Finnair Invests in E195-E2 Fleet Renewal to Enhance Passenger Comfort and Connectivity
Share
Finnair has announced a major renewal of its narrowbody fleet, placing firm orders for 18 Embraer E195-E2 aircraft while planning to acquire up to 12 Airbus A320 and A321ceo aircraft from the used market. This approach combines next-generation aircraft efficiency with near-term capacity growth as the airline continues to expand its network. Finnair’s fleet strategy aims to strengthen regional connectivity, improve cost efficiency, reduce emissions, and maintain operational flexibility.
Balancing Growth and Efficiency with Next-Gen Aircraft
At the center of Finnair’s fleet renewal strategy is its order for 18 Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, with options for 16 additional aircraft and purchase rights for 12 more. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2027, with three aircraft arriving in 2027, six in 2028, and six in 2029. The aircraft will be operated by Finnair’s regional partner Norra, which currently manages the airline’s regional traffic using Embraer and ATR aircraft.
“With this investment, we are well positioned to offer our customers a growing, attractive network, as well as excellent reliability and customer experience.”
– Turkka Kuusisto, Finnair
The E195-E2 has been selected for its superior efficiency, reliability, and passenger appeal. It is the quietest single-aisle jet currently available and up to 35 per cent more fuel efficient than the previous-generation E190 aircraft operated by Finnair. The aircraft also features a configuration with no middle seats, enhancing passenger comfort.
Finnair CEO Turkka Kuusisto described the announcement as a major milestone for the airline. “With this investment, we are well positioned to offer our customers a growing, attractive network, as well as excellent reliability and customer experience. Introduction of the new E195-E2 aircraft to our fleet also reduces our CO2 footprint, advancing our climate targets,” he said.
From an operational standpoint, the single aisle aircraft is well suited for regional routes, helping Finnair better match capacity with demand and strengthen connections into its long-haul network. This leads to a more efficient network and better overall connectivity to and from Finland. Passenger experience is also a key consideration. The E195-E2s will offer modern seats, USB charging at every seat, and fast connectivity.
“The E195-E2’s unique combination of efficiency, comfort, and reliability delivers meaningful value, lower fuel burn, lower CO2, and superior economics. We look forward to helping Finnair modernize its short-haul fleet to better match demand, reduce emissions, and unlock growth,” said Embraer Commercial Aviation CEO Arjan Meijer.
Finnair has also secured long-term operational support through agreements with RTX’s Pratt & Whitney for spare engines and maintenance services for the E195-E2’s PW1900G geared turbofan engines, ensuring reliability as the aircraft enter service.
Enhancing Flexibility with a Mixed Fleet Strategy
Alongside ordering new aircraft, Finnair is also turning to the used market to update its fleet in the near term. The airline plans to add up to 12 Airbus A320 and A321ceo aircraft to replace some of its oldest A319 and A320 jets. This helps maintain capacity and keep operations running smoothly while older planes are phased out, and allows Finnair to add aircraft faster and at a lower cost than waiting for new deliveries.
Using a mix of aircraft sizes also gives the airline more flexibility. The smaller E195-E2 is better for regional routes, while the larger A320 and A321 are suited for higher-demand flights. This helps Finnair better match capacity to demand across its network. It also reflects a wider industry trend, where airlines are building more flexible fleets to adapt to changing travel patterns.
Bringing in used A320 and A321 aircraft also helps Finnair manage costs while still modernizing its fleet. The airline can take advantage of available aircraft in the market without heavy upfront spending, with final numbers and delivery timelines still being worked out.
Finnair currently operates a fleet of 79 aircraft, and this renewal represents a significant step in shaping its future composition. By combining new-generation aircraft with select used assets, the airline is building a fleet that balances long-term efficiency gains with near-term operational needs.