Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Royal Air Maroc Considers Embraer E2 Jets for Fleet Modernization
Moroccan flag carrier negotiates E2 aircraft acquisition to enhance African connectivity and efficiency ahead of major events.
Royal Air Maroc (RAM), Morocco’s national flag carrier, is reportedly in discussions with Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer for a potential order of E-Jet E2 series aircraft. This development, first reported by Folha de S.Paulo and confirmed by Reuters, underscores RAM’s ambitions to modernize and expand its fleet in anticipation of major upcoming events and increasing regional competition.
The talks focus on the E195-E2 and E190-E2 models, part of Embraer’s next-generation regional jet family. These aircraft offer improved fuel efficiency, lower operating costs, and are particularly suited for regional and medium-haul routes, a strategic fit for RAM’s African and European network. The potential deal emerges amid a broader fleet renewal initiative by RAM, which aims to quadruple its fleet by 2037 and strengthen its position as a leading African carrier.
This article explores the historical context of RAM’s fleet strategy, the technical and economic profile of the Embraer E2 aircraft, the dynamics of the regional jet market, and the broader implications of this potential acquisition for the airline and the aviation industry in Africa.
Founded in 1953 through the merger of two local carriers, Royal Air Maroc has consistently pursued fleet modernization as a strategic priority. The airline introduced its first jet aircraft in 1960 and became the first Arab carrier to operate transatlantic flights to New York by 1975. Over the decades, RAM has transitioned through various aircraft types, including Caravelles, Boeing 707s, 727s, and more recently, 737s and 787 Dreamliners.
RAM’s evolution reflects Morocco’s broader ambitions to position itself as a global aviation hub. The airline is majority-owned by the Moroccan government and plays a key role in connecting the country to Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Its fleet decisions over the years have typically aligned with national development goals and regional connectivity strategies.
By maintaining a modern and diverse fleet, RAM has managed to adapt to changing market demands while retaining its identity as a full-service carrier. The potential acquisition of Embraer E2 jets continues this legacy, signaling a shift toward more fuel-efficient and right-sized aircraft for regional operations.
As of 2025, RAM operates a fleet dominated by Boeing aircraft, including 737s for short-haul and 787s for long-haul routes. The airline has phased out older models such as the Boeing 757, creating a gap in medium-haul capabilities that the Embraer E2 could fill. The current fleet composition supports RAM’s hub-and-spoke model centered in Casablanca, with a focus on African and European destinations.
The airline’s CEO, Abdelhamid Addou, has emphasized the importance of developing the African market, stating that RAM aims to offer more than point-to-point travel by enhancing regional connectivity. This strategy requires aircraft capable of serving secondary airports efficiently, a requirement that the E2 series appears well-suited to meet. RAM’s fleet renewal is also driven by Morocco’s role as a co-host of the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The government plans to double airport capacity to 78 million passengers annually, necessitating a corresponding expansion in airline capacity and network coverage.
The E-Jet E2 series represents a significant upgrade over Embraer’s original E-Jet family. Key innovations include new Pratt & Whitney geared turbofan engines, advanced avionics, and redesigned wings with raked wingtips. These features contribute to a 20-25% improvement in fuel efficiency and lower noise emissions.
The E195-E2, the largest model in the E2 family, seats up to 146 passengers and has a range of 2,600 nautical miles, making it suitable for most African routes from Casablanca. The aircraft’s short takeoff and landing capabilities also allow operations from airports with limited infrastructure, a common scenario in Africa.
Certification for the E190-E2 and E195-E2 was completed in 2018 and 2019 respectively. Both aircraft meet current international standards for noise and emissions, making them viable options for airlines prioritizing sustainability and regulatory compliance.
“The E195-E2 achieves 22% lower trip costs than the Airbus A220-300 and 24% below the Boeing 737 MAX 8 when configured with equivalent seating.”
Embraer
Embraer positions the E2 series as a bridge between regional jets and narrowbody aircraft. The E195-E2’s per-seat economics and lower trip costs make it a competitive alternative to larger jets on lower-demand routes. This is especially relevant for African markets, where traffic volumes often do not justify larger aircraft.
The E2’s cabin design features a 2-2 seating layout, eliminating middle seats and enhancing passenger comfort. Additional benefits include reduced maintenance costs and improved dispatch reliability, both of which contribute to overall operational efficiency.
These attributes make the E2 series an attractive option for airlines like RAM, which operate in diverse environments and require flexible, cost-effective solutions for regional expansion. The global regional jet market is expected to grow steadily, driven by increasing demand for regional connectivity and the replacement of aging fleets. North America currently leads the market, but the fastest growth is projected in the LAMEA region, which includes Africa.
Africa presents both challenges and opportunities. Infrastructure limitations, high operating costs, and regulatory barriers have historically constrained growth. However, improvements in safety performance and rising passenger demand indicate a positive trajectory for the region’s aviation sector.
RAM’s interest in the E2 series aligns with these trends. The aircraft’s capabilities address many of the operational constraints faced by African carriers, enabling more efficient service to underserved markets and enhancing regional integration.
RAM’s fleet renewal program includes multiple aircraft categories and manufacturers. Airbus is reportedly offering the A220-300, while Boeing is expected to provide larger aircraft such as the 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner. The E2 series targets the regional segment, where RAM seeks to improve efficiency and expand its African footprint.
Each manufacturer brings unique advantages. The A220 offers commonality with Airbus’s A320 family, which could benefit airlines with existing Airbus fleets. However, RAM’s current fleet is predominantly Boeing, potentially giving Embraer an edge in terms of integration and training.
The final decision will likely depend on a combination of factors, including performance, cost, and strategic alignment with RAM’s long-term goals. The E2’s operational flexibility and economic advantages could make it a compelling choice for the airline’s regional ambitions.
Royal Air Maroc’s potential acquisition of Embraer E2 jets represents a strategic step toward modernizing its fleet and strengthening its regional presence. The E2 series offers a combination of efficiency, flexibility, and performance that aligns with RAM’s operational needs and growth plans.
Beyond the immediate benefits for RAM, the deal could have broader implications for Embraer’s position in the African market and for the regional jet segment as a whole. As African aviation continues to evolve, the adoption of right-sized, efficient aircraft will be critical to meeting the continent’s unique challenges and opportunities. What aircraft is Royal Air Maroc considering from Embraer? Why is RAM interested in the E2 series? Are there other manufacturers competing for RAM’s fleet renewal? When will a decision be made? Sources:
Royal Air Maroc’s Potential Acquisition of Embraer E2 Jets: Strategic Fleet Modernization in African Aviation
Royal Air Maroc’s Fleet Strategy and Operational Focus
Historical Evolution of Royal Air Maroc
Current Fleet Composition and Gaps
The Embraer E2 Series: Technical and Economic Overview
Design and Performance Features
Market Position and Operational Advantages
Regional Jet Market Trends
Global and African Market Dynamics
Competition and Strategic Choices
Conclusion: Strategic Implications and Future Outlook
FAQ
RAM is in talks to acquire Embraer’s E195-E2 and E190-E2 aircraft, part of the E-Jet E2 family.
The E2 series offers higher fuel efficiency, lower operating costs, and is suitable for regional routes within Africa.
Yes, Airbus is reportedly offering the A220-300, and Boeing is expected to bid for larger aircraft categories.
RAM is expected to finalize its fleet renewal strategy before the end of the year.
Reuters,
Folha de S.Paulo,
Embraer,
IATA,
Airbus
Photo Credit: AirPro News – Montage
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
India to Purchase $80B Boeing Aircraft in $500B US Trade Deal
India plans to buy up to $80 billion in Boeing aircraft within a $500 billion trade pact with the US, including tariff reductions and energy diversification.
This article summarizes reporting by CNBC and Priyanka Salve, alongside official government statements and AirPro News analysis.
In a landmark development for global aviation and trade, India has announced plans to purchase up to $80 billion in Boeing aircraft as part of a broader strategic partnership with the United States. According to reporting by CNBC, India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, confirmed that New Delhi expects to sign a formal trade deal with the U.S. in March 2026.
The aviation commitment is the centerpiece of a massive $500 billion trade pact intended to span the next five years. While the headline figure for Boeing jets stands between $70 billion and $80 billion, officials indicate that the total value of the aviation sector deal, including engines, MRO services, could exceed $100 billion.
This agreement signals a profound shift in India’s geopolitical and economic strategy, trading market access and energy realignment for relief from punitive U.S. tariffs.
The scale of the reported aircraft purchase underscores India’s position as the fastest-growing aviation market in the world. According to details shared by Minister Goyal and summarized by CNBC, the deal allocates a specific $70–$80 billion tranche for Boeing airframes.
Industry observers note that this figure likely aggregates the value of deliveries from existing record-breaking orders alongside new commitments. Air India, owned by the Tata Group, placed a historic order in 2023 for 470 aircraft (split between Boeing and Airbus) and finalized an additional order for 30 Boeing 737 MAX jets in January 2026. Similarly, Akasa Air holds a substantial order book extending through 2032.
Boeing executives have previously confirmed plans to deliver approximately two aircraft per month to Indian carriers to meet surging travel demand. The inclusion of engines and aftermarket services pushes the total aviation package over the $100 billion mark, cementing the U.S. aerospace giant’s foothold in South Asia.
Contextualizing the Order Book: While the $80 billion figure is staggering, we believe it is crucial to interpret this as a “delivery value” commitment over the five-year pact rather than solely a new purchase agreement for unannounced jets. At current list prices (after standard discounts), $80 billion represents roughly 600 to 800 narrowbody jets or a significant mix of widebodies. Given Boeing’s current backlog constraints, fulfilling $80 billion in entirely new orders within five years would be logistically improbable. It is more likely that the Indian government is guaranteeing the execution and payment of the massive backlogs already held by Air India, Akasa, and potentially SpiceJet, framing these commercial milestones as diplomatic victories. Beyond aviation, the trade deal outlines a reciprocal reduction in trade barriers. The United States has agreed to slash tariffs on Indian imports from 50% to 18%, a move expected to boost Indian exporters. In exchange, India has committed to purchasing $500 billion in American goods and services over five years.
A critical component of the negotiations involves India’s energy procurement. Following the invasion of Ukraine, India became a primary consumer of discounted Russian crude. However, the new trade framework reportedly includes provisions for India to shift away from Russian energy.
U.S. President Donald Trump explicitly claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed to stop buying Russian oil. However, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has maintained a more nuanced public stance. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that energy security remains the nation’s “supreme priority,” noting that India would diversify based on commercial viability. This includes potential resumption of imports from Venezuela and increased purchases from the United States.
“Energy security is the supreme priority [for India’s 1.4 billion citizens].”
— Randhir Jaiswal, MEA Spokesperson (via press briefing)
The trade deal has triggered sharp criticism within India. The opposition Congress party has characterized the agreement as a surrender of sovereignty, particularly regarding the pressure to alter energy partners and lower agricultural tariffs.
Opposition leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Jairam Ramesh have voiced concerns that the influx of U.S. agricultural products could harm local farmers, warning of potential protests similar to those seen in 2021. Minister Goyal has defended the pact, asserting that it protects sensitive sectors like dairy and agriculture while securing essential technology and energy partnerships.
When will the deal be signed? Is the $80 billion for new planes only? What does the U.S. offer in return? Will India stop buying Russian oil?
Breakdown of the $100 Billion Aviation Commitment
Commercial Implications
AirPro News Analysis
The Broader Strategic Trade Pact
The “Russian Oil” Pivot
Domestic Opposition and Political Fallout
Frequently Asked Questions
According to Minister Piyush Goyal, the formal trade agreement is scheduled to be signed in March 2026, following a joint statement expected in early February.
The figure likely represents a mix of new commitments and the value of deliveries from existing massive orders (like Air India’s 2023 deal) scheduled for the next five years.
The U.S. has agreed to reduce tariffs on Indian goods from 50% to 18%, significantly improving market access for Indian exporters.
While the U.S. President claims an agreement is in place, Indian officials state they are diversifying energy sources based on commercial viability and security, without explicitly confirming a total ban.
Sources
Photo Credit: Daily Shipping Times
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
CDB Aviation Delivers Three Boeing 737-8 Jets to WestJet in 2026
CDB Aviation delivers three Boeing 737-8 aircraft to WestJet, increasing leased jets to 13 and supporting fleet growth for summer 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from CDB Aviation.
On February 5, 2026, CDB Aviation announced the successful delivery of three Boeing 737-8 aircraft to WestJet. According to the official press release from the Irish subsidiary of China Development Bank Financial Leasing Co., Ltd., these deliveries mark the completion of a lease agreement originally announced in January 2024. The addition of these aircraft brings the total number of CDB Aviation-leased jets in the WestJet fleet to 13, reinforcing a strategic partnership that began in 2020.
The newly delivered aircraft are part of WestJet’s broader strategy to modernize its fleet and expand its network capacity for the 2026 summer schedule. By securing these airframes directly from CDB Aviation’s existing order book, WestJet has bypassed some of the manufacturing delays currently affecting the global aviation supply-chain. The airline continues to hold the largest narrowbody order book of any Canadian carrier.
The three Boeing 737-8s (commonly referred to as the MAX 8) were delivered on February 5, 2026. These aircraft were leased directly from CDB Aviation’s order book with Boeing, a mechanism that allows airlines to access capacity more quickly than through direct manufacturer orders in a constrained market.
According to data associated with the delivery, WestJet’s 737-8 fleet is typically configured to seat 174 passengers, split between 12 Premium seats and 162 Economy seats. The aircraft are equipped with satellite-supported Wi-Fi and in-seat power, aligning with the carrier’s focus on passenger connectivity. The 737-8 is powered by CFM LEAP-1B engines, which deliver approximately 15% greater fuel efficiency and a 40% reduction in noise footprint compared to the previous generation 737-800NG.
Both companies highlighted the strength of their ongoing relationship. Luís da Silva, Head of Commercial, Americas at CDB Aviation, emphasized the history between the two entities in a statement included in the release:
“We’ve built a strong partnership with the WestJet team since the inaugural transaction between our companies in 2020. To date, we have financed and leased a total of 13 737-8 aircraft which support this strong and growing Canadian airline.”
Jennifer Bue, Senior Vice President and Treasurer at WestJet, also commented on the significance of the delivery for the airline’s growth trajectory:
“CDB Aviation is a valued partner of WestJet. The relationship enables WestJet to continue our momentum driving our growth strategy.”
This delivery comes at a critical time for WestJet as the airline approaches a total fleet size of nearly 200 aircraft, including its subsidiaries. The additional capacity is slated to support an aggressive network expansion, including new international connections such as Toronto to Medellín, Colombia, and increased frequencies to sun destinations. The Role of Lessors in a Constrained Supply Chain
The delivery of these three aircraft highlights a vital trend in the 2026 aviation market: the increasing reliance on lessors to bridge the gap caused by OEM production delays. While manufacturers work to clear backlogs, lessors like CDB Aviation, who hold significant positions in the delivery queue, are becoming essential partners for airlines needing immediate lift. For WestJet, leasing directly from CDB’s order book allows them to circumvent the long wait times associated with direct orders, ensuring they can capitalize on the projected travel demand for the summer 2026 season. This transaction underscores that in the current climate, access to delivery slots is just as valuable as capital.
How many aircraft does CDB Aviation lease to WestJet? What is the primary benefit of the Boeing 737-8 for WestJet? When was this deal originally agreed upon?
CDB Aviation Delivers Three Boeing 737-8 Aircraft to WestJet
Transaction Details and Fleet Configuration
Aircraft Specifications
Executive Commentary
Strategic Implications for 2026
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
With the delivery of these three aircraft on February 5, 2026, CDB Aviation now leases a total of 13 Boeing 737-8 aircraft to WestJet.
The 737-8 offers significantly improved fuel efficiency (approximately 15% better than the 737NG) and a longer range (approx. 3,550 nm), allowing WestJet to operate routes like Western Canada to Europe or Toronto to South America more economically.
The lease agreement for these specific aircraft was originally announced on January 23, 2024.
Sources
Photo Credit: CDB Aviation
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
De Havilland Canada Delivers Refurbished Dash 8-400 to TrueNoord
De Havilland Canada delivers an OEM refurbished Dash 8-400 to TrueNoord, leased to Nexus Airlines for regional routes in Western Australia.
This article is based on an official press release from De Havilland Canada.
On February 4, 2026, De Havilland Aircraft of Canada (DHC) announced the delivery of an OEM Refurbished Dash 8-400 to the specialist regional aircraft lessor TrueNoord. According to the company’s official statement, the aircraft is immediately being leased to Nexus Airlines, a regional carrier based in Western Australia.
This delivery underscores the growing importance of DHC’s OEM Certified Refurbishment Program. With the production of new Dash 8-400 commercial-aircraft currently paused, this program serves as a critical pipeline for operators seeking “like-new” turboprops to meet regional connectivity demands. The transaction, originally announced in September 2025, has now reached completion with the handover of the airframe.
The newly delivered aircraft will join the fleet of Nexus Airlines, a carrier launched in 2023 that serves remote and regional communities. Nexus currently holds an exclusive contract with the Western Australian Government to operate the Inter-Regional Flight Network (IRFN), connecting hubs such as Geraldton, Karratha, Port Hedland, and Broome.
In the press release, Nexus Airlines leadership emphasized that the acquisition aligns with their strategy to reinforce essential air services.
“This acquisition marks an important milestone in our fleet strategy… we are strengthening our commitment to providing reliable, community-focused air services in Western Australia.”
, Michael McConachy, Managing Director, Nexus Airlines
The Dash 8-400 is particularly well-suited for the vast distances of Western Australia, offering higher speeds and longer range compared to competitor turboprops. This capability allows Nexus to maintain efficient schedules across routes that often exceed 1,000 miles.
As the manufacturer evaluates a potential restart of the Dash 8 production line, the OEM Certified Refurbishment Program has become a primary vehicle for maintaining fleet relevance. Through this program, DHC acquires used airframes and upgrades them to current operational standards. These upgrades often include avionics modernization, cabin refurbishments, and life-extension works that can significantly prolong the airframe’s operational cycles. Ryan DeBrusk, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at De Havilland Canada, highlighted the program’s value proposition in the official release:
“Our OEM Refurbished Program delivers high-quality aircraft designed to meet the needs of growing regional operations, while providing exceptional value, performance, and reliability.”
, Ryan DeBrusk, VP Sales & Marketing, De Havilland Canada
For lessors like TrueNoord, the program offers a way to supply clients with reliable assets that carry manufacturer backing, mitigating the risks typically associated with older used inventory.
TrueNoord, a specialist lessor focused on the 50–150 seat regional aircraft market, continues to expand its portfolio of Dash 8-400s. This delivery follows their acquisition of a batch of aircraft from Nordic Aviation Capital in late 2023. By utilizing the refurbishment program, TrueNoord ensures that its assets remain competitive and reliable for operators in challenging environments like Australia and Africa.
Carst Lindeboom, Director Asia Pacific for TrueNoord, noted the confidence the lessor places in the manufacturer-led refurbishment:
“The OEM Refurbished Program ensures delivery of a Dash 8-400 that is both reliable and versatile, and we are confident it will enable our customer to deliver vital air services with confidence.”
, Carst Lindeboom, Director Asia Pacific, TrueNoord
The Bridge to Future Production
We observe that this delivery highlights a significant trend in the regional aviation sector: the “tightness” of the high-quality turboprop market. With no new Dash 8s rolling off the line since 2022 and a backlog for competitor aircraft like the ATR 72, operators are increasingly reliant on refurbishment programs to source capacity. While DHC has indicated that a decision regarding the restart of production (potentially in Alberta) could be made around the 2025/2026 timeframe, the Refurbishment Program effectively bridges the gap. It allows the OEM to maintain a commercial relationship with operators and lessors while preserving the asset value of the existing global fleet. For Nexus Airlines, securing a factory-refurbished unit provides operational certainty in a market where spare parts and reliable airframes are becoming premium commodities.
De Havilland Canada Delivers OEM Refurbished Dash 8-400 to TrueNoord for Nexus Airlines
Strengthening Regional Connectivity in Western Australia
The Role of the OEM Certified Refurbishment Program
Lessor Strategy and Market Context
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: De Havilland
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