Airlink, South Africa’s full-service airline, has finalised a lease agreement with US-based lessor Azorra for ten brand-new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, with first delivery expected later this year, with all aircraft scheduled to arrive by 2027.
The agreement follows Airlink’s previously announced selection of the E195-E2, the latest and most efficient variant in Embraer’s E-Jet family. The airline, headquartered in Johannesburg, currently operates a fleet of 68 aircraft and has been a long-time operator of Embraer models since 2001.
Azorra, a Fort Lauderdale-based leasing and asset management firm, will supply the new twin-engine passenger jets directly from Embraer’s manufacturing facilities in Brazil. Each aircraft will be configured in a comfortable two-by-two cabin layout, seating up to 136 passengers, with no middle seats — a hallmark of Embraer’s regional aircraft design.
The E195-E2’s greater capacity and extended range will allow Airlink to enhance its presence on high-density regional routes and explore new destinations across sub-Saharan Africa. The aircraft’s efficiency and improved environmental performance also align with Airlink’s long-term operational goals.
Airlink is expected to benefit from notable cost savings due to the high degree of commonality between its current Embraer fleet and the incoming E2 models. The similar flightdeck design, operating procedures and handling characteristics will streamline pilot training and facilitate a smooth entry into service, helping to minimise disruptions and optimise operational readiness.
