Virgin Australia welcomes its first Embraer E190-E2 in Perth

Virgin Australia welcomed its first Embraer E190-E2 jet in Perth, marking the 1,900th global delivery of an E-Jet by Embraer. The aircraft, named Coral Bay, arrived after a ferry flight that included stops in Texas, Los Angeles, Hawaii, Fiji, and Canberra.

The E190-E2 will be operated by Virgin Australia Regional Airlines (VARA) from the carrier’s new hangar in Perth. The aircraft is configured with a dual-class layout, offering business class and featuring a two-by-two seating arrangement with no middle seats. According to the airline, high-speed Wi-Fi will be available onboard from 2026.

With certification for up to 50% sustainable aviation fuel use and a 30% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the Fokker 100s currently in operation, the E190-E2 is also noted for having the lowest noise levels in its category.

Virgin Australia has placed firm orders for eight E190-E2 jets, representing an investment of over US$500 million.

The introduction of the new E2 aircraft will allow VARA to fully retire its Fokker 100 fleet by early 2026. The E190-E2s are set to operate charter and scheduled services across Western Australia, including routes to Darwin, Kalgoorlie, Karratha, Port Hedland, and Broome. The airline expects to receive three additional E2s by 2026.

Nick Rohrlach, chief executive of VARA, stated, “The arrival of the E190-E2 is a significant milestone for aviation in Western Australia, supporting our ability to provide reliable services across the region.”

Virgin Australia plans to continue the renewal of its regional fleet, with further E2 deliveries anticipated to enhance operational efficiency and passenger experience on both charter and commercial routes.

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