Airlink Welcomes Third Embraer E195-E2, Sets Record for Longest E2 Flight

Embraer has delivered ZS-LKA, the third E195-E2 aircraft to South African carrier Airlink. The aircraft recently completed a 3,996-nautical-mile (7,400 km) non-stop flight from São José dos Campos, Brazil, to Johannesburg, South Africa — marking the longest E2 flight since the family entered service in 2018.

During this milestone journey, the E195-E2 demonstrated its exceptional efficiency, consuming less than 1,350 kg of fuel per hour, reinforcing the E2 family’s reputation as the world’s most efficient small narrowbody aircraft. This combination of range, performance, and fuel economy highlights the aircraft’s suitability for both regional and longer non-stop routes.

The new aircraft will play a crucial role in Airlink’s growth strategy, enabling expanded connectivity across Southern Africa and modernizing the carrier’s fleet. By integrating the E195-E2, Airlink is not only improving operational efficiency but also enhancing passenger comfort and reducing environmental impact, staying in line with global aviation sustainability trends.

This delivery reflects both Embraer’s engineering excellence and Airlink’s commitment to innovation and regional air travel development, providing a high-performance platform capable of supporting the airline’s ambitions for years to come.