Brazilian jet manufacturer Embraer and Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) have sealed a historic agreement this week for the purchase of 55 E195‑E2 aircraft, valued at approximately 25 billion Swedish krona (US $3.95 billion / R$ 21 billion). The aircraft, each configured to carry up to 150 passengers, represent the largest single investment SAS has made since 1996.
A Renewed Growth Trajectory for SAS
At a Stockholm press conference, SAS CEO Anko van der Werff confirmed the contract signing for 45 firm orders, with options for an additional 10 jets to be exercised in the future. Deliveries are slated to begin in 2027, with an initial focus on bolstering connectivity across Nordic capitals. Van der Werff hailed the deal as a “renaissance” for SAS after navigating a turbulent chapter that culminated in a U.S. Chapter 11 restructuring process initiated in July 2022 and completed in August 2024.
“The Embraer E195‑E2 is a world‑class aircraft,[…]It combines exceptional performance, outstanding fuel efficiency and superior passenger comfort. It’s the right jet to support our growth across Scandinavia and beyond.”
– van der Werff
Embraer’s Moment in the Spotlight
For Embraer, founded in 1969, this sale underscores one of its most successful periods ever. In the first quarter of 2025, Embraer reported a backlog worth US $26.4 billion, surpassing the record set in the previous quarter. The company delivered 30 aircraft during Q1 2025—a 20 percent increase over the 25 jets handed over in Q1 2024.
Operating across Commercial Aviation, Executive Aviation, Defense & Security, and Agricultural segments, Embraer also provides comprehensive after‑sales support. More than 9,000 Embraer jets have taken to the skies worldwide, averaging one takeoff every ten seconds and transporting over 150 million passengers annually.
Strategic Implications and Market Leadership
As the global leader in commercial jets of up to 150 seats, Embraer plays a pivotal role in Brazil’s high‑value export portfolio. Its manufacturing and service facilities span the Americas, Europe, Asia and Africa, reinforcing its status as a truly global player.
For SAS, the Embraer deal paves the way for a fleet modernization that promises lower emissions, reduced operating costs and enhanced passenger experience—critical advantages as the industry rebounds and competition intensifies. With these new jets in service, SAS aims to strengthen its network throughout Scandinavia and explore growth opportunities elsewhere in Europe and beyond.
This multi‑billion‑kronor agreement not only marks a major milestone for both companies but also signals renewed optimism for the post‑pandemic aviation landscape in Northern Europe.
Source: Gizmodo
