Florida-based lessor Azorra is set to enter the freighter leasing market following the signing of a deal with Embraer for the conversion of up to 30 aircraft.
The agreement will see Embraer convert 20 E-190 aircraft into a freighter configuration with purchase rights for a further 10 conversions.
The order follows the successful entry into service of the E-190F in March. The company is among the first lessors to commit to the Embraer E-Freighter.
The airline has been weighing up the possibility of converting E-190 aircraft since 2022.
Azorra chief executive John Evans said: “This investment reflects our confidence in the aircraft and extending its useful life. The E-Jet Freighter is an ideal replacement for older 737 freighters, offering reliable, Stage 4 noise-compliant operations and, with Azorra’s CF34 engine programme, unmatched operating costs.”
Embraer commercial aviation president and chief executive Arjan Meijer added: “This agreement is a strong endorsement of the E-Freighter and reflects growing demand for efficient, right-sized cargo solutions worldwide.
“We look forward to supporting Azorra and its customers as the E-Freighter continues to expand its presence across the global air cargo market.”
Embraer launched its E-Jet freighter programme to convert E190 and E195 passenger aircraft to freighters in March 2022.
The manufacturer said the E-Freighter fills the gap between turboprops and larger narrowbodies and delivers 30% lower operating costs with similar cargo volume and range, while offering 35% extra volume capacity and more than three times the range of large cargo turboprops.
Combining cargo capacity under the floor and on the main deck, the E190F’s maximum structural payload is 13.5 tonnes. The larger E195F will have a payload of 14.3 tonnes.
“Designed for high-frequency, time-sensitive operations, the aircraft will improve regional connectivity and help open new trade routes across key growth markets, including Latin America, Southeast Asia and the Middle East and Africa – regions where Azorra has established expertise,” Embraer added.
The converted aircraft began operations in March with Bridges Air Cargo. Registered as 9H-BRD, the first Bridges aircraft is leased from US lessor, Regional One.
The airline has since added a second E-Freighter.
