Airlines KLM firms up order for 21 E195-E2 jets

The deal includes 21 firm E195-E2 aircraft plus 14 purchase rights. Embraer has released, that the firm positions will be acquired via operating lease from Embraer partners Aircastle and ICBC Aviation Leasing.

On Paris Air Show earlier this year, KLM announced it had signed a Letter of Intent to purchase 15 firm and 20 additional aircraft. When all purchase rights are being exercised, the deal would be valued at approximately US$2.48 billion.

Aircastle will provide KLM with 11 and ICBC Aviation Leasing with 10 E195-E2. With this new aircraft, the carrier seeks to modernize its medium-haul fleet. Especially routes in Europe will be served. Deliveries will begin in the first quarter of 2021.

John Slattery, President and CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation commented: “KLM’s decision to add a further six aircraft to this order is a significant vote of confidence in our E2 programme [...] Delivering 30% lower emissions when compared to KLM’s current E190s, yet still providing a further 32 seats, the E195-E2 will simultaneously increase capacity for KLM at slot constrained Schiphol Airport, while also delivering huge reductions in emissions.”

KLM President & CEO Pieter Elbers, said, “For KLM this aircraft is a significant part of our commitment to improving our environmental impact. Not only is the E195-E2 the most fuel efficient lowest emission aircraft in its class, it is also the quietest by a considerable margin – a huge benefit for both our communities and our passengers.“

The E195-E2 aircraft will be configured in a two-class variant. Overall, the new state-of-the-art E2 family from Embraer is known for being very fuel efficient with a good operational performance. The Brazilian manufacturer has incorporated new aerodynamical advantages and new engines into the aircraft.

KLM is the flag-carrier of the Netherlands and was founded in 1919 and currently operates with a fleet of 121 aircraft, including 13 Airbus A330s, 51 Boeing 737s, 13 747s, 29 777s and 15 787s. Subsidiary carrier KLM Cityhopper flies with 17 Embraer ERJ-175s and 32 ERJ-190s