The Embraer E190 is part of the regional aircraft family Embraer E-Jets, launched by the Brazilian manufacturer Embraer in the early 2000s. It stood out in the regional and short/mid-haul market due to its efficiency, comfort, and operational flexibility.
Embraer E190 Versions
- E190LR (Long Range)
- Long-range version with increased fuel capacity.
- Range: up to 4,450 km.
- Ideal for longer regional routes.
- E190AR (Advanced Range)
- Variant with optimized engines and enhanced range.
- Maximum range: 4,500 km.
- Often used for point-to-point routes between medium-sized cities.
- E190-E2 (Second Generation)
- Part of the E2 family (launched in 2018), featuring significant updates:
- Greater fuel efficiency (up to 17% less than the classic E190).
- Pratt & Whitney PW1900G engines.
- Extended range to 5,300 km.
- Advanced cabin technology, including improved Fly-by-Wire systems.
- Significant reductions in emissions and noise.
- Part of the E2 family (launched in 2018), featuring significant updates:
Interesting Facts About the E190
- Global Popularity
- Operated by more than 70 airlines worldwide, including JetBlue, KLM Cityhopper, and Azul.
- Widely used to replace turboprop aircraft or older jets on regional routes.
- Cabin Configuration
- 2-2 configuration, eliminating uncomfortable middle seats.
- Capacity: 96 to 114 passengers, depending on configuration.
- Production Abroad
- Besides Brazil, some units were assembled in China and Jacksonville, USA, to meet local demand.
- First Flight
- The E190 had its first flight on March 12, 2004, and its first delivery was to JetBlue Airways.
- Versatility
- Capable of operating at smaller airports or those with short runways, like London City Airport.
Accidents and Incidents
Despite its overwhelmingly positive safety record, the E190 has had some reported incidents:
- LAM Mozambique Airlines (November 29, 2013)
- Flight TM470: An E190 crashed in Namibia, killing 33 people on board.
- Cause: The investigation concluded that the co-pilot deliberately caused the crash, a case of murder-suicide.
- Avianca Brasil (October 28, 2016)
- An E190 suffered a landing gear failure during landing in Brasília.
- No injuries were reported, but the aircraft sustained substantial damage.
- Myanmar National Airlines (May 12, 2019)
- An E190 made an emergency landing in Mandalay after the nose landing gear failed to deploy.
- The pilot’s skill was widely praised, as no injuries were reported.
- Azerbaijan Airlines (December 25, 2024)
- An Embraer E190AR (c/n 4K-AZ65) operated by Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) crashed during an emergency landing attempt at the Aktau alternate airport (UATE/SCO) in Kazakhstan.
- Initial reports indicate 12 survivors out of the 72 people on board.
- Technical Incidents
- Some minor technical failures have been reported over the years, generally related to Fly-by-Wire systems or pressurization. All were addressed through updates and service bulletins.
E190 Technical Specifications
- Length: 36.24 meters
- Wingspan: 28.72 meters
- Height: 10.57 meters
- Engines: General Electric CF34-10E
- Cruising Speed: 870 km/h
- Range: up to 4,500 km (classic E190) / 5,300 km (E190-E2)
- Capacity: 96-114 passengers
Market Impact
The E190 was a game-changer in the regional jet segment, offering a combination of efficiency, comfort, and low operating costs. Its success helped establish Embraer as a global leader in regional aircraft. The advent of the E2 family promised even greater efficiency and sustainability, keeping the E190 competitive in the global market.
