Airlink To Add 10 Embraer E195-E2 Jets to Its Fleet

Airlink, the premier full-service airline in Southern Africa, intends to lease 10 new Embraer E195-E2 twin-engine passenger aircraft from Azorra, a lease, finance, and asset management firm based in Fort Lauderdale.

Under the terms of an upcoming agreement, Airlink plans to expand its existing fleet of 68 aircraft by incorporating the new E2 models. Deliveries from Embraer's facilities in Brazil are anticipated to commence later this year and continue through 2027. Airlink has been utilising Embraer aircraft since 2001.

Airlink's new 136 and 124-seat aircraft are set to achieve up to 29% fuel savings compared to the older E195 models. This advancement will boost Airlink's economic efficiency and cut emissions across its network, which spans 45 destinations in 15 countries, including St Helena Island and Madagascar.

The integration of Pratt & Whitney GTF-powered E2 aircraft, which offer approximately 33% more seating capacity compared to Airlink's existing E190s, will allow the airline to reduce unit costs on high-demand routes. Additionally, the extended range of these aircraft will enable Airlink to broaden its network, delivering its efficient, reliable, and comfortable service to new destinations across sub-Saharan Africa.

Airlink will achieve further savings due to the extensive commonality in operations, maintenance, training, and equipment between its current E-Jets and the new E2 models. This includes similarities in flight decks, operating procedures, and handling, facilitating a seamless entry into service.

Airlink CEO, de Villiers Engelbrecht, stated: “The E195-E2 will bolster our business, helping us to be even more competitive on key routes and in doing so, continue providing the great value offering our customers are accustomed to.”

John Evans, CEO at Azorra, says: “This decision marks a significant milestone in our relationship with Airlink. The E195-E2 offers the perfect combination of increased capacity, efficiency and flexibility, helping Airlink expand its network while maintaining the high-frequency service its passengers value. We are proud to partner with Embraer and Pratt & Whitney to introduce this new generation aircraft to Airlink.”

Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, says: “The E2 continues to prove its value for airlines worldwide, and this latest development highlights Embraer’s growing presence in Africa. It’s a great vote of confidence in Embraer and the E2, that Airlink, one of the continent’s most successful airlines, and a long-time Embraer operator, intends to join the E2 family. We thank Azorra for its support in enabling what will be an important fleet expansion.”