BA Ordered E-Jets For Modernization If The BA CityFlyer Fleet

Embraer delivered the first Embraer 170 jet Thursday at its headquarters in São José dos Campos, Brazil, to British Airways. The aircraft, configured with 76 seats in a single-class layout, will be operated by BA CityFlyer, British Airways’ regional subsidiary, which operates  international and domestic routes from London City Airport.

The deal was announced in December 2008, and includes firm orders for six Embraer 170 and five Embraer 190 jets, plus options for another three  airplanes of the same model.

“This first delivery to British Airways is a remarkable milestone that makes us particularly proud, since it’s the last of the four largest European airlines to operate the E-Jets,” said Mauro Kern, Embraer Executive Vice President, Airline Market. “We are absolutely delighted to see our E-Jets flying in the colors of such an internationally renowned, world-class airline, operating out of the U.K.’s premier business airport.” The Embraer 170 obtained steep approach certification to operate at London City Airport in June 2007. The steep approach uses a software solution developed within the
existing fly-by-wire system, which means improved flight quality and control, as well as reduced pilot workload, less weight, and lower maintenance costs.

“We are very excited to receive our first E-Jet as the backbone of the modernization of our fleet,” said Peter Simpson, Managing Director of BA  CityFlyer. “The Embraer 170 will enter service very soon, with the Embraer 190 arriving early next year. We look forward to offering our customers unrivalled levels of comfort in a brand-new, greener aircraft fleet where, for the first time, with no middle seat, all passengers will have the choice of an aisle or window placement.”

Embraer 170

On June 30, 2009, Embraer had logged 882 firm orders and 794 options for the E-Jets family. With nearly 600 aircraft delivered to date, the family has a broad base of 53 operators in 35 countries, on five continents.

FMI: www.embraer.com