JAL selects E190-E2 for J-AIR’s fleet renewal

Japan Airlines (JAL) has selected the Embraer E190-E2 to replace the Embraer E170 and E190 aircraft operated by its regional subsidiary J-AIR. Based at Osaka International Airport (Itami), J-AIR operates an extensive domestic network across Japan. JAL has ordered 26 aircraft, comprising 16 firm orders and 10 options, with deliveries scheduled to begin in fiscal year 2029.

Japan’s domestic aviation sector has faced growing challenges in recent years, including weaker business travel demand, demographic changes, and rising costs due to inflation and currency fluctuations. In response, the JAL Group is implementing business structure reforms under its ‘JAL Group Management Vision 2035’ strategy to maintain and develop a sustainable domestic network that serves as essential social infrastructure for Japan.

For J-AIR, which operates regional routes and aims to be the ‘most trusted and accessible airline’ for local communities, the introduction of the E190-E2 is a key part of JAL’s long-term strategy. The aircraft is intended to meet future market demand and environmental requirements while supporting sustainable domestic operations and regional development.

The E190-E2 features advanced engines and a redesigned wing, improving fuel efficiency and reducing CO₂ emissions compared with previous-generation aircraft. Its lower noise levels are expected to improve the passenger experience while reducing noise pollution for communities near airports. The aircraft’s reliability and durable components are also expected to help lower maintenance costs.

“We are delighted to welcome the state-of-the-art Embraer E190-E2 to the JAL Group fleet as our new wings, an aircraft that boasts superior environmental performance and economic efficiency. In the future society envisioned under the ‘JAL Group Management Vision 2035,’ the domestic network serves as vital social infrastructure supporting local economies and everyday life across Japan. Through the introduction of this aircraft, we will maintain and develop a sustainable air network for the next generation, contributing to the future of Japan. We look forward to offering our customers a new and even more comfortable travel experience in the skies,” said Mitsuko Tottori, President & Group CEO, JAL.

J-AIR is the regional airline of the Japan Airlines (JAL) Group. Based at Osaka International Airport (Itami), it operates regional jet services across Japan, connecting destinations from Memanbetsu in Hokkaido in the north to the Amami Islands in Kagoshima Prefecture in the south, as well as many destinations in between.