Embraer secures firm order for E195-E2 aircraft from KLM

Aircraft manufacturer Embraer has secured a firm order for 21 E195-E2 aircraft from regional airline subsidiary KLM Cityhopper.

The order includes 14 purchase rights and is valued at $2.48bn.

A letter of intent was announced by KLM at this year’s Paris Air Show for up to 15 aircraft and 20 purchase rights.

Embraer Commercial Aviation president and CEO John Slattery said: “KLM’s decision to add a further six aircraft to this order is a significant vote of confidence in our E2 programme.

“Delivering 30% lower emissions when compared to KLM’s current E190s, yet still providing a further 32 seats, the E195-E2 will simultaneously increase capacity for KLM at slot constrained Schiphol Airport while also delivering huge reductions in emissions.”

KLM will acquire 21 firm orders through operating lease Embraer lessor partners Aircastle and ICBC Aviation Leasing.

Aircastle and ICBC Aviation Leasing will each provide 11 and ten E195-E2s, respectively, to KLM.

The 132-seater aircraft are expected to be delivered from the first quarter of 2021.

KLM president and CEO Pieter Elbers said: “For KLM, this aircraft is a significant part of our commitment to improving our environmental impact. Not only is the E195-E2 the most fuel-efficient lowest emission aircraft in its class, but it is also the quietest by a considerable margin – a huge benefit for both our communities and our passengers.”

Earlier this year, Embraer signed a $1.4bn purchase agreement with global fractional private jet travel company Flexjet. Embraer will deliver fleets of Phenom 300 light and Praetor mid-sized and super-midsized aircraft.