Colombian Airline Moves Ahead With Fleet Renewal

Aero Republica, subsidiary of Copa Holdings, S.A. announced this week the delivery of its eighth Embraer 190 Aircraft directly from the manufacturer. The airline currently operates a fleet of 13 aircraft, consisting of five MD-80 aircraft and eight Embraer 190s.

The new aircraft is part of the Aero Republica's fleet modernization and renewal program, which began in 2006 and aims to replace MD-80 aircraft with modern and efficient Embraer 190s. The Embraer 190, with a 106-seat single class configuration, has two seats on each side of the aisle and no middle seat. This modern aircraft incorporates advanced technological features such as winglets, efficient and powerful GE CF34 motors and the latest Honeywell Corporation aeronautics equipment.

"Fleet renewal has been one of Aero Republica's top priorities and the benefits of this transition are more than evident," said Roberto Junguito, CEO of Aero Republica. "Today our fleet is the most modern in Colombia, clearly defining our commitment to provide our passengers safe, comfortable, and dependable service. Additionally, we have become leaders in on-time performance in Colombia's domestic and international markets."

The Embraer 190s will be utilized to serve Aero Republica's domestic and international routes more efficiently. They also will play an important role in Aero Republica's alliance with Copa Airlines in Panama, through the joint expansion of route networks that will provide passengers more destinations and frequencies.

FMI: www.copaair.com/