Airlink, Southern Africa’s premium airline, has formally accepted the first three of ten new Embraer E195-E2 jetliners under a lease agreement with Fort Lauderdale-based asset management firm Azorra.

The agreement, finalised in August, will see Azorra provide the newly built aircraft to Johannesburg-headquartered Airlink, strengthening its all-Embraer fleet. Each E195-E2 seats up to 136 passengers in a two-by-two layout and offers extended range to open new routes while increasing capacity on high-density sectors such as Johannesburg-Cape Town.

Airlink CEO de Villiers Engelbrecht said: “The integration of the E195-E2s is a key milestone in our 33-year history. These aircraft provide operational and commercial flexibility while delivering cost savings through commonality with our existing E-Jets in flightdeck design, procedures and handling. This ensures a smooth entry into service.”

Azorra CEO John Evans added: “The delivery of these first three E195-E2s marks an exciting milestone in our partnership with Airlink. We are pleased to support their growth with advanced, fuel-efficient aircraft that enhance performance and passenger comfort.”

Embraer Commercial Aviation CEO Arjan Meijer said: “We are proud to support Airlink as it expands its network. The E195-E2 is the most efficient single-aisle jet in its class and perfectly fits Airlink’s ambitious plans.”

The aircraft are currently being ferried from Embraer’s São José dos Campos facilities to Johannesburg via Cape Town. They are scheduled to enter service in December ahead of the peak summer holiday season. Meanwhile, Airlink pilots, cabin crew and technical personnel are undergoing training and the airline’s maintenance facility is being equipped to support the state-of-the-art Pratt & Whitney PW1009G geared turbofan engines.