LATAM Airlines Group has announced a significant fleet renewal and expansion plan, confirming an order for up to 74 Embraer E195-E2 aircraft. The deal covers 24 firm orders with 50 options and is valued at around $2.1 billion at list prices.
Deliveries of the first aircraft are scheduled to begin in the second half of 2026. The first jets will be operated by LATAM Airlines Brasil, with the possibility of later allocation to other affiliates across the region.
According to LATAM, the new E195-E2s will allow the group to strengthen regional and domestic networks by serving underserved cities and thinner routes that are not economically viable with larger single-aisle jets. The airline estimates it could add up to 35 new destinations to its current network of around 160 passenger destinations.
Over the past four years, LATAM has steadily grown its footprint, expanding from 129 destinations to approximately 160. The airline expects the new aircraft to enhance this growth strategy by providing additional flexibility and right-sized capacity.
Why the E195-E2?
The E195-E2 is the largest aircraft in Embraer’s E-Jet E2 family, seating up to 146 passengers in a single-class configuration. LATAM highlighted the jet’s fuel efficiency, lower per-seat costs, and passenger comfort, including a two-by-two seating layout with no middle seats.
Embraer’s updated aerodynamics and new-generation engines allow the E195-E2 to reduce fuel burn and emissions compared to earlier regional jets. This efficiency is expected to lower LATAM’s operating costs on regional services while supporting its sustainability targets.
LATAM currently operates a fleet of about 362 aircraft, including 283 Airbus narrow-bodies, 56 Boeing wide-bodies, and 20 freighters. The decision to introduce the Embraer E195-E2 marks a shift toward adding smaller, more flexible aircraft to complement its existing fleet.
The airline said the order is consistent with its financial policies and will not require changes to leverage or liquidity targets.
source
