Swiss carrier Helvetic Airways placed an order with Embraer this morning at the Dubai Airshow for 3 firm and 5 options for E195-E2 aircraft, expanding their Embraer fleet. Helvetica currently operates 20 Embraer aircraft, and the 8 additional aircraft covered by today’s agreement provides for growth in their European operations. 12 of their current 20 aircraft are E2 models, and the first of the additional aircraft will arrive in 2026 as they grow their E2 fleet to 20, and overall fleet to 28 Embraer aircraft.
Helvetica Airways
Helvetica Airways operates scheduled, charter, and ACMI operations within Europe. The E2 jets are currently deployed across Helvetic’s scheduled, charter, and wet-lease operations. The airline was the first to operate the E190-E2 and the E195-E2 E2 aircraft into London City Airport
for Swiss International Air Lines, showcasing the aircraft’s steep approach capability and quiet performance. Interestingly, Swiss operates the major competitor to the E195-E2, the A220-300 on similar routes.
“We are proud to deepen our partnership with Embraer through this further order for the E2,” said Tobias Pogorevc, CEO of Helvetic Airways. “The E195-E2 is the ideal aircraft for our network, offering exceptional fuel efficiency, low noise emissions, and a high-quality passenger experience. This order supports our modern fleet strategy and sustainability goals while maintaining operational flexibility across Europe. It will also enhance our ability to serve various European customers through our ACMI operations.”
Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, added: “Helvetic Airways continues to demonstrate the versatility and value of the E2 family in European operations. Their decision to expand the E195-E2 fleet is a strong endorsement of the aircraft’s performance, economics, and environmental credentials. We’re proud to support Helvetic’s growth and their role in delivering reliable, efficient service in their main area of wet-lease operations.”
The Bottom Line
It is always a vote of confidence when airlines re-order aircraft from an OEM. Despite issues with the Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, the E2 series of jets from Embraer feature strong economics and reliability, with multiple carriers now seeking additional aircraft for their fleets. The strong endorsement of the E195-E2 as the right sized crossover jet at 134 seats has enabled the opening of new routes within Europe as well as regional feed into European hubs, both on their own and via code-share operations with major carriers. The E195-E2, after a slow start in the market, has become the go-to model from Embraer, buoyed by its strong economics and environmental performance.
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