The first Embraer E-Freighter, an E190 converted from passenger-to-freight configuration, has entered commercial service in Europe with launch customer Bridges Air Cargo. On March 9, 2026, the aircraft completed its inaugural flight from Cologne, Germany, to Larnaca, Cyprus, carrying time-sensitive express cargo.
The jet will operate for Bridges Worldwide, supporting express logistics networks across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Bridges Air Cargo holds a Malta-registered AOC, enabling regional operations with payloads of 8-12 tonnes. Guy Bridges, CEO of the Bridges Group, noted the aircraft’s role after 12 months of developing bespoke containers and handling systems.
Embraer’s passenger-to-freight (P2F) program addresses e-commerce demands for rapid delivery to secondary and tertiary markets. Converted E-Jets provide over 40% greater cargo volume than comparable aircraft, three times the range of large cargo turboprops, and up to 30% lower operating costs than larger narrowbodies. Maximum structural payload reaches 13,500 kg when combining main deck and underfloor capacity.
Regional One, Inc., the conversion partner, doubled its order in 2025 to four aircraft. George Mamangakis, Regional One’s Chief Investment Officer, called the entry into service a milestone affirming the E190F’s potential in the EMEA region. Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, highlighted Embraer’s commitment to supporting Bridges’ operations.
The program follows setbacks, including NAC’s exit after its acquisition by Dubai Aerospace Enterprise.