Airlink Inks Deal for 10 Embraer E195-E2 Jets

In a move reinforcing its regional expansion strategy, South Africa’s privately owned carrier Airlink has signed a firm order for 10 Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, marking a significant milestone in both Airlink’s fleet modernization and African aviation’s shift toward next-generation regional connectivity. The aircraft will be leased from Azorra.

Strategic Fleet Growth

Airlink’s acquisition of the E195-E2 jets, Embraer’s largest and most advanced regional aircraft, comes as the airline continues to cement its status as a leading player in Southern Africa. Known for its extensive network that includes underserved as well as major destinations across South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, Airlink is betting on fuel-efficient aircraft to drive sustainable growth. The new E195-E2s will supplement and eventually replace older-generation Embraer E190s, helping the airline cut fuel burn by up to 29% per seat, thanks to Pratt & Whitney’s geared turbofan engines and improved aerodynamics.

“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.

Airlink’s investment is a strong signal of confidence in the post-pandemic recovery of African air travel. While much of the continent’s aviation sector continues to grapple with infrastructure bottlenecks, regulatory hurdles, and currency pressures, Airlink is forging ahead with a strategy based on fleet efficiency, network agility, and regional partnerships.

The Embraer E195-E2 features cutting-edge fly-by-wire technology, increased range, and a quieter cabin, making it ideal for regional routes with challenging infrastructure. Each aircraft will be configured in a dual-class layout, offering 124-136 seats, optimizing comfort and flexibility for both business and leisure travellers. This move aligns with a broader trend across African aviation, where airlines are increasingly seeking right-sized aircraft to match market demand, rather than relying on older, less efficient jets or turboprops.

Industry analysts view this order as a pivotal moment in African aviation. With many regional airlines either grounded or struggling, Airlink is among the few that have leveraged the crisis to grow profitably, now operating more than 60 aircraft and serving over 45 destinations. The first E195-E2 is expected to be delivered late this year, with the last arriving in 2027. Airlink has not ruled out additional orders or lease options as it continues to evaluate demand trends across Southern and Central Africa.

With this landmark fleet update, Airlink positions itself not just as a regional airline but as a regional connector, bridging economies, communities, and markets across Africa with modern, sustainable, and comfortable air travel.

Embraer’s Growing Foothold in Africa

This deal also highlights Embraer’s rising presence in Africa, where its E-Jet family is gaining traction due to its ability to operate from short, rugged runways with limited ground support. The Brazilian manufacturer has consistently positioned the E2 series as the ideal aircraft for connecting secondary African cities without overcapacity. According to Martyn Holmes, CCO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, “Airlink’s continued trust in Embraer is a testament to how the E2 can unlock value in Africa’s fragmented but high-potential aviation landscape.”