At the Ethiopian Air Forum in Addis Ababa, Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embler presented an attractive case of correct sizing and modernising in the region's fleet, highlighting the conversion of the E-Jets E2 series and e-freight as a game-changing solution for Africa's rapidly evolving aviation market.
Mohamed Khalid, regional director of Embraer's airline marketing in the Middle East and Africa, led a presentation highlighting how Embraer's strategic product offerings are perfectly in line with the continent's demand for efficient, scalable, sustainable air transport solutions.
Proven player in Global Aviation
With over 130 commercial aviation customers in over 70 countries, Embler is the third largest aircraft manufacturer in the world and is the dominant force in the 70-150 seat segment. The company currently uses more than 2,000 aircraft worldwide, achieving a massively growing footprint across Africa.
In early 2025, the Embrea aircraft are operating in 22 African countries, with 96 electronic jets flying in the region, with 22 more being ordered. In particular, Embraer is the top OEM in the Middle East and Africa categories, directing 29% of regional aircraft delivery in the 150-seat segment.
E2 Series: Right size for Africa
One important message from Embraer's forum session was that African Airlines must “right-size” its fleet to meet the realities and future growth of the current market.
The E190-E2 and E195-E2 jets, stars of Embraer's next-generation E2 family, offer unparalleled economics for short-to-medium-range routes. The E190-E2, which can seat around 114 passengers and the E195-E2, up to 146, offer 25% better fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor. This gives you an ideal alternative for aging and less efficient narrow bods and turboprops that dominate many African fleets.
Embraer said that while these aircraft reduce costs per trip while offering similar seat mile costs to larger narrower bodies such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737, as Azur founder David Neilman once said, “You can imagine seat mile costs like the A320neo, but only 136 seats.
Frontline sustainability and efficiency
Environmental concerns are increasingly driving airline purchase decisions. Embraer's E2 aircraft are the quietest and cleanest jets in the category. Compared to the older E190, the E190-E2 has a reduced CO2 emission per seat by up to 25%, and is certified as the Noise Standards in Chapter 14.
With optimized wings, fly-by-wire control and aerodynamic improvements, the E2 Series represents a paradigm shift in single-passage aviation rather than just an upgrade. When operating from a high-altitude airport, like Addis Ababa, E2 aircraft offers excellent range features and fly up to 2,800 nautical miles while maintaining performance.
Cargo potential: e-freighter vision
In response to Africa's growing cargo needs, Embraer has also highlighted the new e-Freighter program. The E190F and E195F, converted from E1 passenger aircraft, are designed to bridge the gap between turboprop cargo ships and large narrow body cargo ships such as the 737-800BCF.
These appropriately sized jets offer reduced operating costs, speed speed, and more flexible load options, making them ideal for e-commerce distribution and freight routes across Africa. Embraer believes the ingredients are ripe for effective conversion programs as more than 450 E1s reach over 10 years of age worldwide.
The relationship between real-world support and Africa
The E2 series has received extensive acclaim from operators. Royal Jordan, KLM, Airpeace (Nigeria) and Azur are just a few of the 18 airlines currently flying the E2S. Air Peace President Allen Onyema noted that e-Jets “diversify our routes and provide the connectivity that Africa demands.”
The company's modular cabin design, which was praised for its passenger comfort and tranquility, also won a Crystal Cabin Award for its visionary interior design. In particular, E2 operates from a constrained airport, such as London City, and demonstrates its ability to handle short runways and noise-sensitive environments.
Wake-up call for African Airlines?
The message from Embraer is clear. Fleet updates are no longer an option and are essential. African airlines suffer from poor fleet matching and poorly performed routes. Embraer's E2 jet offers African Airlines a viable path to sustainable profitability through cost optimization and new route opportunities.
Embler's strategy lies on the idea that Africa's growth is not only “big” but also “better conformity.” Unparalleled fuel efficiency, maintenance savings and passenger comfort make the E2 family the most sustained secret in local aviation.
