Mexicana Places Order for 20 Embraer E2 Aircraft

Mexicana (MXA) has announced a significant expansion of its fleet with a new order for 20 Embraer aircraft. The deal includes ten E190-E2s and ten E195-E2s, with deliveries set to begin in the second quarter of 2025. This strategic move will position Mexicana as the first operator of Embraer E-Jets in Mexico.

The E190-E2s will be configured to carry 108 passengers, while the larger E195-E2s will accommodate 132 seats. The introduction of these regional jets is expected to enhance Mexicana’s connectivity across a range of domestic and international routes, aligning with the airline’s goal of modernizing its fleet.

Currently, Mexicana operates a fleet of five wet-leased aircraft: three Boeing 737-800s from the Mexican Air Force and two E145s from TAR Aerolíneas. However, in pursuit of further expansion, Mexicana’s parent company, Grupo Aeroportuario, Ferroviario, de Servicios Auxiliares y Conexos, Olmeca-Maya-Mexica, S.A. de C.V. (GAFSACOMM), has requested MXN 20.87 billion pesos (USD 1.75 billion) from the finance ministry to acquire new aircraft.

This order comes as Mexicana faces challenges in sourcing aircraft from the secondary market, leading to a breach-of-contract lawsuit seeking USD 10 million from SAT Aero Holdings. The airline had also considered a potential order from Boeing.

In recent developments, Mexicana revealed a substantial 1,130% increase in budgetary support, indicating its reliance on government subsidies until at least 2027. The addition of Embraer E2 jets is seen as a crucial step in bolstering the airline’s operational capabilities and market presence.