Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Airlink Expands Fleet with Ten Embraer E195-E2 Jets via Azorra Lease
Airlink leases 10 Embraer E195-E2 aircraft from Azorra, increasing capacity by 33% and fuel efficiency by 29%, with deliveries from 2025 to 2027.
South African regional airline Airlink has taken a significant step in its growth trajectory by finalizing a lease agreement with US-based lessor Azorra for ten new Embraer E195-E2 Commercial-Aircraft. This transaction, valued at approximately $600 million based on the E195-E2’s base purchase price, marks one of the largest recent fleet investments by an African carrier. The deal is set to enhance Airlink’s operational capacity by about 33% and deliver up to 29% fuel savings compared to its existing first-generation E195 aircraft. As Airlink prepares for a leadership transition and benefits from a recent equity investment by Qatar Airways, this move underscores the airline’s ambitions in the evolving African aviation landscape.
The agreement involves three prominent industry players: Airlink, Embraer, and Azorra. Airlink’s decision to modernize its fleet with the E195-E2 is both a response to increasing regional demand and a strategic effort to remain competitive in a rapidly expanding aviation market. Scheduled Deliveries will begin in late 2025, with all aircraft expected to arrive by 2027, positioning Airlink to capitalize on the projected growth in African air travel and global aircraft leasing.
This article examines the backgrounds of the companies involved, the technical and operational advantages of the E195-E2, the financial and strategic implications of the lease, and the broader context of the African and global aviation markets.
Airlink, established in 1992, has become South Africa’s largest independent regional Airlines. The carrier operates 68 aircraft and serves 45 destinations across 15 countries, handling over 3 million passengers annually. Over its three-decade history, Airlink has navigated major industry shifts, including the deregulation of South African aviation, separation from South African Airways, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The airline’s long-standing relationship with Embraer, operating various models since 2001, has fostered operational expertise and efficiencies through fleet commonality.
In August 2024, Qatar Airways acquired a 25% equity stake in Airlink, further cementing the airline’s strategic significance. The partnership is designed to support Qatar Airways’ African expansion and provides Airlink with financial strength and access to broader global networks. This investment coincides with a leadership transition: CEO Rodger Foster is set to step down in March 2025 after 33 years, with De Villiers Engelbrecht, Airlink’s current CFO, taking the helm. Engelbrecht’s experience, particularly during the SAA separation and pandemic, positions him to guide the airline through its next phase.
Azorra, the lessor in this transaction, is a US-based company specializing in regional and narrowbody aircraft. Led by CEO John Evans, Azorra manages a fleet exceeding 100 aircraft and has a global customer base spanning 35 operators in 31 countries. Azorra’s expertise in the regional aviation market and its strong relationships with Manufacturers like Embraer make it a strategic partner for Airlink’s fleet renewal.
“The E195-E2 offers the perfect combination of increased capacity, efficiency and flexibility, helping Airlink expand its network while maintaining the high-frequency service its passengers value.” — John Evans, CEO, Azorra
Azorra’s business model focuses on providing tailored leasing solutions for regional and crossover aircraft. The company’s leadership, particularly John Evans, brings decades of experience in aircraft leasing, having previously founded and sold successful leasing firms. Azorra’s global reach and direct delivery arrangements with manufacturers allow for efficient fleet integration and support for airline customers.
For the Airlink deal, Azorra’s ability to deliver E195-E2 aircraft directly from Embraer’s Brazilian facilities ensures that the aircraft will be configured to Airlink’s specifications. This direct-from-manufacturer approach streamlines the induction process and provides Airlink with the latest technology and cabin features. Azorra’s growing portfolio and its focus on regional aviation align with Airlink’s operational needs. The lessor’s understanding of the African market, combined with its financial strength, enables it to structure lease agreements that support airlines’ growth while managing risk and ensuring flexibility.
Airlink’s decision to lease the E195-E2 is informed by its strategy to expand capacity and improve efficiency while maintaining flexibility across its diverse route network. The E195-E2’s operational commonality with existing E-Jets minimizes training and integration costs, while its range and capacity enable Airlink to match aircraft size to market demand.
The phased delivery schedule, beginning in late 2025 and concluding by 2027, allows Airlink to gradually introduce the new aircraft, train crews, and develop new routes without disrupting existing operations. This measured approach is critical for maintaining service quality and operational reliability during a period of rapid growth.
The recent equity investment by Qatar Airways and the leadership transition to De Villiers Engelbrecht further position Airlink to leverage new market opportunities. The partnership with Qatar Airways provides access to a broader international network and enhances Airlink’s ability to compete for connecting traffic between Africa and global destinations.
The Embraer E195-E2 is the largest and most advanced member of Embraer’s E-Jet E2 family. Airlink’s aircraft will be configured to seat between 124 and 136 passengers in a two-by-two layout, eliminating middle seats and enhancing passenger comfort. The E195-E2’s design prioritizes both efficiency and flexibility, making it well-suited for the varied infrastructure and route profiles found in Africa.
Key technical features include a maximum cruise speed of Mach 0.82 and a range of up to 3,000 nautical miles, powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines. These engines, combined with aerodynamic enhancements such as high-aspect ratio wings, deliver up to 29% lower fuel consumption compared to first-generation E195s. The aircraft’s takeoff and landing performance allows it to operate from airports with shorter runways, a common requirement in many African markets.
The E195-E2’s advanced avionics and fly-by-wire controls improve pilot workload management and flight safety, while the cabin’s modern amenities support Airlink’s full-service positioning. The aircraft’s environmental credentials, including reduced carbon emissions, align with growing regulatory and market expectations for sustainability.
“The E195-E2’s fuel efficiency and operational flexibility make it an ideal choice for regional carriers seeking to balance cost, performance, and passenger experience.” — Industry analysis
Airlink’s adoption of the E195-E2 is expected to yield substantial operational benefits. The 29% improvement in fuel efficiency translates directly into lower operating costs and reduced environmental impact. Given that fuel expenses typically account for a significant portion of airline operating costs, these savings enhance Airlink’s competitiveness and profitability. The E195-E2’s range and performance characteristics enable Airlink to open new routes and increase frequencies on existing ones, supporting both business and leisure travel growth across sub-Saharan Africa. The aircraft’s compatibility with smaller airports also expands Airlink’s reach into underserved markets.
From a passenger perspective, the E195-E2’s cabin design, featuring two-by-two seating, ample overhead bin space, and modern lighting, supports Airlink’s aim to deliver a premium travel experience relative to low-cost competitors.
One of the key advantages of the E195-E2 for Airlink is its high degree of commonality with the airline’s existing E-Jet fleet. This reduces training requirements for pilots and maintenance crews, simplifies parts inventory, and streamlines operational procedures. As a result, Airlink can integrate the new aircraft with minimal disruption and maximize fleet utilization.
The gradual delivery schedule allows Airlink to manage crew training and route development in parallel with aircraft arrivals. This phased approach mitigates risk and enables the airline to adjust its deployment strategy based on market response.
The E195-E2’s advanced maintenance systems and reliability features further support Airlink’s operational objectives by minimizing downtime and supporting high aircraft utilization rates.
The African aviation market is experiencing steady growth, with the South African sector projected to increase from $6.29 billion in 2023 to $8.66 billion by 2032. Tourism and intra-African trade are key drivers, with 8.5 million foreign visitors recorded in South Africa in 2023, a nearly 50% increase from the previous year. Airlink’s network strategy, which focuses on connecting African markets, is well-aligned with these trends.
The financial structure of the Azorra lease provides Airlink with capital flexibility. Leasing, as opposed to outright purchase, allows Airlink to preserve cash for other strategic investments and manage its balance sheet more effectively. With the global aircraft leasing market projected to double in value over the next decade, leasing continues to be a preferred strategy for airlines seeking to modernize fleets without incurring high upfront costs.
The E195-E2’s efficiency gains, combined with the increased capacity, are expected to improve Airlink’s unit economics. The aircraft’s lower fuel consumption and maintenance costs, along with the ability to serve both high-density and thinner regional routes, support Airlink’s profitability and growth ambitions. “Our investment in Airlink further demonstrates how integral we see Africa being to our business’ future.” — Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, CEO, Qatar Airways Group
Airlink operates in a competitive environment that includes legacy carriers, low-cost airlines, and regional specialists. Its full-service model, extensive network, and now-modernizing fleet differentiate it from competitors and position it to capture a growing share of regional and connecting traffic.
The partnership with Qatar Airways, combined with the E195-E2’s capabilities, enables Airlink to offer improved connectivity and service levels. As African economies and aviation infrastructure develop, Airlink is well-placed to expand its network and capture new market opportunities.
Embraer’s strong performance in 2024, with 206 aircraft delivered and $6.4 billion in revenue, reflects growing global demand for efficient regional aircraft. The E195-E2’s adoption by Airlink further validates the model’s appeal in emerging markets.
Airlink’s lease agreement with Azorra for ten Embraer E195-E2 aircraft marks a transformative moment for the airline and the African regional aviation sector. The deal delivers immediate operational benefits, greater capacity, improved efficiency, and enhanced passenger experience, while laying the groundwork for long-term network expansion and market leadership.
With a modernized fleet, strategic partnerships, and experienced leadership, Airlink is poised to capitalize on the projected growth in African air travel. The E195-E2’s advanced technology and environmental performance support Airlink’s sustainability goals and competitive positioning as the continent’s preeminent regional carrier.
What is the value of Airlink’s lease agreement with Azorra? When will Airlink receive the new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft? How will the E195-E2 benefit Airlink’s operations? What is the seating configuration of Airlink’s E195-E2 aircraft? Who are the key stakeholders in this deal? Sources: Embraer Media Center, Azorra, Airlink, Statista
Airlink Finalizes Major Fleet Expansion with Ten Embraer E195-E2 Aircraft Through Azorra Lease Agreement
Corporate Backgrounds and Strategic Positioning
Azorra’s Role as Strategic Lessor
Airlink’s Strategic Growth and Market Positioning
Aircraft Specifications and Technical Capabilities
Operational and Environmental Benefits
Integration and Fleet Commonality
Market Dynamics, Financial Implications, and Strategic Outlook
Competitive Landscape and Future Prospects
Conclusion
FAQ
The agreement is valued at approximately $600 million based on the E195-E2’s base purchase price of $60 million per aircraft.
Deliveries are scheduled to begin in late 2025, with all ten aircraft expected to arrive by 2027.
The E195-E2 offers up to 29% fuel savings compared to Airlink’s current E195s, increased passenger capacity, and operational flexibility for both high-density and regional routes.
The aircraft will be configured for 124–136 passengers in a two-by-two layout, with no middle seats.
Airlink (South Africa’s largest independent regional airline), Azorra (US-based aircraft lessor), and Embraer (Brazilian aircraft manufacturer).
Photo Credit: Embraer
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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