Aviation News –
Azorra has delivered Australia’s first Embraer E190-E2 to Virgin Australia, marking the start of a new partnership and the introduction of the modern jet to the airline’s fleet.
The handover took place on 2 September 2025 at Embraer’s São José dos Campos facility in Brazil, attended by senior leaders from Azorra, Virgin Australia, and Embraer. The aircraft is the first of eight on firm order and represents a key step in Virgin Australia Regional Airlines’ fleet renewal program, replacing older Fokker 100s with more efficient models.
The E190-E2, powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, offers up to 30% lower fuel consumption compared with Virgin Australia’s current fleet. With a 100-seat configuration, the aircraft provides extended range, quieter operation, and a spacious two-by-two cabin designed to improve passenger comfort on regional routes.
“Welcoming Virgin Australia as a new customer marks a proud milestone for our team as we deliver the first E2 to be operated by a major airline group in Australia,” said John Evans, CEO and founder of Azorra. “The E190-E2 offers outstanding efficiency and reduced fuel burn, making it the ideal aircraft for Virgin Australia’s fleet modernization program.”
Virgin Australia will receive three more E190-E2 aircraft later this year and into 2026, as it phases out its aging regional fleet. The airline expects the new jets to cut emissions, lower operating costs, and strengthen its ability to provide reliable service on key routes in Western Australia.
The delivery underscores Embraer’s growing global footprint, with its E-Jet family now surpassing 1,900 deliveries since 2004, making it the third most delivered aircraft program in aviation history. For Virgin Australia, the move highlights a broader push to modernize and improve sustainability across its operations.
Photo Embraer
