Finnair Selects the Embraer E2 as the Future of Its Narrowbody Fleet

‍HELSINKI — Finnair (AY) has chosen the Embraer E195-E2 to compose its future narrowbody fleet. The order for up to 46 units includes 18 firm, 16 options, and 12 purchase rights for Embraer’s largest commercial jet, which is expected to join AY in the third quarter of 2027.

Three units are expected to be delivered in 2027, six in 2028, and six in 2029. Each aircraft will be equipped with USB chargers, high-speed internet connectivity, and comfortable seats. Finnair’s partner Norra will operate the E2s across AY’s short and medium-haul network.

Finnair CEO Turkka Kuusisto mentioned the airline’s satisfaction with the E2 performance and CO2 reduction.  Regarding the reason to add the E2 to its fleet, AY commented in a press release: “Selected for its efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort, the E195-E2 provides over 30% fuel efficiency per seat, in comparison to the previous generation E190-E1 aircraft, and a significant reduction in external noise footprint.”

The E2 will allow AY to cover the entire European continent thanks to its range. The airline has also signed agreements with RTX’s Pratt & Whitney for the purchase of spare engines and maintenance services for the PW1900G GTF engines that power Embraer E2. The aircraft will be configured in a 134-seat layout.

A mixed fleet in the works

With the order, AY finalizes its long-term narrowbody fleet strategy. The order comes a few weeks after AY hosted its first international media day since 2019, where AY stated the future of its narrowbody fleet was “work-in-progress”. In addition to the E2s, AY will also acquire up to 12 Airbus A320/321ceos from the used aircraft market. The used market will allow AY to continue its network, thanks to the early delivery dates.

Finnair’s Chief Revenue Officer, Christine Rovelli, told the media audience during a press conference today: “Demand has been stronger than it has been historically, but we have seen the supply loosen up in the last few months. We are feeling confident about our ability to source the aircraft we would need, given the amount of supply we are aware of in the market today.”

“A mix of larger and smaller narrow-bodies allows us to tap into the growth opportunities in our markets in a flexible and efficient manner,” says Kuusisto. The exact number of the planned A320/321ceos and their delivery times will be specified as preparations proceed.

Finnair is not concerned about the E2 engine performance since its deliveries will include performance improvements developed by Pratt & Whitney. 

Comments from Finnair, Embraer officials

“This is one of the largest investments in Finnair’s 102-year-old history, and a vital step in our strategy. The Embraer E2 will enable us to strengthen our European network and tap into the growth opportunities in the market, while also enhancing our competitiveness through reliability, versatility and high degree of customer comfort. Importantly, this investment also reduces our CO2 footprint, advancing our climate targets,” says Finnair CEO Turkka Kuusisto.

“Embraer is honored to support Finnair’s exciting next chapter,” said Arjan Meijer, President & CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation. “The E195‑E2’s unique combination of efficiency, comfort, and reliability delivers meaningful value – lower fuel burn, lower CO₂, and superior economics. We look forward to helping Finnair modernize its short‑haul fleet to better match demand, reduce emissions, and unlock growth.”