AMSTERDAM - Airlink is acquiring five E-Jets, including three E170s and two E190s, from Embraer subsidiary ECC Leasing. The carrier is scheduled to begin taking delivery of the aircraft in the first half of 2017.

Airlink already operates a large fleet of Embraer ERJ series aircraft and, this past December, began to add 11 ERJ 140s to the fleet. By the end of 2017, the airline will be operating 30 ERJs, comprising all three types: the ERJ 135, ERJ 140 and ERJ 145.

Airlink CEO Rodger Foster said, "This is the beginning of the implementation of a well-planned growth and modernization strategy for Airlink that includes replacing our current fleet of Avro RJ85s over the next three years. The strategy calls for a total of 13 E-Jets, and we are in the process of sourcing the balance of the fleet requirement -- an additional eight E190s -- from the market. The unique performance characteristics of the E-Jet family will enable Airlink to operate within the challenging environment of the region, including short field and 'hot and high' operations, while managing capacity and providing for growth."

Foster added, "The E190's ETOPS (Extended Twin Engine Operations) capability and range presents Airlink with new market opportunities to address isolated destinations that were previously beyond our reach and, in some instances, that have never enjoyed the privilege of reliable scheduled air services. Embraer has proven to be an excellent partner for Airlink on our ERJ fleet, and we look forward to the continuation of superb customer support as we enter a new chapter of growth with the E-Jets."

"Welcoming another operator to the E-Jet family is always a great endorsement of our aircraft and the Embraer experience," said Simon Newitt, Embraer Commercial Aviation Vice President for Africa, Latin America & Portugal. "We are very proud that Airlink will now become the first South African operator of the type."

Airlink connects 36 destinations in nine African countries. It currently carries more than 1.4 million passengers on 44,800 flights annually. Airlink's main hub is Johannesburg.

Source: Embraer