Azorra has delivered the first new E-190E2 (MSN-19020185) twin-engine passenger aircraft to Virgin Australia, marking a new airline partnership for the lessor and the first airplane to be operated by a major carrier group in Australia.

The delivery of the E-Jet was marked by a handover ceremony yesterday at industry’s São José dos Campos facility, hosted by senior representatives from Azorra, Virgin Australia and Embraer. With 1,900 deliveries since 2004 the E-Jet is the third most delivered aircraft in history.

These new generation, small narrowbody aircraft will support Virgin Australia Regional Airlines’ fleet modernization efforts as it replaces its current fleet of Fokker 100s with the E2 variant. Delivered from Azorra’s firm orderbook with Embraer, another three aircraft will be delivered to Virgin Australia later this year and through 2026. The carrier has a total of eight firm orders for E2 aircraft.

The new 100-seat E-190E2 will deliver fuel savings compared to Virgin Australia’s current Fokker 100 fleet, lowering emissions and operating costs on key routes in Western Australia. Powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, the model offers a spacious two-by-two cabin.