KLM Cityhopper orders 21 new Embraer aircraft

KLM Cityhopper has confirmed its order for 21 Embraer 195-E2 aircraft, plus an option for 14 more.

In June, KLM Cityhopper announced its intention to buy 35 Embraer 195-E2s, but this order comprised a fixed order for 15 aircraft plus an option for another 20. The fixed part of this order has therefore been raised by six. The first Embraer 195-E2 will be delivered in the first quarter of 2021.

The Embraer 195-E2 will have 132 seats on board, which is 32 more than the Embraer 190, which is currently the largest aircraft in KLM Cityhopper’s fleet. The new aircraft will enable KLM Cityhopper to accommodate growing passenger demand without increasing flight frequency

The new aircraft will be equipped with new Recaro seats, which are ergonomically designed and leave space for more legroom. They are lighter than the current seats. This is beneficial for fuel consumption and will reduce CO2 emissions. The Business Class seats have adjustable back and headrests. All seats will have a USB port and there will be Wi-Fi on board. The Recaro seats are already in use aboard KLM’s newest Boeing 737s. The cabin has atmospheric lighting and the newly designed overhead compartments offer more space for carry-on baggage. By adding a third cabin attendant aboard these flights, KLM expects to optimise the travel experience for its customers.

Although the new Embraers offer greater capacity, they are more sustainable and silent than their predecessors. The E195-E2 burns 9% less fuel per flight and emits 31% less CO2 per passenger than the E190. The Embraer 195-E2 is also 48% more silent than the Embraer 190. The replacement of older aircraft with newer types is in line with KLM’s initiative Fly Responsibly.

With Fly Responsibly, KLM has committed itself to creating a more sustainable future for the airline industry. Fly Responsibly encompasses all efforts KLM is undertaking and intends to undertake to improve the sustainability of its operations. However, true progress can only be achieved if the whole industry cooperates. With Fly Responsibly, KLM therefore invites customers and others to make use of available CO2 compensation schemes and urges businesses to compensate for staff air travel via the KLM Corporate BioFuel Programme.