Commercial Aviation
Embraer and Airlink Expand Component Pool Program for E2 Jets
Embraer and Airlink deepen partnership by including new E195-E2 jets in Pool Program to improve fleet reliability in Southern Africa.
In the world of regional aviation, efficiency and reliability are the bedrock of success. Airlines operating in this space require not just modern aircraft but also robust support systems to ensure their fleets remain operational and profitable. This is particularly true in regions with vast and challenging geographies, such as Southern Africa. A recent development highlights this dynamic, as Brazilian aerospace giant Embraer and Southern Africa’s premier regional airline, Airlink, have expanded their long-standing partnership. The new agreement brings Airlink’s incoming fleet of Embraer E195-E2 jets into Embraer’s comprehensive Component Pool Program, a move that underscores a shared commitment to operational excellence and future growth.
This collaboration is more than a simple service agreement; it represents a strategic alignment between an aircraft manufacturer and an airline operator. For Airlink, it secures a streamlined and cost-effective maintenance and component pipeline for its latest-generation aircraft. For Embraer, it solidifies its position as a key partner in Africa’s aviation landscape and showcases the value of its after-sales support services. As Airlink continues to modernize its fleet and expand its network, this expanded support structure is a critical enabler, ensuring that the Airlines can maximize the potential of its new, more efficient E2 jets. The deal reflects a mature relationship built on years of cooperation, with Airlink operating an all-Embraer fleet.
At the core of this expanded partnership is the Embraer Pool Program. This is not merely a parts-on-demand service; it is a comprehensive component support solution designed to optimize airline operations. The program functions by providing member airlines with access to a large, centralized stock of components. This model allows airlines like Airlink to significantly reduce their own on-site inventory, which in turn lowers warehousing needs and frees up capital that would otherwise be tied up in spare parts. The primary goal is to enhance fleet reliability and availability by ensuring that necessary components are readily accessible, minimizing aircraft downtime.
The agreement specifically covers ten new Embraer E195-E2 jets that Airlink is acquiring through lease agreements with the lessor Azorra. This is a significant expansion, as Airlink already utilizes the Pool Program for its existing fleet. With the inclusion of the new E2s, the program will now support a total of 78 aircraft in Airlink’s fleet. This level of integration demonstrates a deep level of trust in Embraer’s support ecosystem. The program operates on a framework of guaranteed performance levels, providing Airlink with a degree of certainty and predictability in its maintenance operations, which is crucial for an airline that operates an extensive network across 15 countries in Southern and East Africa.
The practical benefits for Airlink are substantial. By leveraging Embraer’s extensive inventory and logistics network, the airline can achieve savings on component repair and overhaul. Instead of managing complex repair cycles for individual parts, Airlink can rely on Embraer to provide serviceable components when needed. This allows the airline’s maintenance team to focus on core operational tasks, rather than being bogged down by the complexities of component supply chain management. The result is a more agile and resilient operation, better equipped to handle the demands of its 67-route network.
“Expanding the Embraer component inventory agreement to cover our new Embraer E195-E2s will provide us with the security we need as we deploy the aircraft. It will help us achieve the maximum operational, commercial and economic benefits we expect to derive from the new additions to our fleet.”, de Villiers Engelbrecht, CEO of Airlink.
The relationship between Embraer and Airlink is a long-standing one, dating back to 2001. Airlink’s decision to operate an all-Embraer fleet of 70 jet aircraft is a testament to the suitability of these aircraft for the diverse and demanding routes found in Southern Africa. The addition of the E195-E2 jets represents the next phase of Airlink’s fleet modernization strategy. The E2 family of aircraft offers significant improvements in fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and lower noise levels compared to previous-generation jets, aligning with modern environmental and operational standards.
This fleet renewal is not just about new hardware; it’s about building a sustainable and competitive future. By ensuring the operational reliability of these new assets through the expanded Pool Program, Airlink is positioning itself to strengthen its role as a leading regional carrier. The airline’s extensive network connects 47 destinations, including remote locations like St Helena Island, playing a vital role in the economic and social connectivity of the region. The efficiency and reliability of its fleet are therefore paramount to its continued success and the service it provides to its passengers.
From Embraer’s perspective, this agreement reinforces the success of its Services & Support division. The aerospace industry is increasingly recognizing that the value proposition extends beyond the initial sale of an aircraft. Comprehensive after-sales support, like the Pool Program, is a critical differentiator that fosters long-term customer relationships. By providing a service that directly contributes to an airline’s operational efficiency and profitability, Embraer ensures its aircraft remain competitive throughout their lifecycle. This deal with a key African partner highlights the global reach and effectiveness of Embraer’s support solutions. “We are proud to support the E2 operations at Airlink, a flagship example of innovation and efficiency in regional aviation. Embraer deeply values the trust Airlink has placed in our aircraft and services, and we remain dedicated to empowering their success with the most advanced solutions in the industry.”, Carlos Naufel, President and CEO of Embraer Services & Support.
The expanded agreement between Embraer and Airlink is a clear indicator of the strategic direction for both companies. For Airlink, it’s a calculated move to de-risk its expansion and modernization efforts, ensuring its new E195-E2 fleet can be deployed with confidence and operate at peak efficiency. This focus on operational stability allows the airline to concentrate on its core mission: connecting Southern Africa. For Embraer, it’s a powerful endorsement of its E2 platform and its integrated services model, demonstrating its commitment to supporting its airline partners’ growth and success in a competitive global market.
Looking ahead, this partnership serves as a model for how aircraft manufacturers and airlines can collaborate to navigate the complexities of modern aviation. As the industry continues to evolve, with a growing emphasis on sustainability, efficiency, and reliability, such integrated support solutions will become increasingly vital. The success of the Embraer-Airlink collaboration in Africa will likely be watched closely by other regional carriers around the world, showcasing a pathway to sustainable growth built on a foundation of advanced aircraft and world-class support.
Question: What is the Embraer Pool Program? Question: How many Airlink aircraft are covered by this new agreement? Question: Why is this partnership significant for aviation in Southern Africa? Sources: Embraer News
Embraer and Airlink Deepen Ties with E2 Jet Component Program
Strengthening the Backbone of Operations: The Pool Program
A Partnership Driving Regional Aviation Forward
Conclusion: A Blueprint for Future Growth
FAQ
Answer: The Embraer Pool Program is a comprehensive component support service that provides airlines with access to a large stock of components. It is designed to optimize fleet reliability by reducing inventory costs and minimizing aircraft downtime through guaranteed performance levels.
Answer: The new agreement adds ten new Embraer E195-E2 jets to the program. This brings the total number of Airlink aircraft supported by the Embraer Pool Program to 78.
Answer: It supports the fleet modernization of Airlink, a key regional airline, enhancing its operational reliability and efficiency. This helps ensure consistent and dependable air travel across the airline’s extensive network of 47 destinations in 15 countries, which is vital for the region’s connectivity and economy.
Photo Credit: Embraer
Route Development
SAS and TAROM Codeshare Connects Scandinavia and Romania in 2026
SAS and TAROM announce a codeshare agreement effective February 2026, enhancing connectivity between Scandinavia and Romania with SkyTeam benefits.
This article is based on an official press release from SAS Group.
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and TAROM, the flag carrier of Romania, have announced a comprehensive codeshare agreement set to commence on February 9, 2026. The partnership aims to restore and enhance connectivity between Northern Europe and Romania following SAS’s strategic shift to the SkyTeam alliance.
According to the official announcement from SAS Group, the agreement will allow passengers to book single-ticket journeys between the two regions by utilizing major European transit hubs. This move integrates TAROM, a long-standing SkyTeam member, more deeply with SAS, which officially joined the alliance on September 1, 2024.
The collaboration addresses a significant gap in network connectivity, offering business and leisure travelers seamless baggage check-through and reciprocal loyalty benefits. Paul Verhagen, EVP & Chief Commercial Officer at SAS, emphasized the strategic value of the deal in a statement:
“This new partnership with TAROM marks an important step in enhancing connectivity between Scandinavia and Romania. By combining our networks and offering smooth transfers via key European hubs, we are giving our customers more choice, flexibility, and convenience.”
Rather than launching direct flights immediately, the airlines are leveraging a “virtual hub” strategy. According to the press release, the codeshare will route traffic through four key intermediate airports: Amsterdam (AMS), Brussels (BRU), Frankfurt (FRA), and Prague (PRG).
Under the terms of the agreement:
This structure allows the airlines to offer competitive travel times and frequency without dedicating aircraft to direct point-to-point routes, which are currently dominated by low-cost carriers.
This agreement is a direct consequence of the major airline alliance realignment that occurred in late 2024. When SAS departed Star Alliance to join SkyTeam, it lost its traditional connectivity to Eastern Europe provided by partners like Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines. Partnering with TAROM allows SAS to rebuild its footprint in the region using SkyTeam infrastructure.
For TAROM, the deal unlocks access to the high-yield Scandinavian market. The Romanian carrier is currently in the midst of a fleet modernization program, transitioning from aging aircraft to new Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets expected to arrive in late 2025 and 2026. By utilizing SAS for the northern leg of the journey, TAROM can expand its network reach while conserving its own metal for other high-demand routes. Narcis Obeadă, Commercial Director at TAROM, hinted at further expansion in the company’s statement:
“In the coming period, TAROM will announce new commercial agreements, in line with the company’s mission to safely and efficiently connect Romania and Romanian culture to the international air transport network.”
Travelers utilizing the codeshare will benefit from the full suite of SkyTeam alliance perks. Members of SAS EuroBonus and TAROM’s loyalty program will be able to earn and redeem points on these codeshare flights. Additionally, premium passengers will gain access to SkyTeam lounges at transit hubs.
The passenger experience on the SAS leg of these journeys is also set for an upgrade. SAS is currently rolling out free high-speed Starlink WiFi across its fleet, a project the airline states will be widely available by late 2025.
The “Prague” Anomaly and Market Positioning
The inclusion of Prague (PRG) as a connection hub is a notable operational detail. Following the cessation of operations by Czech Airlines (CSA) as a standalone SkyTeam member in October 2024, Prague is no longer a primary alliance hub. The decision to route traffic through PRG suggests a strong bilateral interline capability between SAS and TAROM that functions independently of major alliance hub infrastructure.
Furthermore, this deal clearly targets the premium business segment. While low-cost carrier Wizz Air operates direct flights between Bucharest and Copenhagen, legacy carriers cannot compete purely on price. Instead, SAS and TAROM are competing on schedule flexibility (multiple daily frequencies via hubs) and corporate perks (lounge access, baggage interlining). With tourism to Romania rising, foreign arrivals were up 13.4% year-on-year as of August 2024, the demand for reliable, full-service connectivity is likely to grow.
When can I book these codeshare flights? Will my bags be checked through to the final destination? Do these flights count toward SkyTeam Elite status?
SAS and TAROM Launch Strategic Codeshare to Connect Scandinavia and Romania
Operational Details: The Virtual Hub Strategy
RO marketing code on SAS flights connecting Copenhagen, Oslo, and Stockholm to these intermediate hubs.SK marketing code on TAROM flights connecting Bucharest to the same hubs.Strategic Context: The SkyTeam Realignment
Passenger Experience and Loyalty
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The codeshare agreement is effective starting February 9, 2026. Tickets should be available through both airlines’ booking channels prior to this date.
Yes. Because this is a full codeshare agreement, passengers traveling on a single ticket (e.g., Bucharest to Stockholm via Amsterdam) will have their baggage checked through to the final destination.
Yes. Flights marketed and operated by SkyTeam members (SAS and TAROM) count toward tier status and accrue redeemable miles/points according to the rules of your specific loyalty program.
Sources
Photo Credit: SAS Group
Route Development
Starlux Airlines Launches Taipei to Prague Flights in 2026
Starlux Airlines will begin nonstop service between Taipei and Prague in August 2026, featuring its exclusive First Class on the Airbus A350-900.
This article summarizes reporting by One Mile at a Time and Ben Schlappig.
Starlux Airlines, the Taiwan-based luxury carrier, has officially announced its expansion into the European market. According to reporting by One Mile at a Time, the airline will launch nonstop service between Taipei (TPE) and Prague (PRG) beginning August 1, 2026. This development marks a major milestone for the “boutique” airline, representing its first long-haul destination outside of North America.
The new route signals a strategic shift for Starlux, which has previously focused its long-haul efforts exclusively on transpacific flights to the United States. By deploying its flagship Airbus A350-900 aircraft on this sector, the airline intends to compete directly with legacy carriers by offering a premium-heavy configuration, including its exclusive First Class cabin.
Based on schedule data cited by One Mile at a Time and confirmed by Prague Airport, the service will initially operate three times weekly. The flights are scheduled for Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with plans to increase frequency to four times weekly by adding Mondays starting in October 2026.
The operational schedule is as follows:
Jiří Pos, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Prague Airport, welcomed the new connection in a statement regarding the launch.
“We estimate that the route will be used by approximately 95,000 passengers in the first year of operation.”
, Jiří Pos, Chairman of Prague Airport
Travelers on this route will experience Starlux’s most premium hardware. One Mile at a Time notes that the Airbus A350-900 is the only aircraft type in the Starlux fleet equipped with a First Class cabin. The aircraft features a total of 306 seats across four distinct classes:
This deployment is significant because it brings a true First Class product to the Taipei-Prague market, distinguishing Starlux from competitors that may only offer Business Class on similar routes.
While major European hubs like London Heathrow or Paris Charles de Gaulle are often the first ports of call for Asian carriers expanding westward, Starlux’s choice of Prague is driven by specific economic factors rather than traditional tourism volume alone. The Semiconductor Connection “Prague is a long-favored destination for Taiwanese travelers, and growing semiconductor industry ties are expected to further drive demand…”
, Glenn Chai, CEO of Starlux Airlines
Competitive Landscape According to the reporting by Ben Schlappig, this route is likely just the beginning of Starlux’s European ambitions. The airline has indicated plans to launch a second European destination later in 2026. While not officially confirmed, industry reports suggest Milan (MXP) is a strong contender, which would align with the carrier’s Strategy of connecting high-value fashion and business hubs.
Starlux Airlines Selects Prague for First European Route
Flight Schedule and Operational Details
Onboard Experience: The Airbus A350-900
AirPro News Analysis: Strategic Market Positioning
We observe that the economic ties between Taiwan and the Czech Republic have deepened significantly due to the semiconductor industry. With major investments from Taiwanese tech giants in Central Europe, business travel demand is high. Starlux CEO Glenn Chai highlighted this synergy in his remarks regarding the Launch.
Starlux will face direct competition from China Airlines, which launched the same route in July 2023. However, Starlux appears to be betting on its “luxury boutique” brand identity to capture high-yield business travelers and premium leisure tourists who prioritize cabin comfort and newer aircraft hardware.
Future European Expansion
Frequently Asked Questions
Photo Credit: Starlux Airlines
Commercial Aviation
Airnorth Extends Fleet Support Agreement with Embraer
Airnorth renews its multi-year Embraer Pool Program contract to maintain fleet reliability and component support for E170 and E190 jets in remote regions.
This article is based on an official press release from Embraer.
Airnorth, Australia’s premier regional airline, has officially reaffirmed its long-standing relationship with Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer. On February 6, 2026, the companies announced a multi-year extension of a comprehensive fleet support agreement covering Airnorth’s operation of E170 and E190 jet aircraft.
According to the announcement, the renewed contract falls under the “Embraer Pool Program,” a service solution designed to streamline maintenance and component availability. This extension ensures that Airnorth’s fleet, which serves some of the most remote and challenging routes in Northern Australia and Timor-Leste, retains direct access to Embraer’s global technical support and component exchange network.
The primary focus of the agreement is to guarantee operational reliability for Airnorth’s jet fleet. Operating out of Darwin, the airline connects remote communities across the Northern Territory, Queensland, and Western Australia, as well as international services to Dili, Timor-Leste. In these isolated environments, supply chain logistics are critical; an “Aircraft on Ground” (AOG) event due to a missing part can cause significant disruptions.
Under the terms of the Pool Program, Airnorth gains access to a large stock of components at Embraer’s distribution centers. This arrangement allows the airline to minimize upfront capital investment in high-value repairable inventories. Instead of purchasing and warehousing expensive spare parts, Airnorth utilizes Embraer’s exchange service, converting fixed inventory costs into predictable operating expenses.
In a statement regarding the extension, Bradley Norrish, Airnorth’s Supply Chain Manager, emphasized the critical nature of OEM support for regional connectivity:
“Reliability is everything for a regional airline like Airnorth. This agreement gives us confidence that our Embraer fleet is backed by world-class OEM support, with fast access to components and technical expertise when and where we need it. It also allows us to manage costs more effectively… and keep our focus where it belongs, safely connecting communities.”
The relationship between the two entities spans nearly two decades. Airnorth was the launch customer for the Embraer E170 in Australia, introducing the type in 2007 to replace smaller turboprops on key routes. The airline later expanded its jet capacity by introducing the larger E190 to handle increased passenger volumes on trunk routes such as Darwin-Perth and Darwin-Cairns.
Carlos Naufel, President and CEO of Embraer Services & Support, highlighted the durability of the partnership in the company’s press release: “We are proud to mark a decade of partnership with Airnorth and appreciate their renewed confidence in Embraer through this agreement. Operating in some of the region’s most challenging conditions, Airnorth plays a vital role in connecting communities.”
From our perspective at AirPro News, this renewal highlights a broader trend among regional operators to lean heavily on OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) support programs as their fleets mature. The E170, while a robust airframe, has been out of production for some time as the industry shifts toward the E2 variants. By locking in a Pool Program agreement, Airnorth effectively insulates itself from the volatility of the secondary parts market.
Furthermore, for an airline owned by the Bristow Group, which specializes in vertical flight solutions and demands high safety standards, guaranteed component availability is a strategic necessity rather than a luxury. The ability to access a global pool of parts ensures that Airnorth can maintain high dispatch reliability despite operating in a region known for extreme weather and logistical isolation.
According to the details provided by Embraer, the Pool Program extension includes the following key services:
This agreement ensures that Airnorth remains a dominant force in Northern Australian aviation, capable of maintaining the rigorous schedules required to serve both resource sector clients and remote communities.
Sources:
Airnorth Secures Fleet Reliability with Extended Embraer Pool Program Deal
Enhancing Operational Stability in Remote Regions
A Decade of Partnership
AirPro News Analysis
Summary of Services
Photo Credit: Embraer
-
Commercial Aviation3 days agoAirbus Nears Launch of Stretched A350 Variant to Compete with Boeing 777X
-
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries4 days agoHarbor Diversified Sells Air Wisconsin Assets for $113.2 Million
-
MRO & Manufacturing4 days agoFedEx A300 Nose Gear Collapse During Maintenance at BWI Airport
-
Defense & Military4 days agoAirbus and Singapore Complete Manned-Unmanned Teaming Flight Trials
-
Sustainable Aviation6 days agoAsia-Pacific Aviation Growth and Sustainable Aviation Fuel Initiatives 2026