Most Will Be Flown By Switzerland's Flybaboo SA

Representatives with Embraer told ANN Tuesday the Brazilian planemaker signed a contract with M1 Travel Ltd. for five Embraer 190 E-Jets, with options for five more of either the same model or the larger Embraer 195, depending on market demands.

M1 Travel Ltd is a subsidiary of M1 Group, and one of the largest shareholders of Geneva-based Flybaboo SA. The first three E-190s, with deliveries starting in 2008, will be leased by M1 to Flybaboo. The total value of the deal, if all options are exercised, could reach US$ 355 million, at list prices.

The aircraft will be equipped with leather seats, and M1 also has the option to fit them with in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems. The company has also selected the Steep Approach option, that will enable the carrier to operate out of London City Airport.

The option will also allow operation out of Switzerland's Sion Airport, as well as Lugano, Switzerland, and Florence, Italy -- all airports that require special performance capabilities, to comply with area noise or terrain restrictions.

"M1 Travel's decision to select the Embraer 190 as its new-generation jet and backbone of the company's growth strategy in Europe makes us especially proud," said Frederico Fleury Curado, Embraer Executive Vice-President, Airline Market. "The Embraer 190 will help the airline move to new heights with its unparalleled combination of right capacity, cabin comfort, effective performance, and superior economics. Flybaboo has experienced remarkable development since its foundation and we look forward to seeing our Embraer E-Jets playing a significant role in their future."

"One of the reasons behind Flybaboo's success is the strong commitment we have to our clients," said Julian Cook, Founder and Managing Director of Flybaboo. "I often say that we don't have passengers, we have clients. And we pay great attention to the service we are providing them. Comfort is one of our constant concerns and I'm truly convinced that, with the Embraer 190, we will be offering the highest quality of comfort and service to our clients."

All of the Embraer 190s leased to Flybaboo SA will support the airline's current development, as well as help it reach new destinations and better serve its market.

FMI: www.embraer.com, www.flybaboo.com