Porter Airlines is positioning itself to challenge Canada's major carriers. It's announced that it's extending its North American service with the introduction of 80 fuel-efficient Embraer E195-E2 aircraft into its fleet. The planes have transcontinental range and will enter into service with Porter starting in the second half of 2022.
Porter intends to operate the new E2s to popular domestic destinations such as YOW, YUL, YHZ, and YYZ. However, the introduction of specific routes is yet to come.
“We are bringing Porter’s distinct style of service to dozens of new North American cities,” said Michael Deluce, president and CEO, Porter Airlines. “We believe that now is the right time to make this investment as the pandemic resets the aviation landscape. Adding a diverse selection of popular business and leisure destinations to our network means that we are better positioned to serve the needs of many more passengers.”
The introduction of the new E2s leads to the possibility of a continental route network, with destinations including U.S. sun destinations, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Highlights of future destinations include Vancouver, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Orlando, Miami, and Nassau. Initial routes will be announced in 2022.
According to Porter, flights at YTZ will continue to remain core to its business and will continue with high-frequency regional service despite establishing service at YYZ for the first time. However, the new E2s will not operate at YTZ.
“Our commitment to Billy Bishop Airport is not changing,” said Robert Deluce, founder and executive chairman, Porter Airlines. “Our corporate headquarters at Billy Bishop is being maintained and we will continue serving the same network of regional markets from downtown Toronto. We are moving beyond this existing footprint to welcome more travellers across North America, with an emphasis on providing the sophisticated service that only Porter delivers.”
Porter is Embraer’s North American launch customer for the E2. The total aircraft order is valued at up to USD $5.82 billion at current list prices, with 30 firm commitments and 50 purchase right options, including the ability to purchase rights to smaller E190-E2s.
The E195-E2 can accommodate between 120 and 146 passengers, and does not feature middle seats. Porter has yet to finalize preferred configuration and additional passenger experience details, such as in-flight entertainment and onboard service.
“With this order for up to 80 of our largest aircraft, the E2 is making a stunning North American debut,” said Arjan Meijer, president and CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation. As the quietest and most fuel-efficient aircraft in the segment, the E195-E2 also delivers excellent economic performance that shines through.”
“The support of our board of directors and shareholders was crucial in deciding to invest in Porter’s future,” said Don Carty, chairman of the board, Porter Airlines. “We have investors, partners, customers and team members who have been with us from day one, while others joined at different points along the way. It’s time for us to collectively build on the exceptional global reputation that we’ve built for Porter and continue our journey.”
Funds for the aircraft purchase are being raised privately from shareholders, as well as through aircraft sale-leaseback agreements.
An overview of Porter’s growth plan, including E195-E2 features, is available on its website.
