Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer said Friday that aircraft leasing company Azorra has placed a firm order for 15 additional E195-E2 jets, with purchase rights for another 15 aircraft, pushing total orders for the E2 programme beyond the 500-aircraft milestone.

The agreement increases Florida-based Azorra's firm orders for Embraer's E2 family from 39 to 54 aircraft and marks the third expansion of the lessor's original order, which was first announced in December 2021.

Embraer said the latest transaction reflects continued demand among airlines for smaller narrowbody aircraft that offer lower fuel consumption and greater operational flexibility. The manufacturer will include the order in its second-quarter 2026 backlog and financial results.

The deal comes as the E2 programme continues to gain traction in the global aviation market. According to Embraer, more than 200 E2 aircraft are currently in service with 24 airline customers worldwide.

"Our continued investment in Embraer's E2 family reflects the strong demand we are seeing from airlines around the world for right-sized, fuel-efficient aircraft," Azorra Chief Executive Officer John Evans said in a statement.

He said the aircraft provides operational and economic advantages for airlines seeking to open new routes, modernise fleets and improve passenger experience.

Embraer Commercial Aviation President and Chief Executive Officer Arjan Meijer described the order as a significant endorsement of the E2 family's performance and economics.

"Surpassing 500 E2 orders is a proud moment for Embraer and reflects the growing momentum behind right-sized, fuel-efficient aircraft," Meijer said.

The E195-E2 is the largest aircraft in Embraer's commercial jet portfolio and is designed to carry up to 150 passengers. The manufacturer says the aircraft offers lower fuel burn, reduced emissions, and quieter operations compared with previous-generation models.

For passengers, the aircraft features a two-by-two seating configuration, eliminating middle seats and providing a more spacious cabin environment. Airlines, meanwhile, can use the jet to serve routes where larger narrowbody aircraft may not be economically viable.

Industry analysts have noted that rising fuel costs, environmental pressures, and evolving passenger demand are encouraging airlines to seek aircraft that can efficiently serve medium-density routes while reducing operating expenses.

Founded in 1969, Embraer has delivered more than 9,000 aircraft globally and remains one of the world's leading manufacturers of commercial jets with fewer than 150 seats. The company operates across commercial aviation, executive aviation, defence and security sectors.

Azorra, headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, provides leasing, financing, and asset management services to airlines and investors worldwide. The company said its portfolio currently includes 338 aviation assets, including aircraft, engines, and airframes.

The latest order is expected to support Embraer's growing order backlog and further strengthen its position in the regional and small narrowbody aircraft market as airlines continue to renew fleets and expand networks in the coming years.

Source: Embraer PR