Finnair picks Embraer instead of Airbus for its narrow-body fleet renewal

Core Viewpoint - Finnair has decided to renew its European fleet by ordering 18 E195-E2 narrow-body aircraft from Embraer, moving away from Airbus as its current provider [1][2]. Group 1: Fleet Renewal and Aircraft Details - The order includes options for 16 additional E195-E2 aircraft and purchase rights for a further 12 [3]. - Finnair plans to acquire up to 12 used Airbus A320 or A321 aircraft from the secondary market [2]. - The E195-E2 is noted for being highly versatile and one of the quietest aircraft available [2]. Group 2: Environmental Impact - The new aircraft will reduce CO emissions by 30 percent per passenger carried, supporting Finnair's climate objectives [3]. Group 3: Market Context and Strategic Moves - Finnair's decision is a setback for Airbus, as Embraer's E2 series outsold the Airbus A220 by a ratio of three to one last year [2]. - The airline has been navigating challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic and airspace closures due to geopolitical tensions since 2022 [4]. - Finnair had previously indicated an urgent need to replace 15 older models from its narrow-body fleet of 29 Airbus planes [5].