 10 Embraer E195-E2s becoming the newest operator of the type.
The aircraft will be financed via leasing specialist Azorra and will add to the existing fleet of 68 aircraft.
Choosing the E195 E2 was a natural choice for Airlink given the maintenance and operating similarities there are with the first generation e-Jets that they operate.
The aircraft will be configured with 136 and 124 seats suggesting some of the 10 could be in a single-class configuration while others have a business class offering.
Arjan Meijer, President and CEO Embraer Commercial Aviation, said: “The E2 continues to prove its value for airlines worldwide and this latest development highlights Embraer’s growing presence in Africa. It’s a great vote of confidence in Embraer and the E2, that Airlink, one of the continent’s most successful airlines, and a long time Embraer operator, intends joining the E2 family. We thank Azorra for its support in enabling what will be an important fleet expansion.”
Airlink CEO, de Villiers Engelbrecht, added: “The E195-E2 will bolster our business, helping us to be even more competitive on key routes and in doing so, continue providing the great value offering our customers are accustomed to.”
Azorra already has a relationship with Airlink which made them well-placed to provide the aircraft for the South African carrier.
John Evans, CEO at Azorra, says: “This decision marks a significant milestone in our relationship with Airlink. The E195-E2 offers the perfect combination of increased capacity, efficiency and flexibility, helping Airlink expand its network while maintaining the high-frequency service its passengers value. We are proud to partner with Embraer and Pratt & Whitney to introduce this new generation aircraft to Airlink.”
