Virgin Australia Replacing Fokker Fleet

Embraer announced it has received a firm order for eight of its E190-E2 small narrowbody aircraft from Virgin Australia.

The E190-E2 fleet will be based in Perth, Western Australia, and operated by Virgin Australia Regional Airlines (VARA). Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the second half of 2025 with the aircraft entering service in October. The E190-E2s will join VARA’s larger narrowbody aircraft as the airline renews its fleet and replaces the long-serving Fokker fleet. The new aircraft will primarily be used for charter flights as VARA seeks to dominate the charter market in Western Australia.

Jayne Hrdlicka, Virgin Australia Group CEO said, “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 per cent compared to the outgoing F100. These aircraft also feature significantly lower noise profiles and enhanced passenger comfort.”

“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,” said Martyn Holmes, Chief Commercial Officer, Embraer Commercial Aviation.

The E190-E2 has been certified to fly with fuel blends of up to 50% SAF, and in test flights the Pratt & Whitney PW1900G engine has demonstrated it can operate on 100% SAF.

FMI:  embraer.com/global/en/