New jets for KLM Cityhopper

Embraer has signed a firm order from Air France-KLM for 17 E-Jets to replace its ageing fleet of 19 Fokker F70s, joining 28 E190s already in service.

When the last aircraft is delivered, probably some time in 2018, it will bring to an end KLM’s long relationship with the Dutch aircraft company, now no longer trading, which dates back to 1920.

The deal includes an option to buy 17 additional E-Jets for KLM Cityhopper or Air France regional carrier Hop.

The Embraer E-Jet was first rolled out in December 2001 at São José dos Campos (Brazil) in the colours of Crossair, who was destined to fail before the initial delivery.  With up to 122 (2+2) passengers in its largest version it was a breakthrough for the Brazilian company who started life assembling small Piper aircraft.

To date total orders stand at 1,339, with just over one 1,000 delivered.  Embraer is developing a revised second generation aircraft with a geared turbine engine for delivery from 2018.  The order book for this aircraft stands at 270.  www.embraer.com    www.klm.com/City-Hopper

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