UPDATE: Virgin Australia has just launched its new Embraer E190-E2 aircraft, named Coral Bay, to serve the booming fly-in-fly-out (FIFO) market in Western Australia. The jet landed in Perth earlier today, marking a pivotal moment for the airline’s expansion and a boost for the local economy.
The E190-E2 made its inaugural flight from Canberra and will officially enter service next month, primarily catering to charter routes across WA. This strategic move is set to enhance travel options for regional passengers and improve services to key destinations such as Kalgoorlie, Karratha, Port Hedland, and Broome.
According to officials, the new aircraft offers a first-of-its-kind dual business and economy class layout for WA’s charter market, featuring a comfortable 2-2 seating configuration. Nick Rohrlach, VARA group executive, emphasized the jet’s superior comfort, stating it provides a “jumbo jet experience on a boutique jet.” He added, “You’ve got business class seats that are brand new, and economy class seats that are wider than many seats in the sky.”
This development comes just over a year after Virgin Australia ordered a total of eight E190-E2 jets from Brazilian manufacturer Embraer to replace its aging Fokker 100 fleet. An additional three aircraft are expected to join the fleet within the next year, further solidifying Virgin Australia’s commitment to the region.
The impact of these new jets stretches beyond passenger comfort. “By using these aircraft, we not only enhance the experience for our mining customers, like Rio Tinto, but we also improve reliability for everyone involved, which is crucial for mining operations,” Rohrlach remarked. This sentiment underscores the importance of reliable transportation in supporting WA’s economic strength.
Embraer’s chief commercial officer, Martyn Holmes, highlighted the significance of this delivery, marking the 1900th E-jet dispatched globally. “With outstanding fuel efficiency, low noise, and low emissions, the E190-E2 will elevate VARA’s operations and enhance the customer experience in WA,” he stated.
Perth Airport’s chief operating officer, Scott Woodward, also praised the new aircraft, noting it provides regional customers with more travel options and reinforces VARA’s dedication to serving Western Australia. Having operated in the region for over six decades, VARA, formerly known as Skywest, has been a vital player in local aviation since joining Virgin Australia in 2013.
As Virgin Australia prepares for the official launch of its E190-E2 aircraft, the airline’s ongoing investment in WA’s aviation infrastructure promises to reshape travel in the region, offering enhanced service and comfort to passengers.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Virgin Australia expands its operations and affects the local travel landscape.
