Today marks 19 years since the Embraer E170 was introduced. While the E-Jet family also now consists of the E175, E190, and E195, let's look at how the model that started it all is doing in the current climate.

Looking back

The E170 conducted its first flight on February 19th, 2002. A total of seven prototypes were built before the aircraft would become a regional favorite around the world.

Since debuting with LOT Polish Airlines on March 17th, 2004, The regional powerhouse has been popular within numerous sectors. Eliminating the middle seat, it provides plenty of comfort on short-haul operations with its spacious seating.

Across the continents

Looking at the number of flights over the last month, it’s clear that the most notable markets for the E170 are the United States and Japan. Carriers throughout these two countries have the most significant presence in the top ten list. Japan Airlines (JAL) is the cream of the crop, but it is in the company of several US-based carriers.

According to data provided by Cirium, the top ten operators of the E170 between February 17th and March 17th are broken down by the following:

E170 pioneer LOT is still a prevalent operator with nearly 1,000 flights. Air France, Russia's S7, South Africa's Airlink, and Australia's Airnorth make up the rest of the pie.

Even though the legacy carriers of United, American, and Delta dominate, it must be noted that regional outfits primarily operate flights on their behalf. United Express, American Eagle, and Delta Connection primarily rely on these companies.

Thus, with these airlines in mind, the E170’s most active operators between February 17th and March 17th are:

Trusted vessel

It is actually Japan Airlines' commuter subsidiary, J-Air, that provides regular E170 service. Altogether, the E-Jet has shown its value on commuter routes. As Paulo Cesar Silva, former president & CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation, puts it:

“The E-Jets have proven their ability to help airlines maximise yield, and sustainably enter new markets, as in the case of Japan Airlines,”

Over 190 E170s have been taken on as part of a total of more than 1,650 E-Jet family deliveries. The series has even inspired another generation of aircraft, with the Embraer E2 seeing increasing global success since the family's introduction in 2018.

Embraer’s productions have been a saving grace on regional routes. The Brazilian firm’s E-Jets and E2s will remain a staple among short-haul fleets in this next chapter of commercial aviation history.

What are your thoughts about the Embraer E-Jet’s popularity over the years? How do you feel the series has adapted since its introduction? Let us know what you think of the aircraft in the comment section.

Source: Cirium; FlightGlobal