Airlink takes delivery of first three Embraer E195-E2s under Azorra lease

October 2, 2025 in Business, Companies, Trade & Industry by Editor

Southern Africa’s premium regional carrier, Airlink, has taken delivery of the first three Embraer E195-E2 jetliners under a lease agreement with U.S.-based aircraft lessor Azorra, marking a significant expansion milestone for the 33-year-old airline.

The delivery, completed at Embraer’s headquarters in São José dos Campos, Brazil, on October 1, is part of a 10-aircraft deal finalised in August. The Johannesburg-headquartered carrier, which already operates an all-Embraer fleet, is now preparing to integrate the new-generation aircraft into its network.

Configured with 136 seats in a two-by-two cabin layout, the E195-E2s will provide Airlink with both increased capacity on high-demand routes — such as Johannesburg–Cape Town — and the range to explore new point-to-point connections across sub-Saharan Africa. The airline expects the first of the aircraft to enter service in December, just ahead of the peak southern summer travel season.

Airlink CEO De Villiers Engelbrecht described the addition as a “new trajectory” for the carrier:

“The integration of the E195-E2s into Airlink’s fleet is an important milestone in the company’s history. Beyond the operational and commercial flexibility they offer, these aircraft will unlock efficiencies and cost savings thanks to their commonality with our existing E-Jets.”

The new aircraft feature Pratt & Whitney’s ultra-quiet and fuel-efficient PW1900G geared turbofan engines, which are expected to reduce operating costs while enhancing passenger comfort. Airlink is currently working with the South African Civil Aviation Authority to secure type certification, while pilots, cabin crew, and engineering teams undergo training to ensure a smooth entry into service.

Azorra’s Chief Executive, John Evans, welcomed the milestone, saying the partnership with Airlink “underscores the E195-E2’s ability to support regional growth with advanced, fuel-efficient aircraft.” He added that the lessor looks forward to supporting the airline as it deploys the E2 across Southern Africa.

Embraer’s Commercial Aviation President and CEO, Arjan Meijer, described the E195-E2 as “the most efficient single-aisle jet in its class, making it the perfect fit for Airlink’s ambitious growth plans. We are proud to see our partnership with Airlink deepen as it continues to expand its footprint across the continent.”

The three aircraft are currently being ferried to Johannesburg via Cape Town. Once operational, the E195-E2s are expected to strengthen Airlink’s competitive position in Southern Africa’s increasingly dynamic regional aviation market.