Airlink and Azorra Seal Deal for 10 New Embraer E195-E2 Jets
South Africa’s leading regional carrier, Airlink, has finalised a lease agreement with Azorra for 10 brand-new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, in a strategic move set to enhance its fleet and expand its route network across sub-Saharan Africa.
The agreement, first announced earlier this year, will see deliveries begin later in 2025 and conclude by 2027. The aircraft will be supplied by Azorra, a Florida-based aircraft lessor and asset management firm. The E195-E2s, configured in a 136-seat, two-by-two layout, will bolster Airlink’s current fleet of 68 aircraft and support its growth strategy on high-density routes.
Airlink has been operating Embraer aircraft since 2001 and will benefit from significant operational efficiencies thanks to the commonality between its existing E-Jet models and the new E2s. These include shared flightdecks, maintenance systems and pilot training protocols, ensuring a smooth entry into service.
Airlink CEO, de Villiers Engelbrecht, described the moment as both “exciting and daunting”, noting: “It heralds the next phase of Airlink’s development and growth as the leading regional airline in Southern Africa and now possibly beyond. There is a lot to do before the first aircraft enters service, hopefully in December, but I have no doubt the Airlink team will deliver.”
Azorra CEO John Evans said the agreement reinforces a shared vision of sustainable growth and improved connectivity: “We’re proud to work alongside Embraer and Pratt & Whitney to bring next-generation aircraft to Airlink, supporting enhanced connectivity across Africa.”
Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, added: “We are proud to deepen our long-standing partnership with Airlink. The E195-E2 is the most efficient single-aisle jet in its class and ideally suited to support Airlink’s ambitious expansion plans.”
The addition of the E195-E2 jets will offer greater fuel efficiency, lower carbon emissions, and expanded range capabilities, enabling Airlink to explore new markets and deliver improved service to passengers across the continent.
