First Brazilian-Built Embraer E195-E2 for LATAM Unveiled in São José dos Campos

First Brazilian-Built Embraer E195-E2 for LATAM Unveiled in São José dos Campos

Photo © ASA / LATAM.

The new-generation regional jet, built by Embraer in Brazil, is set to join LATAM's fleet in late 2026 and will play a key role in strengthening the airline's domestic and international network.

LATAM Airlines Brazil has officially unveiled the first images of its inaugural Embraer E195-E2, now painted in the airline's full livery at Embraer's production facilities in São José dos Campos, Brazil. The milestone marks a significant step in the partnership between LATAM and the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer, while reinforcing the airline's strategy to expand connectivity across the country.

The aircraft is scheduled to enter service during the fourth quarter of 2026 and will become an important asset in LATAM's fleet modernization plan. Designed to efficiently serve medium-density markets, the E195-E2 will allow the airline to increase frequencies, open new routes and improve connections between regional cities and LATAM's global network.

The rollout of the first painted aircraft highlights the next phase of LATAM's long-term investment in sustainable growth and operational flexibility.

A Strategic Addition to LATAM's Fleet

LATAM's E195-E2 program includes a firm order for 24 aircraft, valued at approximately US$2.1 billion at list prices, as well as 50 additional purchase options that could support future expansion.

According to Jerome Cadier, CEO of LATAM Brazil, the new aircraft will provide the flexibility needed to develop new markets while strengthening existing operations.

"We are making our fleet even more versatile to explore new markets, expand current operations and fine-tune our capacity to reach even more destinations in a sustainable way," said Jerome Cadier, CEO of LATAM Brazil.

The airline has not yet announced the first routes to be operated by the E195-E2, but the aircraft is expected to play a major role in linking Brazil's regional markets with LATAM's main hubs, improving access to the group's extensive international network.

Why the Embraer E195-E2 Matters

Manufactured by Embraer in São José dos Campos, the E195-E2 is the largest member of the E-Jets E2 family and is widely recognized as one of the most advanced single-aisle regional aircraft available today.

The aircraft was designed to deliver significant improvements in fuel efficiency, lower carbon emissions and reduced noise levels compared with previous-generation regional jets.

Its capacity and economics make it particularly suitable for routes that do not require larger narrowbody aircraft, enabling airlines to develop emerging markets while maintaining profitability.

For Brazil's aerospace industry, LATAM's investment in the E195-E2 also reinforces the global competitiveness of Embraer and highlights the country's position as one of the world's leading aircraft manufacturing hubs.

Pilot Training and Recruitment Already Underway

Preparation for the arrival of the new fleet is already in progress.

LATAM has completed the hiring of more than 50 pilots and first officers for its first dedicated E195-E2 crew class and has launched simulator and supervised flight training programs for current pilots transitioning to the new aircraft type.

The airline has also created its first talent pool in Brazil specifically aimed at first officers interested in operating the E195-E2 fleet.

A Specially Designed Livery

The E195-E2's distinctive fuselage required LATAM to adapt elements of its corporate identity, creating a unique livery with greater visual presence across the aircraft.

The airline also extended its branding to the engine nacelles, increasing visibility in aviation photography and passenger-generated social media content.

Operational and environmental considerations also influenced the design. The predominance of white paint follows LATAM's fleet standard, contributing to lower heat absorption, reduced weight and improved operational efficiency throughout the aircraft's service life.

Supporting the Growth of Brazilian Aviation

LATAM has significantly expanded its presence in Brazil over the past several years. Since 2019, the airline has increased its domestic network from 44 to more than 60 airports, reaching the largest number of domestic destinations in its history.

Internationally, the LATAM Group currently connects Brazil with more than 90 destinations worldwide, including 30 served by direct flights from the country.

The arrival of the Embraer E195-E2 strengthens this growth strategy by combining LATAM's operational scale with Brazilian aerospace engineering and innovation.

For the aviation industry, the unveiling of the first painted aircraft is more than a fleet milestone—it is a symbol of Brazil's ability to design, manufacture and deliver world-class commercial aviation technology to the global market.