May debut for Solomon Airline’s E-Jet

National carrier Solomon Airlines has introduced its new 75-seater E-Jet on May 1st to service its international routes. The introduction of the new Embraer E-170 aircraft will see the airline initiate additional routes to its current, six round trip flights per week to Brisbane – via Espiratus Santo and Nadi.

The new jet, painted in national colours is the result of a strategic partnership with Australian charter operator SkyAirWorld and makes Solomon Airlines the first commercial carrier to use E-Jet in the region.

“The E-170 exemplifies our new direction and sets standards for comfort, reliability and fuel efficiency in its class,” said Solomon Airlines Chief Executive Officer Ron Sumsum. Sumsum said the partnership with SkyAirWorld comes as the airline plans to upgrade its fleet over the coming years.

SkyAirWorld says their E-170 flies 12 per cent faster and 50 per cent than other aircrafts in its class. The new E-170 aircraft should start its commercial flights by the end of May when it completes its CASA aviation requirements.