First new Embraer for KLM Cityhopper

KLM Cityhopper, the regional subsidiary of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, had taken delivery of its first Embraer 190 E-jet at the head office of the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer in São José dos Campos.

On Monday, November 10, the new Embraer, registration PH-EZA, received a festive welcome at Schiphol, where it arrived as flight KL7882.

This is the first of ten Embraer 190s that will be added to the KLM Cityhopper (KLC) fleet. The arrival of the aircraft marks the start of the KLC fleet renewal program. During the coming 18 months, KLC will replace its oldest Fokker 100s. The second Embraer 190 will arrive next month, and the tenth is scheduled for delivery in March 2010.

The Embraer 190 is a twin-engine jet, which can carry up to 100 passengers. It has a range of 4,500 kilometers. The Embraer burns 9% less fuel than its predecessor and therefore emits less CO2. The aircraft also offers greater comfort, with leather seats in a four abreast. The cabin is configured with a two-class lay out.
The first Embraer will be deployed on routes to Munich, Edinburgh, and Zurich.

“We are very pleased to take delivery of our first Embraer 190 jet and welcome it into KLM’s European network,” said Michel Coumans, managing director of KLM Cityhopper. “The aircraft will enable us to improve our operational performance throughout Europe with a superior product for our customers, whilst considerably reducing emissions.”

Jan Witsenboer, Senior Vice President of Corporate Fleet Development & Aircraft Trading, said: “The purchase was jointly made with Air France and Régional, the wholly-owned regional subsidiary of Air France. Joint fleet planning also presents opportunities to achieve purchasing synergies as well as future benefits in maintenance, training, and handling.”

KLM Cityhopper will be taking over 5 Fokker 70s from Régional in the year ahead. At the start of 2010, the KLM Cityhopper's fleet will consist of 10 Embraer 190s, 5 newer Fokker 100s, 26 Fokker 70s and 12 Fokker 50s.

The Embraer 190 is the third new aircraft type that KLM has added to its fleet this year. Previous newcomers were the Boeing 777-300 ER, the most eco-efficient aircraft for intercontinental services, and the Boeing 737-700, for medium-range operations