[aviation news]
Brazilian manufacturer Embraer has just announced that it has secured an order from Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) for 55 E195-E2 aircraft. This is the largest order placed by SAS with Embraer since 1996, marking a historic moment for the European airline.
Strategic Fleet Renewal
Deliveries of the new aircraft are due to begin at the end of 2027. The deal represents a major step forward in SAS’s long-term fleet strategy. The airline moves toward integrating next-generation aircraft focused on sustainability, efficiency, and passenger comfort. The Embraer aircraft will be crucial in achieving these goals.
“This is a defining moment for SAS,” says Anko van der Werff, President & CEO, SAS. “The Embraer E195-E2 is a world-class aircraft, combining outstanding performance with excellent fuel efficiency and comfort.”
“This aircraft is key to enabling future growth and improved connectivity across Scandinavia and beyond. We’ve taken the time to make the right decision. This major investment reflects our confidence in the future and the strength of the agreement we’ve secured, particularly with Embraer’s involvement.”
The E195-E2 will play a vital role in optimizing SAS’s operations and improving regional connectivity. Its size and range are ideally suited to complement the airline’s existing fleet and route structure. This allows for more frequent flights, better network flexibility, and lower trip costs.
Enhancing Regional Connectivity Across Scandinavia and Europe
SAS operates a hub-and-spoke model from its key hubs in Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Oslo. The Embraer E195-E2 is perfectly suited for mid-length Scandinavian and European routes. It fills a capacity gap between larger narrowbodies like the A320neo and smaller aircraft such as turboprops and CRJs.
The wider cabin and efficient seat layout help reduce per-seat costs and improve fuel efficiency. This supports SAS’s focus on sustainability and passenger experience, and aligns with their reliance on Embraer’s innovation in design.
Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, says: “We are thrilled to deepen our partnership with SAS through this landmark deal. The E2 is the quietest single aisle jet available today. It is 29% more fuel efficient and has a 62% reduction in noise footprint over the previous generation jet.”
“The E195-E2 is a game-changer in terms of efficiency, performance, and passenger comfort. We are confident these aircraft will play a crucial role in SAS’ fleet renewal and expansion strategy. They will support their ambitious growth plans and enhance their operational capabilities, thanks to Embraer.”
Strengthening SAS’s Competitive Edge Post-Restructuring
This significant order also aligns with SAS’s post-Chapter 11 restructuring efforts. In June 2024, Air France-KLM, the Danish government, and a group of financial backers helped reshape the airline. They received approval from both U.S. and European regulators.
Following these structural changes, SAS exited Star Alliance after 27 years and officially joined the SkyTeam alliance in September 2024. These moves are part of a broader strategy to stabilize the carrier and reinforce its position in both the Nordic and European aviation markets. The inclusion of Embraer’s E195-E2 aircraft strengthens this restructuring initiative.
Van der Werff noted that the new E195-E2 fleet will help transform Copenhagen into a strong international hub. It also boosts capabilities at SAS’s secondary hubs in Stockholm and Oslo.
SAS’s Network Ambitions With the E2 Fleet
The aircraft will initially be deployed by SAS Link, the airline group’s regional operator, which currently operates 12 E195s. The E2s will take over several regional routes formerly flown by Widerøe, a carrier recently sold off by SAS. They will also supplement Airbus aircraft on midsize sectors.
This deployment supports SAS’s broader goal of strengthening regional connectivity. The launch of long-haul routes to Mumbai and Seoul in June 2025 further reflects SAS’s intention to expand its footprint. It also enhances accessibility to smaller Nordic cities and improves feeder links into global long-haul traffic. Embraer’s E2s are pivotal in achieving these network expansion goals.
Boeing and Airbus Miss Out
With this announcement, it’s clear that Boeing and Airbus have missed out on securing this fleet renewal deal. This may be less surprising in the case of Airbus, which already supplies aircraft to SAS. It faces substantial backlog issues on its single-aisle production lines.
However, the impact is more severe for Boeing, as it continues to struggle with delivery issues and recent reputational challenges. If Embraer continues to make gains in key markets like Europe, Boeing’s position as a global leader may face even more pressure.
Read More: How Can Boeing Ever Recover?
Final Thoughts
The Embraer E195-E2 order represents far more than just an aircraft acquisition. It’s a strategic shift that ties together sustainability, operational efficiency, and enhanced regional service. For SAS, it’s a bold move to modernize its fleet and strengthen its competitive edge. For Embraer, it marks a major European endorsement of its next-generation aircraft program.
As the industry confronts tight margins, environmental pressure, and growing demand, this order sets an example of forward-thinking aviation strategy. With the first aircraft expected to be delivered in late 2027, SAS is preparing to enter a new era — rebuilt, re-energized, and ready to lead Scandinavian aviation into the future, alongside Embraer.
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