Embraer has launched its latest commercial jet, E195-E2, from its E2-Jets range at the company’s facilities in São José dos Campos, Brazil.

Designed to serve the single aisle jet market, the new E195-E2 aircraft is expected to enter service by the first half of 2019.

Scheduled to make its first flight within the next few months, the aircraft features three more rows of seats than the current generation E195 jets. It can also be configured with 120 seats in two classes of service, or up to 146 in a single class.

Developed as part of Embraer’s $1.7bn E2 programme, the E195-E2 features a dedicated wing and helps increase fuel efficiency.

Embraer Commercial Aviation COO Luís Affonso said: “We introduced in the proven E-Jets platform all new technologies that would add value to customers. One example is the fourth generation of fly-by-wire, which allowed a 20% reduction of the empennage area, minimising drag and weight.

"The aeroplane will save up to 24% in fuel and 20% in maintenance costs per seat compared with the current E195."

“The airplane will save up to 24% in fuel and 20% in maintenance costs a seat, when compared to the current E195.

“A portion of these savings will be achieved with the new engine technology, but the greatest competitive advantage of the E195-E2 lies in the optimisation of its structure and of its various systems.”

The company is planning to use two aircraft prototype for the E195-E2 certification campaign.

Since its launch in 2013, Embraer’s E2 programme has received 690 commitments, which include 275 firm orders, and 415 options and purchase rights.

Image: Embraer’s new E195-E2 jet. Photo: courtesy of Embraer SA.