16 Will Operate Under a Multi-Year Delta Contract, Replacing Aging Aircraft

On June 18, Embraer and SkyWest announced a deal for 60 new E175 regional jets with the option to purchase 50 more. The first 16 aircraft in the set will operate under a running contract with Delta Air Lines, moving into service as early as 2027.

“We’re pleased to strengthen our Delta partnership and to continue to grow our E175 fleet,” commented Chip Childs, President and CEO of SkyWest. “This aircraft order enables us to advance our long-term fleet strategy, enhance our dual-class footprint, and continue to lead the industry in delivering an exceptional product for Delta and each of our flying partners.”

16 of the jets are scheduled for delivery beginning in 2027 and will replace 11 Bombardier CRJ900s and 5 CRJ700s currently flown for Delta. They will be owned by SkyWest, but operated under the Delta Connection banner. The E175s will be configured with 76 seats, offering passengers a more spacious, dual-class cabin compared to the CRJ700 and CRJ900 aircraft they are replacing.

In addition to this confirmed order, SkyWest has secured firm delivery positions for 44 more E175 aircraft from Embraer, with expected delivery dates spanning 2028 through 2032. These aircraft are not yet tied to any flying agreement, but are intended for future contract opportunities with major carriers. SkyWest also obtained purchase rights for 50 additional E175s, giving flexibility to scale operations as needed over the next decade.

SkyWest already operates the world’s largest fleet of E175s, with more than 240 in service. The aircraft has become an increasingly popular choice for regional operations in North America, developing into an even more efficient and capable jet over time.

The list price of the 60-aircraft commitment is approximately $3.6 billion… though the actual purchase cost is expected to be lower due to typical bulk order discounts.

FMI: www.skywest.com