British Airways has placed firm orders for a fleet of 11 new generation fuel efficient aircraft that will offer passengers unrivalled levels of space and comfort on board
The airline's wholly owned subsidiary BA CityFlyer is to take delivery of the first of its new Embraer aircraft, which will fly exclusively from London City Airport, from September 2009.
Firm orders have been placed for six Embraer 170 and five Embraer 190SR efficiency jets, known as E-jets, with options for three more in an investment worth US$376 million, based on current list prices.
They will replace the current fleet of 10 Avro RJ100 and two RJ85 aircraft operated by BA CityFlyer. The new aircraft will be greener and more fuel efficient with significantly lower carbon dioxide emissions. This was a key consideration in the order.
The Embraer 190SRs and Embraer 170s will operate on routes from London City Airport to Scotland, Ireland and Europe.
A ‘double-bubble' fuselage design means there is more personal space for passengers and with four-abreast seating throughout the aircraft, everyone will have the choice of either a window or aisle seat.
Peter Simpson, managing director of BA CityFlyer, said: "We are very excited about this new fleet of fuel efficient aircraft which will not only help us to meet our environmental objectives but also provide more space and comfort for our customers.
"This significant investment in new aircraft further demonstrates British Airways' commitment to services into and out of London City for our customers.
"Having the combination of the Embraer 170s and 190SRs in the same fleet will give us greater flexibility, enabling us to match capacity with demand on routes within our existing and future network."