Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Finnair Orders Up to 46 Embraer E195-E2 Jets for Fleet Modernization
Finnair commits to acquiring up to 46 Embraer E195-E2 jets to modernize its fleet, improve passenger comfort, and meet sustainability targets.
This article is based on an official press release from Embraer.
On March 23, 2026, Finnair and Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer announced a comprehensive fleet modernization agreement. According to an official press release from Embraer, the Finnish flag carrier has committed to acquiring up to 46 Embraer E195-E2 regional jets. This strategic move is designed to replace Finnair’s aging short-haul fleet and support the airline’s profitable growth trajectory across Europe.
The agreement marks a significant milestone for the 102-year-old airline. We note that this acquisition is not only a major financial investment but also a critical component of Finnair’s broader sustainability and passenger experience upgrades. The new aircraft order will be integrated into Embraer’s first-quarter 2026 backlog.
The comprehensive order consists of 18 firm aircraft, 16 options, and 12 purchase rights. Based on supplementary industry research, deliveries are scheduled to commence in the second half of 2027, specifically targeting the third quarter. The initial rollout of the firm orders will see three aircraft delivered in 2027, followed by six in 2028, and another six in 2029.
To support the new fleet, Finnair has concurrently signed agreements with RTX’s Pratt & Whitney. This secondary contract covers the purchase of spare PW1900G GTF engines and long-term maintenance services, ensuring operational reliability for the new E2 jets as they enter service.
Finnair has selected a passenger-friendly configuration for the E195-E2. The aircraft will feature 134 seats in a single-class layout. Notably, the 2-2 seating configuration eliminates middle seats entirely. According to the manufacturer’s press release, the cabin will also be equipped with modern amenities, including high-speed internet connectivity and USB chargers, representing a major upgrade for European short-haul business and leisure travelers.
A primary driver behind Finnair’s selection of the E195-E2 is the aircraft’s environmental performance. The Embraer press release highlights that the E195-E2 is up to 35 percent more fuel-efficient than the previous generation E190s currently operated by the airline. Furthermore, it is recognized as the quietest single-aisle jet available today, boasting a noise footprint at take-off that is approximately 60 to 63 percent smaller than current E190s, and 11 percent quieter than the competing Airbus A220.
“This is one of the largest investments in Finnair’s 102-year-old history… Importantly, this investment also reduces our CO2 footprint, advancing our climate targets,” stated Finnair CEO Turkka Kuusisto in the company release.
These efficiency gains are mandatory for Finnair’s environmental roadmap. In October 2024, the airline set a science-based target (validated by the SBTi) to reduce its carbon emissions intensity by 34.5 percent by 2033, compared to a 2023 baseline. Because SBTi rules require airlines to decarbonize within their own operations without relying on carbon offsetting, investing in highly fuel-efficient aircraft like the E195-E2 is essential for Finnair to achieve its roughly 13 percent absolute emissions reduction goal. The new E195-E2 aircraft are planned to be operated by Nordic Regional Airlines (Norra), a 60/40 joint venture between Danish Air Transport and Finnair. Norra currently operates a fleet of 12 older-generation Embraer E190s and 12 ATR 72-500 turboprops.
To complement the new E2s, Finnair is executing a mixed fleet strategy. Recent industry research indicates the airline is increasing its existing E190 fleet from 12 to 18 aircraft via the second-hand market, enabled by a new collective labor agreement. Additionally, Finnair is acquiring up to 12 used Airbus A320/A321ceo aircraft to replace older narrowbody jets, addressing an average fleet age of 15.4 years.
“Demand has been stronger than it has been historically, but we have seen the supply loosen up in the last few months,” noted Christine Rovelli, Finnair’s Chief Revenue Officer, regarding the mixed acquisition strategy.
This dual approach of purchasing next-generation regional jets alongside used current-generation narrowbodies highlights a pragmatic capital expenditure strategy. Following the financial strain of the pandemic and the operational challenges caused by the closure of Russian airspace, which severely impacted Finnair’s Asian route efficiency, the airline is pivoting confidently toward European network expansion. By securing the E195-E2, Finnair protects its sustainability mandates, while the used aircraft acquisitions provide immediate capacity relief at a lower capital cost.
When will Finnair receive its first Embraer E195-E2? Who will operate the new aircraft? What is the seating capacity of the new jets?
Fleet Modernization and Order Details
The Passenger Experience
Sustainability and Climate Targets
Meeting SBTi Goals
Broader Fleet Strategy and Operations
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Deliveries of the firm orders are scheduled to begin in the second half of 2027, with three aircraft expected that year.
The E195-E2 jets are planned to be operated by Nordic Regional Airlines (Norra), Finnair’s regional joint-venture partner.
The aircraft will be configured with 134 seats in a 2-2 layout, meaning there will be no middle seats.
Sources
Photo Credit: Embraer