Avelo agrees to firm order for 50 Embraer jets

Aircraft deliveries are expected to begin in the first half of 2027. The order is valued at  $4.4 billion, with purchase rights for an additional 50 jets.

Avelo will be the first U.S. carrier to operate Embraer’s largest jet, which seats 120 to 146 passengers and has a range of up to 2,600 miles.

Avelo stated that the new fleet would complement its current roster of 22 older  Boeing 737 700 and 800  jets. Avelo has faced challenges in securing older jets, with airlines like Southwest holding on to aircraft, due to  delays with Boeing jet orders. Refitting the Boeings with power ports and other passenger amenities  would also add to expenses for an airline with low base fares.

The airline stated that the jets from the Brazilian aircraft company will improve costs factors. The E195‑E2 is capable  of landing on shorter runways and would add more destination options for the airline that flies out of smaller airports like Wilmington (ILG). The Embraer jets could pave the way for additional  service from Wilmington Airport, thanks in part to better fuel efficiency.  Avelo continues to look for smaller airports around major cities such as Dallas-Fort Worth and Washington, D.C.

Avelo has gained a foothold in the Delaware Valley market in its third year of flights  from Delaware to Sun Belt destinations. Flights are typically on a twice-weekly basis.

“We are thrilled to partner with Embraer and bring this best-in-class small narrow-body airplane to the United States marketplace.  Our customers will love the E2’s comfortable 2x2 seating, in-seat power ports, large overhead bins, and quiet cabin," Avelo CEO Andrew Levy stated.  "The aircraft’s exceptional performance, size, and efficiency make it the perfect choice for the future growth of our scheduled service network. The airline industry in the United States is evolving, and the E2 fits perfectly with our vision for Avelo’s unique role in that evolution.”

The Avelo order comes as fellow ultra low-fare carrier Spirit Airlines has cut its route schedule after filing for bankruptcy. The airline faced numerous challenges include low customer service rankings, competition with legacy carriers, and the costs of keeping idled jets waiting for parts.