From one to three: Airlink accelerates Embraer E195-E2 deliveries
October 3, 2025
Airlink has rapidly expanded its next-generation fleet with the acceptance of three Embraer E195-E2 jets in a single handover phase, just weeks after taking delivery of its first aircraft of the type.
The Johannesburg-based carrier received the jets from lessor Azorra at Embraer’s São José dos Campos facility, marking the first tranche of ten E195-E2s on lease. The aircraft are registered ZS-ARF, ZS-BJW and ZS-LKA.
From one to three: Deliveries gather pace
Airlink’s first E195-E2, ZS-ARF, departed São José dos Campos on 23 September and flew direct to Cape Town before continuing on to Johannesburg. The second, ZS-BJW, followed the same route on 27 September. The third aircraft, ZS-LKA, is scheduled to be ferried overnight on 1–2 October, with arrival in South Africa tomorrow.
All three ferry flights are being handled by the same crew: Airlink’s Chief Pilot, Captain Jaco Henning, and First Officer Dean Nicholas, underscoring the streamlined training and type commonality that the E2 family offers.
The triple acceptance means Airlink will be able to put three 136-seat E195-E2s into service by December, in time for the peak summer holiday season. The aircraft will primarily strengthen high-demand domestic routes such as Johannesburg–Cape Town, while the extended range of the aircraft will allow Airlink to explore new connections across sub-Saharan Africa.
E195-E2 fleet commonality brings efficiency for Airlink
Airlink CEO De Villiers Engelbrecht said the aircraft mark a pivotal milestone in the airline’s 33-year history:
“The larger and more capable E195-E2s unlock efficiencies and cost savings thanks to their high commonality with our existing E-Jets. Their similar flight decks, operating procedures and handling ensure a streamlined entry into service.”
The airline has already begun training pilots, cabin crew and engineers for the E2, while its maintenance facilities are being upgraded to support the Pratt & Whitney PW1900G geared turbofan engines that power the type.
Azorra and Embraer support Airlink’s E195-E2 expansion
John Evans, CEO of Azorra, said the triple delivery marked “an exciting milestone in our partnership with Airlink”.
Embraer Commercial Aviation CEO Arjan Meijer added: “The E195-E2 is the most efficient single-aisle jet in its class and the perfect fit for Airlink’s ambitions in Southern Africa.”
Airlink already operates an all-Embraer fleet, and the addition of three E195-E2s in quick succession accelerates its transition to the latest generation.
Once all ten aircraft are delivered, Airlink will operate one of the largest E2 fleets outside Brazil, cementing its status as Southern Africa’s premium regional carrier and highlighting Embraer’s growing presence in the African market.
