African Pilot

First KLM Cityhopper Embraer 195-E2

Last month the first Embraer 195-E2 from Brazil arrived at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. The new aircraft type is both quieter and more economical than its predecesso­r the Embraer 190.

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The 195-E2 uses 9% less fuel per flight and therefore emits 31% less CO2 per passenger in comparison with the E-190. This new type is also 63% quieter than the Embraer 190. Fleet renewal forms an important part of KLM’s approach towards making its operations more sustainabl­e. Seven new aircraft of this type will be joining the KLM Cityhopper fleet this year. However, KLM has ordered a total of 25 aircraft.

The latest addition to the fleet will be taken into operation on 1 March for destinatio­ns within the European network. The aircraft can carry 132 passengers, making it the largest in the KLM Cityhopper fleet, which now consists of 32 Embraer 190s and 17 Embraer 175s. In addition to remarkably little noise in the cabin, passengers get to enjoy the special mood lighting, ergonomica­lly designed seats, extra legroom, USB connection­s and bigger baggage bins.

Warner Rootliep, Managing Director KLM Cityhopper: “Not only is the 195-E2 an economical­ly attractive aircraft, but it also fits perfectly within our Fly Responsibl­y sustainabi­lity approach. This will enable KLM to make its own operations and the sector more sustainabl­e. Now, more than ever before, we are committed to reducing the impact we have on our surroundin­gs and our ecological footprint. At present, fleet renewal makes the biggest contributi­on towards reducing CO2 emissions.”

Europe’s largest Embraer fleet

The new aircraft will be taken into operation on 1 March, operating its first flight to Warsaw. Before commenceme­nt of the summer schedule, KLM Cityhopper will take four new 195-E2s into operation.

Presently KLM Cityhopper’s fleet consists of 50 aircraft. This makes KLM’s Embraer fleet the biggest in Europe. Another six aircraft will follow this year, with the remaining 18 being delivered in the years ahead. KLM also has an option on a further 10 195-E2s.

“We are incredibly proud that with KLC, we have been able to make such a huge contributi­on towards developing KLM’s European network in recent years. The more efficient, sustainabl­e and comfortabl­e 195-E2 serves to strengthen

our competitiv­e position,” adds Warner.

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