The Embraer E-Jet E2 family is marking 10 years since its first flight, a milestone that underlines a decade of development and early service experience for the second-generation regional jet program. The lead variant, the E190-E2, performed its maiden flight on 23 May 2016 from Embraer’s facility in São José dos Campos, Brazil. According to Embraer and publicly available certification records, the aircraft went on to receive type approval in early 2018 before entering commercial service with Norwegian regional carrier Widerøe as launch customer.
Developed as a re-engined and extensively updated evolution of the original E-Jet family, the E2 line incorporates a new high-aspect-ratio wing, a full fly-by-wire flight control system, and Pratt & Whitney PW1900G geared turbofan engines on the E190-E2. These changes are aimed at reducing fuel burn and noise while maintaining typical seating capacity of around 96 to 114 passengers in single-class layouts. The family later expanded with larger models such as the E195-E2, rolled out in 2017. Over the past decade, the E2 has positioned itself in the 100–150 seat segment, targeting high-frequency, short- to medium-range operations where airlines seek improved operating economics over earlier regional jets.