E2 family keeps Royal Jordanian on track for growth
Royal Jordanian has become the first Embraer E195-E2 operator in the Middle East with the delivery of two aircraft early this year. The airline is pursuing its fleet expansion and modernisation plan, despite geopolitical tensions.
The full agreement, announced in May 2023, concerns eight aircraft – six aircraft from Azorra’s existing backlog with Embraer, and two further E195-E2 firm orders from the airline directly with Embraer.
“We’re confident Royal Jordanian will soon see the environmental and economic advantages of operating these new E2 aircraft, while offering superior levels of passenger comfort,” said John Evans, CEO and founder of Azorra.
The E2 family of aircraft is geared to strengthen Royal Jordanian’s strategic aims by complementing its larger narrow body aircraft. According to Samer Majali, vice chairman and CEO of Royal Jordanian, this will help meet “capacity to demand, reduce operating costs and carbon emissions, while delivering a significant upgrade to passenger experience and comfort”.
Arjan Meijer, president and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, underlined that with the E2 family of advanced-generation E-Jets, Royal Jordanian can simultaneously realise its growth, profitability and sustainability ambitions.
In line with its widebody fleet development strategy, Jordan’s flag carrier ordered four Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner jets at the Dubai Airshow. It also reconfirmed a previous order for two 787-9s, bringing its total 787-9 backlog to six.
"This move aligns seamlessly with our broader strategy of fleet modernisation, emphasising fuel efficiency, sustainability and passenger comfort. As we embark on this journey, we are confident that the Dreamliner's cutting-edge technology will play a pivotal role in elevating our operational capabilities," said Majali.
Building on Royal Jordanian's fleet of seven 787-8 aircraft, this additional member of the Dreamliner family will enable the airline to fly more passengers and enhance its cargo capacity.
Looking ahead, Royal Jordanian remains optimistic about continued growth while acknowledging potential risks stemming from external factors that are impacting demand and operating costs.
As CEO Majali points out, the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza is causing cancellations of reservations. But the Royal Jordanian team looks at its future with confidence.
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