Azorra has struck a deal with JetBlue to purchase 13 Embraer E190 aircraft and 36 General Electric CF34-10E6 engines, marking a significant expansion of its mid-life regional jet portfolio. This move bolsters Azorra’s presence in the E-Jet market, as JetBlue continues to phase out its E190 fleet in favor of the newer Airbus A220s. JetBlue plans to operate its last E190 flight in September, with the retired planes and engines set to find new life under leases with various global carriers.
The timing of this acquisition couldn’t be better for Azorra, as the demand for regional jets remains robust amid ongoing supply chain challenges that limit the availability of new aircraft and engines. The 13 E190s and 36 engines will provide operators with much-needed fleet flexibility and cost efficiency. Notably, the engines have substantial remaining green time, offering immediate solutions for operators dealing with maintenance gaps or short-term fleet needs. Azorra has already begun receiving deliveries, which will continue through the second quarter of 2026. CEO John Evans expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with JetBlue, highlighting the reliability and long-term value of the Embraer E-Jet family and GE engines.
JetBlue, which was the launch customer for the E190 back in 2005, is transitioning to the slightly larger Airbus A220s, which offer better fuel efficiency and lower emissions. The E190s, with their 100-seat configuration, have been a staple in JetBlue’s fleet, but the airline is now looking to the future with the 140-seat A220s. This shift not only aligns with JetBlue’s sustainability goals but also enhances passenger experience with more modern amenities.
#AviationNews #RegionalJets #FleetExpansion #JetBlue #Azorra #EmbraerE190 #AirbusA220
Originally reported by Simple Flying Read More
