Finnair has chosen the Embraer E195-E2 to replace its first-generation Embraer E190s, marking a key step in the modernization of its regional fleet. The Finnish airline has signed an agreement for up to 46 aircraft, including an engine services contract with Pratt & Whitney, against a background of pressure on GTF engine availability.
A strategic order for the regional fleet
The firm order is for 18 E195-E2s, with 16 options and 12 purchase rights, giving a total potential of 46 aircraft. These aircraft, configured for 134 seats, will gradually replace the E190s currently operated by Nordic Regional Airlines (Norra), Finnair's subsidiary and regional partner. First deliveries are scheduled for the third quarter of 2027, with a cadence of three aircraft that year, followed by six in 2028 and six in 2029. The upgrade is designed to improve efficiency and environmental performance on intra-Finnish, Nordic and European routes.
The 12 Embraer 190s currently in service, introduced in 2006, have recently benefited from a cabin refurbishment to harmonize the passenger experience. These aircraft are mainly used for flights with an average duration of 1h35, linking Helsinki to various Nordic, Finnish and European destinations such as Hamburg or Brussels. The arrival of the E195-E2s will boost capacity on certain routes, reinforcing the Embraers' essential role in Finnair's short-haul network.
Choosing between Airbus and GTF engine management
In opting for the E195-E2, Finnair is temporarily ruling out the option of expanding its fleet with aircraft from the Airbus A320 family, already well represented on its main network. The company is also considering the acquisition of used Airbus A320/A321s to renew part of its medium-haul fleet.
The agreement with Pratt & Whitney for the PW1900G engines powering the E2 family includes a long-term contract for the purchase of spare parts and maintenance services. This is crucial, given the reliability difficulties and massive inspection campaigns affecting Pratt & Whitney's GTF engine family. Finnair is thus seeking to secure the long-term availability of its future E195-E2s.
For Embraer, this order strengthens the E195-E2's position in the European regional jet market, already well established with customers such as KLM Cityhopper and Porter Airlines. The Brazilian company is highlighting the fuel consumption gains and emissions reductions (20 to 25% per seat) compared with the previous generation of E-Jets, as well as a significant reduction in noise, which are essential arguments in European hubs subject to growing environmental constraints.
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