TrueNoord has announced the sale of two Embraer E190 aircraft to its existing customer, Airlink, in a transaction that highlights the lessor’s flexibility, commercial agility and close collaboration with operators navigating a complex global aviation environment. The aircraft were delivered to Airlink in December 2025, reinforcing a long-standing relationship between the two companies.
The transaction comes at a time when the aviation industry continues to face persistent global supply chain disruptions, particularly affecting the availability of engines and critical components. In response, Airlink plans to salvage parts from the E190 airframes and retain the engines as spares to support its extensive Embraer fleet. At the same time, the airline is assessing potential options for the future operation of the aircraft, keeping strategic flexibility firmly in view.
Richard Jacobs, Chief Commercial Officer at TrueNoord, emphasised that the sale reflects the company’s agility in remarketing assets and its commitment to supporting operators with bespoke solutions. This approach is echoed by Sales Director Maarten Grift, who noted that the transaction demonstrates TrueNoord’s focus on helping airline partners address immediate operational challenges while strengthening long-term fleet resilience. He highlighted the constructive collaboration with Airlink’s experienced team and the shared objective of navigating dynamic market conditions effectively.
Airlink operates the largest fleet of Embraer aircraft on the African continent, making the acquisition particularly significant. According to Airlink CEO de Villiers Engelbrecht, securing the two E190s is a strategic move designed to protect the reliability and availability of the airline’s fleet. By adding engines and components to its inventory, Airlink aims to mitigate the operational risks associated with supply chain constraints and maintain the high levels of service expected by its customers.
