Embraer announced today that it has received a firm order for 60 E175 jets from American Airlines, Inc. The contract also includes options for another 90 E175s, taking the total order potential up to 150 aircraft. The firm orders, which have a value of USD 2.5 billion at list price, will be included in Embraer’s 2013 fourth-quarter backlog.

“We are delighted with this remarkable order from American Airlines, one of the most respected and renowned airlines worldwide. American achieved impressive results with the ERJ 145 aircraft family, and we are sure that will continue with the E175, the most fuel efficient, cost effective, and passenger friendly 76 seater in the market today – which makes the E175 the clear choice of North American airlines, and proven with hundreds of orders this year,” said Paulo Cesar Silva, President & CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation. “Embraer is honored to provide the new American with the E175, and it is committed to supporting the development of the new airline, to which we wish great success.”

American Airlines will configure the E175s with 12 First Class, 20 Main Cabin Extra and 44 Main Cabin seats, with a total of 76 seats. The delivery of the first aircraft is scheduled for the first quarter of 2015.

“It’s been an exciting week for American Airlines,” said Kenji Hashimoto, American Airlines Senior Vice President – Regional Carriers. “Now that we’ve closed our merger with US Airways, we can deliver a top tier regional product that offers a First Class cabin, Main Cabin Extra and in-flight Wi-Fi – important elements of an improved flying experience for our customers. These new regional jets are also a big win for our employees at our wholly owned subsidiary, and will greatly improve economic efficiencies by lowering operating costs.”

During 2013, including this order from American Airlines, Embraer has received firm orders and options for more than 700 E-Jets from U.S. airlines for both current-generation and the E-Jets E2s.

As the leader in the 70 to 130-seat segment, Embraer continues to invest in the E-Jets family, which is flown by some 65 airlines from 45 countries. The Company has begun implementing a series of enhancements to the E175, including new wingtips, systems optimization, and aerodynamic refinements that will lower fuel burn by up to 5%. Longer maintenance intervals and component improvements will increase aircraft productivity and lower maintenance costs.