ANA Holdings has placed a fresh order for eight Embraer E190-E2 regional jets, a decision ratified at its board meeting on 29 July 2026. The aircraft will be deployed under the group's ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) framework for ANA flights, reinforcing the carrier's domestic network strategy.
The E190-E2, a 100-seat class jet, is prized for its low fuel burn and reduced noise footprint, thanks to advanced PW1900G engines and aerodynamic refinements. ANA expects the new aircraft to lower operating costs and offer greater flexibility in matching capacity to demand on medium- and long-term domestic routes.
This order builds on a previous commitment from 25 February 2025, which covered 15 firm orders and five options for the same model. With the latest purchase, ANA's E-Jets E2 order book now stands at 23 firm aircraft, with options still available.
Strategic fleet renewal for regional growth
Koji Shibata, President and CEO of ANA Holdings, highlighted the strategic importance of the deal: "This additional E190-E2 order accelerates our efforts to build a sustainable regional aviation network in Japan. We are excited to deepen our partnership, elevating regional connectivity and delivering a superior passenger experience across Japan."
The E190-E2 measures 36.3 metres in length, stands 10.7 metres tall at the tail, and has a wingspan of 33.7 metres. With a range of 5,278 kilometres, the aircraft is well suited for ANA's domestic trunk routes as well as potential regional international services.
ANA Group has been progressively modernising its fleet, and the E190-E2s will complement its existing narrowbody and widebody operations. The airline's commitment to sustainability is evident in this order, as the E-Jets E2 family delivers double-digit reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to previous-generation regional jets.
The move also aligns with broader industry trends, as carriers worldwide seek more efficient regional aircraft. For instance, LOT Polish Airlines recently ordered 40 Airbus A220s to refresh its short-haul fleet, while Philippine Airlines has expanded its long-haul capability with A350-1000s. ANA's decision underscores the growing importance of right-sized jets for network optimisation.
Embraer has been enjoying a strong order pipeline, as highlighted at the Farnborough Airshow, where the manufacturer showcased its record backlog and the E195-E2's performance. The E190-E2, with its lower trip costs and superior economics, is becoming a preferred choice for airlines looking to serve thinner routes profitably.
For ANA, the additional E190-E2s will likely be deployed on routes connecting Tokyo's Haneda and Narita hubs with secondary cities across Japan, as well as on select regional international sectors. The aircraft's range and comfort features are expected to enhance the passenger experience, with a 2+2 seating layout that eliminates middle seats.
The order also signals confidence in Japan's domestic travel recovery, which has been steady as business and leisure demand normalises. ANA's investment in regional connectivity is a positive indicator for the country's tourism sector, which relies on efficient air links to distribute visitors beyond major gateways.
Delivery timelines for the eight new aircraft have not been disclosed, but they are expected to join the fleet progressively over the next few years. ANA's existing E190-E2s, which entered service in 2025, have already demonstrated operational reliability and passenger acceptance.
Industry analysts view this order as a prudent move, balancing fleet modernisation with cost discipline. The E190-E2's lower maintenance requirements and fuel efficiency will contribute to ANA's long-term profitability, while its quieter engines help address community noise concerns at airports.
As ANA continues to expand its regional network, the partnership with Embraer is likely to deepen further. The Brazilian manufacturer has been a key supplier for regional jets worldwide, and its E2 family is gaining traction among major carriers seeking to replace ageing 50- and 70-seat aircraft.
With this latest order, ANA Holdings reaffirms its commitment to sustainable growth and operational excellence, setting a benchmark for regional aviation in Japan and beyond.
