Airlink picks E195-E2 in major fleet upgrade at Paris Air Show

June 18, 2025 in Companies, Travel & Tourism by Editor

Southern Africa’s largest independent carrier bets on efficiency and reach with order for 10 next-gen Embraers

Airlink, Southern Africa’s most expansive private airline, has selected the Embraer E195-E2 for the next phase of its fleet renewal and expansion, signing a lease agreement for 10 of the next-generation jets with Azorra, a U.S.-based aircraft lessor. The announcement was made on June 18 at the 2025 Paris Air Show, signaling growing African airline confidence in modern, efficient narrowbodies as competition heats up across regional skies.

The E195-E2, which Embraer promotes as “the world’s most efficient single-aisle jet,” is expected to deliver up to 29pc lower fuel burn compared to older E195 models, a critical metric as African carriers navigate both operating cost pressures and increasing sustainability demands.

For Airlink, whose 45-destination network spans 15 countries, including remote and underserved routes like St Helena Island and Madagascar, the move underscores a dual intent to optimise current high-density services and unlock new sub-Saharan Africa markets.

“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,” said de Villiers Engelbrecht, CEO of Airlink.

With seating configurations of 124 and 136 passengers, the new jets—powered by Pratt & Whitney’s GTF engines—will have 33pc more seats than Airlink’s existing E190s, lowering unit costs per seat and allowing the airline to scale up frequency or capacity based on demand.

Airlink has flown Embraer aircraft since 2001, making the move to the E2 a logical step. Operational commonality between existing E-Jets and the new E2s—especially in flightdeck design, handling, and training—means a smoother transition and reduced integration costs.

“This decision marks a significant milestone in our relationship with Airlink,” said John Evans, CEO of Azorra. “The E195-E2 offers the perfect combination of increased capacity, efficiency, and flexibility.”

Deliveries from Embraer’s Brazil production line are expected to begin later this year and continue through 2027, aligning with Airlink’s long-term fleet modernisation roadmap.

The deal also marks a strategic win for Embraer, which has steadily grown its African footprint as regional airlines seek nimble, right-sized aircraft to improve route economics. The E2, already in service with multiple global operators, is gaining traction in Africa, where markets are underserved and demand is growing for point-to-point connectivity without the costs of widebodies.

“This latest development highlights Embraer’s growing presence in Africa,” said Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation. “It’s a great vote of confidence that Airlink—one of the continent’s most successful airlines—intends to join the E2 family.”

Embraer’s strategy hinges on matching aircraft capability with market reality in Africa – thinner routes, lower passenger volumes, and rising operating costs. The E195-E2, with its balanced range, fuel economy, and smaller airport compatibility, meets that sweet spot.

From an African aviation perspective, Airlink’s announcement at Le Bourget sends a strong signal that the continent’s private airlines are maturing—not just in scale, but in strategic fleet planning. With fuel costs volatile and sustainability becoming an investment precondition, right-sizing and efficiency are now business imperatives, not optional upgrades.

For smaller African carriers or state-owned operators, the deal may also underscore the competitive threat Airlink represents. With its lean model, growing frequencies, and fleet of 78 aircraft by the end of 2027, Airlink is positioning itself as a credible regional connector, bridging secondary markets that large carriers often bypass.