Will Major Carriers Opt for the Embraer E-195 E2 Over Airbus A319/737-700?

The question whether major carriers will purchase the Embraer E-195 E2 to replace the Airbus A319 and 737-700 is not a straightforward one. While it is possible, the decision hinges on various factors including the carrier’s fleet composition and operational considerations.

Introduction

The aviation industry is constantly evolving, with modern aircraft offering greater efficiencies and passenger comfort. Among the competitors in the single-aisle market, the Embraer E-195 E2 and the Airbus A319/737-700 have been prominent options for carriers looking to replace older aircraft in their fleet. This article explores the likelihood of major airline carriers purchasing the Embraer E-195 E2 for fleet renewal, examining the key factors that influence this decision.

Unlikely Purchase by Major Carriers

While the Embraer E-195 E2 offers several advantages, including improved fuel efficiency and passenger comfort, it may be quite unlikely that major carriers will opt for it as a replacement for the Airbus A319/737-700 across their entire fleet. Here are the reasons why:

Compatibility with Existing Fleet

A major carrier operates a diverse fleet to meet the varying needs of its routes and destinations. If a carrier already operates an A319/A320 or 737 family, replacing the entire fleet with the E-195 E2 might not be a practical solution. The E-195 E2 is primarily designed to replace the Airbus A319 and smaller 737 models. Therefore, a full replacement would be expensive and unnecessary, as it would require new pilot training, maintenance infrastructure, and operational changes. This makes it an inefficient choice for carriers holding a fleet composed primarily of A319/A320 or 737 family aircraft.

Operational Considerations and Innovation

The Airbus A319/737-700 have been in service for a considerable time and have received numerous updates and improvements. The Airbus 220 (A320neo), on the other hand, is a modern, highly efficient aircraft with advanced avionics, aerodynamics, and fuel-saving features. Airline carriers tend to embrace innovations not only for efficiency gains but also to maintain their competitive edge in the highly competitive air travel market. Therefore, the Airbus 220, with its better fuel efficiency, reduced emission, and advanced technologies, is likely to attract more orders in the near future.

Additionally, the Airbus A320neo and its derivatives, such as the A321neo, are part of a larger family offering different aircraft sizes to meet various market segments. This modularity allows carriers to better tailor their fleet to meet the demands of different routes and passenger segments. The Embraer E-195 E2, while a strong contender, may not offer the same level of flexibility and market adaptability as the Airbus A320neo family.

Airbus 220 as a Major Competitor

Embraer has been hopeful about securing orders for the E-195 E2, but the market competition is fierce. The Airbus 220, particularly the A320neo, has gained significant market share in recent years. Major airlines are more likely to opt for the A320neo due to its proven reliability, advanced technologies, and integration with the Airbus A320 family. This strategic choice not only ensures better performance and cost efficiency but also aligns with the long-term plans of the carrier for their fleet.

Conclusion

While the Embraer E-195 E2 offers compelling advantages over older models like the A319 and 737-700, its widespread adoption by major carriers as a full replacement fleet is highly unlikely. Instead, it is more probable that the Airbus A320neo will continue to dominate the market. However, as the aviation industry evolves, the E-195 E2 remains a viable option, and carriers may choose to integrate it with their existing fleet in a strategic manner to enhance efficiency and passenger comfort.

References

1. Embraer. (2021). E-Jet E2 Family.

2. Airbus. (2021). A320neo Family.

3. International Air Transport Association. (2021). Fleet Trends and Evolutions.