August 13, 2024 – Virgin Australia has announced a significant step in its fleet renewal strategy, placing a firm order with Embraer for eight E190-E2 aircraft. The new aircraft, known for its fuel efficiency, low noise emissions, and enhanced passenger comfort, are set to replace Virgin Australia’s aging Fokker fleet. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in the second half of 2025, with the aircraft set to be based in Perth, Western Australia.
The E190-E2, widely recognized as the world’s most fuel-efficient single-aisle aircraft, will play a crucial role in Virgin Australia’s regional operations. The aircraft will be operated by Virgin Australia Regional Airlines (VARA), primarily servicing charter flights across the Western Australian market. The E190-E2 boasts a range of approximately six hours and is powered by Pratt & Whitney’s PW1900G engines, offering a 30% reduction in emissions compared to the outgoing F100.
Jayne Hrdlicka, Virgin Australia Group CEO, highlighted the significance of this acquisition: “When the new E190-E2 enters service from October 2025, it will become the first new aircraft in the WA charter market this century. The E190-E2 is the most fuel-efficient aircraft in its segment and will reduce emissions by about 30% compared to the outgoing F100. These aircraft also feature significantly lower noise profiles and enhanced passenger comfort.”
The announcement was made at a special event attended by the Deputy Premier of Western Australia and Treasurer, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Tourism, the Hon. Rita Saffioti. Hrdlicka emphasized the importance of this investment for both Virgin Australia and the WA market, stating, “This is a huge vote of confidence by the Virgin Australia Group in our charter business and the WA market.”
Martyn Holmes, Chief Commercial Officer of Embraer Commercial Aviation, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, “The E2 is a game changer. We are excited to welcome Virgin Australia to the Embraer family and look forward to seeing our best-in-class E2 – renowned for comfort, quietness, and low emissions – take the Airline to even greater heights.”
The E190-E2 is part of Embraer’s E2 family, which builds on the success of the first-generation E-Jets that have been operational for 20 years. The E190-E2’s advanced aerodynamics, innovative wing design, and new technologies contribute to significant improvements in fuel efficiency and carbon emissions. The aircraft is certified to fly with blends of up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with successful test flights demonstrating its operability with 100% SAF.
Embraer’s commitment to sustainability aligns with the aviation industry’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. The company aims to be carbon neutral by 2040 and has set ambitious targets, including 25% SAF use by 2040 and 100% renewable energy sources by 2030.
Since Embraer’s first Bandeirante aircraft took to Australian skies in 1978, the company has solidified its presence in the region, with close to 50 aircraft currently operating in Australia, making it one of the largest E-Jets fleets in the Asia-Pacific region.
