Virgin Australia Group has marked a significant milestone in its fleet modernization program. The airline’s first Embraer E190-E2 jet landed in Perth after a remarkable 25,000-kilometre trip from Embraer’s factory in São José dos Campos, Brazil.
This aircraft, the 1900th E-Jet delivered globally by Embraer, made stops in Texas, Los Angeles, Hawaii, Fiji, and Canberra before arriving at its new home base in Western Australia.
Named Coral Bay, the aircraft taxied into Virgin Australia Regional Airlines’ (VARA) cutting-edge hangar at Perth Airport, where maintenance for the airline’s E190-E2 fleet will take place.
This state-of-the-art facility underscores VARA’s commitment to operational excellence in the region.
A Game-Changer for Western Australia
The E190-E2 will primarily serve VARA’s charter flights across Western Australia, catering to the region’s unique travel needs. Its dual-class cabin, features a Business Class—a first for WA charter operations. It offers flexibility to operate regular passenger services during quieter charter periods.
The aircraft’s two-plus-two seating layout eliminates middle seats, ensuring comfort for all passengers. With generous overhead bin space, in-seat power, and high-speed Wi-Fi set to be installed from early 2026, the E190-E2 delivers a premium travel experience.
Nick Rohrlach, Group Executive of Virgin Australia Regional Airlines, hailed the aircraft’s arrival as a transformative moment. “This is a landmark day for aviation in Western Australia,” he said.
“The E190-E2 is a game-changer—more fuel-efficient, quieter, and more comfortable than any other aircraft in the state’s charter market.”
“It will enhance the travel experience for our charter clients and allow us to flexibly support commercial routes within Western Australia. It also includes Darwin, Kalgoorlie, Karratha, Port Hedland, and Broome.”
Rohrlach added that as VARA expands its E190-E2 fleet, the airline could explore deploying the aircraft across its national network. This would serve to further strengthen its operations.
Sustainable Flight Operations
The E190-E2 stands out for its environmental credentials. It is 30% more fuel-efficient than VARA’s retiring Fokker 100 fleet and boasts the lowest noise profile in its class.
Certified for up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and capable of operating on 100% SAF, the aircraft is future-ready, aligning with global sustainability goals.
“This is the start of an exciting new chapter for Virgin Australia Regional Airlines, a key player in Western Australia’s aviation landscape for over 60 years,” Rohrlach said.
“Seeing Coral Bay outside our new maintenance hangar in Perth symbolizes our long-term commitment to the region.”
Credits: Virgin Australia
