Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Helvetic Airways Expands Fleet with Embraer E195-E2 Jets for Europe
Helvetic Airways orders Embraer E195-E2 jets to enhance fleet efficiency and sustainability in Europe’s aviation market by 2027.
In a move that signals strong confidence in next-generation regional aircraft, Swiss carrier Helvetic Airways has announced a significant expansion of its partnership with Brazilian aerospace giant Embraer. The deal, unveiled at the Dubai Air Show 2025, includes a firm order for three new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, plus purchase rights for an additional five. This strategic acquisition is set to bolster Helvetic’s fleet, enhance its operational capabilities, and reinforce its commitment to a more sustainable and efficient future in European aviation.
The relationship between Helvetic Airways and Embraer is not new. The Swiss airline has been a long-standing operator of Embraer’s E-Jet family and was a key European launch customer for the advanced E2 series. This latest order builds upon an initial 2018 agreement for 12 E190-E2s, which included the flexibility to convert orders to the larger E195-E2 model. By expanding its E2 fleet, Helvetic is not just buying new planes; it’s investing in a platform known for its superior performance, particularly in challenging operational environments like London City Airport.
This fleet modernization is a calculated step in Helvetic’s long-term strategy. The airline operates a diverse business model that includes scheduled flights, charter services, and extensive wet-lease operations, most notably for Swiss International Air Lines. The addition of more E195-E2s provides the carrier with increased capacity and flexibility, allowing it to better serve its partners and adapt to the dynamic demands of the European market. The move underscores a broader industry trend towards right-sizing fleets with aircraft that offer the best combination of efficiency, passenger comfort, and environmental performance.
At the heart of this deal is the Embraer E195-E2 itself, an aircraft lauded for its technological advancements. The decision to expand the E2 fleet is a direct reflection of the aircraft’s proven capabilities. According to Helvetic Airways CEO Tobias Pogorevc, the E195-E2 is considered the “ideal aircraft” for the airline’s network. Its standout features include remarkable fuel efficiency and significantly lower noise emissions, two critical factors in today’s environmentally conscious aviation landscape. These characteristics align perfectly with Helvetic’s sustainability goals and the stringent noise regulations at many European airports.
The new aircraft will be configured with 134 seats in a single-class layout, featuring modern Recaro seating designed to enhance the passenger experience. This focus on comfort, combined with the E2’s quiet cabin, positions Helvetic to offer a premium service whether flying under its own brand or on behalf of its wet-lease clients. The delivery of the first aircraft from this new order is slated for the end of 2026, with the firm orders expected to be completed by spring 2027. This timeline allows for a seamless integration into Helvetic’s operational planning and fleet retirement schedule for its older, first-generation E-jets.
The expansion is also a testament to the E2 family’s versatility. Helvetic was the first airline to operate both the E190-E2 and E195-E2 into London City Airport, a feat that requires steep approach certification and showcases the aircraft’s exceptional performance. This capability opens up lucrative routes into centrally located, business-focused airports, giving Helvetic a competitive edge. The new order will potentially grow Helvetic’s E2 fleet from 12 to 20 aircraft, solidifying its status as a leading European operator of Embraer’s most advanced regional jets.
“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.” — Tobias Pogorevc, CEO of Helvetic Airways
This order does more than just add airframes to a fleet; it deepens a crucial strategic partnership between Helvetic Airways and Embraer. For Embraer, a repeat order from a discerning European carrier is a powerful endorsement of its E2 platform. Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, highlighted this, stating that Helvetic’s decision is a “strong endorsement of the aircraft’s performance, economics, and environmental credentials.” It signals to the market that the E2 is not just meeting, but exceeding, the expectations of operators in the highly competitive European theater.
Helvetic’s current fleet is a mix of old and new, comprising eight E190-E2s, four E195-E2s, and eight first-generation E-Jets (four E190s and four E195s). The new E195-E2s will play a pivotal role in the gradual phasing out of the older, less efficient models. This fleet modernization is critical for maintaining a competitive cost structure, as the E2 offers significant reductions in fuel burn, emissions, and maintenance costs compared to its predecessors. This efficiency is particularly valuable for Helvetic’s ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) operations, where tight margins and reliability are paramount. The continued investment in the E2 family positions Helvetic Airways for robust growth. The added capacity and operational flexibility will enhance its ability to compete for wet-lease contracts across the continent. As larger airlines continue to right-size their regional operations, partners like Helvetic, with a modern and efficient fleet, become increasingly attractive. This strategic foresight ensures that Helvetic is well-equipped to navigate the future of European aviation, which will undoubtedly be shaped by demands for greater sustainability and economic efficiency.
Helvetic Airways’ new order for up to eight Embraer E195-E2 jets is a clear and decisive step towards a more modern, sustainable, and flexible future. The move reinforces the airline’s commitment to operational excellence and environmental responsibility, leveraging the advanced technology of the E2 platform to meet the evolving demands of the European market. By phasing out older aircraft in favor of a state-of-the-art fleet, Helvetic is not only enhancing its passenger experience but also strengthening its competitive position as a premier wet-lease provider.
This expanded partnership between Helvetic and Embraer serves as a powerful case study for the future of regional aviation. It highlights the critical role that next-generation aircraft like the E195-E2 will play in building a more efficient and sustainable industry. As airlines navigate the dual challenges of economic viability and environmental stewardship, strategic fleet decisions like this one will be essential for long-term success, ensuring that carriers can grow responsibly while delivering reliable and high-quality service.
Question: What aircraft did Helvetic Airways order? Question: When will the new aircraft be delivered? Question: How will the new E195-E2 jets be configured? Question: Why did Helvetic Airways choose the Embraer E195-E2? Sources: Embraer News
Helvetic Airways Doubles Down on Embraer‘s E2 Jets, Fueling European Growth
A Strategic Bet on Efficiency and Sustainability
Deepening a Key Partnership in European Aviation
Conclusion: Charting a Course for a Modern Fleet
FAQ
Answer: Helvetic Airways placed a firm order for three Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, with purchase rights for an additional five.
Answer: The first aircraft from the firm order is scheduled for delivery at the end of 2026, with all three expected to be delivered by the spring of 2027.
Answer: The aircraft will be configured with 134 seats in a single-class layout, featuring modern Recaro seating.
Answer: The airline chose the E195-E2 for its exceptional fuel efficiency, low noise emissions, passenger comfort, and operational flexibility, which align with its network strategy and sustainability goals.
Photo Credit: Embraer
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
TrueNoord Sells Two Embraer E190s to Airlink for Fleet Support
TrueNoord finalized the sale of two Embraer E190 aircraft to Airlink, helping the airline secure critical parts amid supply chain challenges.
This article is based on an official press release from TrueNoord.
Regional aircraft lessor TrueNoord has announced the completion of a sale involving two Embraer E190 aircraft to Airlink, South Africa’s premier independent regional airline. The transaction, which was finalized in December 2025, marks a strategic shift for the operator as it seeks to bolster its supply-chain resilience.
According to the official announcement, the aircraft were previously on lease to the U.S. carrier Breeze Airways. Unlike traditional fleet expansions aimed at increasing capacity, Airlink has acquired these specific airframes primarily to harvest engines and critical components. This move is designed to support the operational reliability of the airline’s existing fleet amidst ongoing global supply chain constraints.
The aviation industry continues to navigate a complex environment characterized by shortages of spare parts and maintenance delays. Airlink’s decision to purchase these older E190 airframes outright reflects a growing trend among operators to secure their own supply lines rather than relying solely on delayed OEM shipments.
In the company statement, Airlink CEO de Villiers Engelbrecht emphasized the necessity of this approach to maintain service levels.
“Securing these aircraft is a strategic move to safeguard the reliability of our Embraer fleet. By acquiring additional engines and components, we can mitigate the impact of global supply chain disruptions and maintain the high standards of service our customers expect.”
, de Villiers Engelbrecht, CEO of Airlink
While the airline is assessing options for the future operation of these airframes, the immediate priority remains the availability of spares, specifically GE CF34 engines, to keep their active fleet flying.
The two Embraer E190s were marketed by TrueNoord following their lease term with Breeze Airways. TrueNoord, a specialist regional aircraft lessor headquartered in Amsterdam, manages a fleet of over 100 regional aircraft. This transaction highlights the lessor’s ability to remarket assets across different continents, moving aircraft from a U.S. operator to an African carrier to solve specific operational challenges. Richard Jacobs, Chief Commercial Officer at TrueNoord, noted the collaborative nature of the deal:
“Further strengthening our existing relationship with this leading African operator, our joint collaborative efforts ensured the sale was finalised in a timely, streamlined and efficient manner. Additional thanks also go to the aircraft’s previous lessee, Breeze, for their support throughout the process.”
, Richard Jacobs, CCO, TrueNoord
This sale builds upon an established relationship between the two companies. In April 2023, TrueNoord novated the leases of two other E190s to Airlink from Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC). However, the 2025 transaction differs significantly as it involves the outright transfer of ownership rather than a leasing arrangement.
Airlink currently operates a fleet of approximately 70 aircraft, predominantly consisting of Embraer regional jets. While this acquisition focuses on older airframes for parts, the airline is simultaneously pursuing modernization. In mid-2025, Airlink finalized agreements to lease 10 new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, signaling a dual strategy of maintaining current reliability while investing in future efficiency.
The decision by Airlink to purchase aircraft specifically for “part-out” purposes underscores the severity of the current aftermarket supply chain crisis. For regional operators, the inability to source engines or landing gear can ground viable aircraft for months. By internalizing the supply chain through the acquisition of whole aircraft, Airlink is effectively buying insurance against downtime.
From a lessor’s perspective, TrueNoord’s ability to sell older assets to operators for teardown represents an effective exit strategy for aircraft that may be nearing the end of their leasing viability in primary markets. We expect to see more of these “strategic spare” acquisitions in 2026 as airlines prioritize operational continuity over pure capacity growth.
TrueNoord Finalizes Sale of Two Embraer E190s to South Africa’s Airlink
Strategic Acquisition for Fleet Support
Transaction Details and Partners
Deepening Regional Partnerships
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: TrueNoord
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Delta Air Lines Chooses GE GEnx Engines for Boeing 787-10 Fleet
Delta Air Lines selects GE Aerospace GEnx-1B engines for 30 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, including spare engines and long-term support starting in 2031.
This article is based on an official press release from GE Aerospace and Delta Air Lines.
In a significant move for its future widebody operations, Delta Air Lines has selected GE Aerospace to power its incoming fleet of Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners. According to a joint announcement released on January 13, 2026, the carrier has chosen the GEnx-1B engine for an order comprising 30 firm aircraft and options for 30 additional jets.
The agreement extends beyond the initial hardware, encompassing spare engines and a comprehensive long-term services support contract. This selection marks a pivotal moment in the nearly 70-year partnership between the two companies, ensuring GE Aerospace remains a cornerstone of Delta’s international fleet strategy well into the next decade.
The newly announced deal secures propulsion for Delta’s latest widebody acquisition. The order covers 30 firm Boeing 787-10 aircraft, with deliveries scheduled to commence in 2031. Should Delta exercise its options for the additional 30 aircraft, the total scope of the agreement could cover up to 120 installed engines, exclusive of spares.
While specific financial terms were not disclosed in the press release, the inclusion of a long-term maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) agreement suggests a deep commitment to the GEnx platform. This “power-by-the-hour” style support is standard for major fleet renewals, ensuring predictable maintenance costs and high dispatch reliability.
Both companies highlighted the strategic importance of this renewal. Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Air Lines, emphasized the role of efficiency in the airline’s international expansion.
“GE Aerospace’s GEnx engines will enable us to connect our passengers to international destinations across the globe with greater efficiency and improved reliability and are foundational to our growth vision.”
, Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Air Lines
H. Lawrence Culp, Jr., Chairman and CEO of GE Aerospace, noted the historical depth of the relationship, which dates back to the Convair 880 in 1956. “For more than 60 years, GE Aerospace has been proud to partner with Delta Air Lines, and we’re honored the GEnx now will be underwing to support their international growth plans.”
, H. Lawrence Culp, Jr., Chairman and CEO of GE Aerospace
The GEnx-1B is currently the best-selling engine for the Boeing 787 family, holding approximately two-thirds of the market share for the airframe. Delta’s selection aligns with industry trends favoring the engine’s maturity and performance metrics.
According to technical data referenced in the announcement and industry reports, the GEnx-1B offers several key advantages over previous generation powerplants:
This order represents a notable shift in Delta’s recent procurement strategy. Over the past decade, the Atlanta-based carrier has leaned heavily on Airbus for its widebody renewal, investing significantly in the A330neo and A350 families. The introduction of the Boeing 787-10, and specifically the choice of GE engines, reintroduces balance to the fleet.
By operating both Airbus and Boeing widebodies, Delta mitigates the risk of supply chain delays or certification issues that might affect a single manufacturer. Furthermore, the 787-10 is optimized for high-capacity, mid-range international routes (such as Transatlantic and South American corridors), complementing the ultra-long-range capabilities of the A350-1000. The decision to pair the airframe with GE engines avoids the durability challenges that have historically affected the competing Rolls-Royce Trent 1000, signaling a preference for operational stability over other factors.
Sources: PR Newswire / GE Aerospace
Delta Air Lines Selects GE Aerospace GEnx Engines for New Boeing 787-10 Fleet
Agreement Details and Delivery Timeline
Executive Commentary
Technical Specifications and Performance
AirPro News Analysis: Strategic Fleet Diversification
Sources
Photo Credit: GE Aerospace
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Boeing Reports 72 Percent Increase in 2025 Deliveries and Tops Airbus in Orders
Boeing delivered 600 commercial airplanes in 2025, a 72% increase, and secured more net new orders than Airbus for the first time in seven years.
This article is based on an official press release from The Boeing Company and additional market data.
The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] announced today a significant rebound in its operational performance for the fourth quarter of 2025, delivering 160 commercial airplanes to close out the year. According to the official press release, this surge brings the manufacturer’s full-year total to 600 commercial aircraft, marking a 72% increase over the previous year and the highest annual delivery volume since 2018.
The announcement signals a potential turning point for the aerospace giant under the leadership of CEO Kelly Ortberg. While Boeing’s total delivery numbers for 2025 still trail rival Airbus, which delivered 793 jets, Boeing successfully secured more net new orders than its European competitor for the first time in seven years. Market data indicates that Boeing stock rose approximately 2.25% in trading following the news.
The commercial sector was the primary driver of Boeing’s fourth-quarter performance. Data released by the company highlights a stabilization of the 737 MAX program, which had previously faced production halts and labor strikes. In the fourth quarter alone, Boeing delivered 117 737 jets, a sharp increase from the 36 delivered during the same period in 2024.
For the full year of 2025, the 737 program accounted for 447 deliveries, up 68.7% from 265 in 2024. The widebody segment also saw improvement, particularly with the 787 Dreamliner. Boeing delivered 27 Dreamliners in Q4, bringing the annual total to 88, the highest level for the program since 2019.
While the commercial division grabbed headlines with its volume, Boeing’s Defense, Space & Security unit reported stable growth. The company delivered 37 defense units in the fourth quarter, contributing to a full-year total of 131 deliveries, compared to 112 in 2024.
Key defense programs included the AH-64 Apache, which saw a combined total of 61 deliveries (new and remanufactured) for the year. The KC-46 Tanker program also ramped up, delivering 14 units in 2025 compared to 10 the previous year. However, fighter jet deliveries saw mixed results, with F-15 deliveries dropping to 9 for the year, down from 14 in 2024.
Industry analysts note that while Boeing is still working to match Airbus in total output, the order book tells a different story regarding airline confidence. In 2025, Boeing secured 1,075 net new orders, surpassing Airbus’s 889. This victory in the sales race is attributed to major recent deals, including a historic order from Alaska Airlines for 737-10s and Delta Air Lines’ decision to modernize its widebody fleet with 60 Boeing 787 Dreamliners.
The 2025 delivery figures suggest that Boeing’s “industrial excellence” strategy, emphasized by CEO Kelly Ortberg since August 2024, is beginning to stabilize the factory floor. The ability to deliver 63 jets in December alone, including 44 MAX aircraft, indicates that production rates are recovering toward targets that were previously capped by regulators. However, delivery numbers are primarily operational metrics. The true financial impact of this surge will be revealed during the Q4 earnings call scheduled for January 28, 2026. Investors will likely look for confirmation that this delivery volume is translating into positive free cash flow, a critical milestone for the company’s debt reduction efforts.
How many planes did Boeing deliver in 2025? Did Boeing deliver more planes than Airbus in 2025? When will Boeing release its financial results? Sources: Boeing, Investing.com
Boeing Reports Surge in Q4 Deliveries, Tops Airbus in 2025 Net Orders
Commercial Aviation Recovery
Summary of Commercial Deliveries (FY 2025)
Defense and Space Operations
Market Context and Order Book
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Boeing delivered a total of 600 commercial airplanes and 131 defense units in 2025.
No. Airbus delivered 793 commercial jets in 2025, retaining the lead in total deliveries. However, Boeing surpassed Airbus in net new orders.
Boeing is scheduled to release its fourth-quarter financial results on January 28, 2026.
Photo Credit: Boeing
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