Perth, Australia — Virgin Australia Group has taken a significant step in modernizing its fleet with the arrival of its first Embraer E190-E2 jet in Perth, a move the airline says will transform regional and charter aviation across Western Australia.
The jet, named Coral Bay, completed an epic 25,000-kilometre delivery flight from Embraer’s factory in São José dos Campos, Brazil. Along the way, it touched down in Texas, Los Angeles, Hawaii, Fiji, and Canberra before rolling into its new home base at Virgin Australia Regional Airlines’ (VARA) state-of-the-art hangar at Perth Airport. The arrival also carried symbolic weight for Embraer, representing the 1,900th E-Jet delivered globally.
A First for Western Australia
The aircraft will primarily serve VARA’s charter flights across Western Australia, a market shaped by the needs of the state’s mining and resources sector. But unlike older models in the fleet, the E190-E2 introduces new levels of passenger comfort. It is the first charter jet in the region to feature a dual-class cabin, including a Business Class option, and can also shift to regular passenger routes during quieter charter periods.
The cabin’s two-plus-two seating configuration eliminates middle seats while offering expanded overhead storage, in-seat power, and high-speed Wi-Fi expected from 2026.
“This is a landmark day for aviation in Western Australia,” said Nick Rohrlach, Group Executive of Virgin Australia Regional Airlines. “The E190-E2 is a game-changer—more fuel-efficient, quieter, and more comfortable than any other aircraft in the state’s charter market.”
Rohrlach emphasized that the jet’s arrival strengthens VARA’s flexibility to support both charter and commercial operations, with the ability to serve key destinations such as Darwin, Kalgoorlie, Karratha, Port Hedland, and Broome. “It will enhance the travel experience for our charter clients and allow us to flexibly support commercial routes within Western Australia,” he said.
Looking ahead, Rohrlach added that the growing E190-E2 fleet could be deployed across Virgin Australia’s broader domestic network.
Sustainable Operations Take Center Stage
Beyond comfort, the aircraft signals a leap forward in sustainability. The E190-E2 is 30% more fuel-efficient than the airline’s retiring Fokker 100 fleet and boasts the quietest noise profile in its class. The aircraft is certified to use up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and can operate fully on SAF, aligning with global carbon reduction goals.
“This is the start of an exciting new chapter for Virgin Australia Regional Airlines, a key player in Western Australia’s aviation landscape for over 60 years,” Rohrlach said. “Seeing Coral Bay outside our new maintenance hangar in Perth symbolizes our long-term commitment to the region.”
Support from Partners
Embraer executives also celebrated the delivery as a milestone in their expanding presence in Australia. “The arrival of VARA’s first E190-E2 in Perth marks a significant step in Embraer’s growth in Australia,” said Martyn Holmes, Chief Commercial Officer of Embraer Commercial Aviation. “With its unmatched fuel efficiency, low emissions, and superior passenger comfort, the E190-E2 will elevate VARA’s operations and enhance the customer experience in Western Australia. Our team is dedicated to supporting VARA in maximizing the aircraft’s performance and reliability.”
Perth Airport welcomed the development as a boost for regional travel. “It’s fantastic to see this impressive E190-E2 at its new home in Perth,” said Scott Woodward, Chief Operating Officer of Perth Airport. “This aircraft expands options for regional customers and reflects VARA’s commitment to Western Australia. We look forward to supporting the airline’s growth at Perth Airport.”
A Multi-Million-Dollar Investment
The arrival of Coral Bay is the first step in a larger fleet renewal plan. Virgin Australia has committed to eight E190-E2 aircraft, with four scheduled for delivery over the next 12 months. The order, valued at more than US$500 million based on list prices, will enable VARA to phase out its aging Fokker 100 fleet by early 2026.
For Virgin Australia, the investment represents more than a fleet update—it signals a strategy to reinforce its role in the regional aviation market, improve sustainability, and raise the standard for passenger experience.
With its blend of efficiency, flexibility, and comfort, the E190-E2 is set to redefine charter and regional air travel in Western Australia while positioning Virgin Australia for growth nationwide.
