Airlink to Become Africa's Second Embraer E195 Operator

South Africa's Airlink will soon become Africa's second Embraer E195 operator as it is set to take delivery of three Embraer E195 aircraft following a lease agreement with Nordic Aviation Capital.

The leased aircraft will help Airlink offer more capacity in the Southern African air travel market following the recent collapse of two competing airlines - Comair and Mango Airlines.

Airlink is South Africa's largest carrier. It currently flies to over 45 domestic and regional destinations with a fleet of 56 aircraft, including 50 Embraer jets. It is the largest operator of Embraer aircraft in Africa, with the Embraer E190 as the largest aircraft in its fleet.

When integrated, the Embraer E195 will become the largest aircraft in Airlink’s fleet. The carrier will become the second airline in Africa to operate the modern Embraer E195 after Air Burkina.

Airlink is in the midst of rapid route expansion. On Monday, it announced that it would launch new service between Johannesburg and Victoria Falls, reconnecting the region’s main economic hub with the iconic tourism destination.

The Embraer E195 is the largest aircraft in the original E-Jet family designed to maximize returns and efficiency on high-density routes. It has a maximum range of 2,300nm (4,260km) and can carry up to 124 passengers.

Based in Ireland, Nordic Aviation Capital is the world’s 5th largest aircraft leasing company. It provides leasing and lease management services to airlines and aircraft investors worldwide.