TAP launched its first Embraer 190 in operation
23-May-2016 Better product and services offered to Customers in regional operations
TAP's first Embraer 190 is already flying across the European skies, operating on the company's regional network in TAP Express livery. The new E190, CS-TPW, made its maiden flight for TAP on Monday, May 23, with flight TP488, from Lisbon to Nice (France), departing Lisbon at 08:55 am.
The entry into service of the E190 aircraft is part of TAP's regional fleet renewal strategy - the fleet will soon include nine E190 and eight ATR 72 - operating for TAP Express, the new branded product recently launched by TAP. TAP Express now replaces former PGA for regional operations, thus reinforcing TAP's corporate identity and granting a more consistent brand and product.
"We at TAP are very pleased to launch the new E190 aircraft into operation as part of our thorough strategic plan to improve product and services in the whole, including the renewal of the company's entire regional fleet. These aircraft offer a greater degree in comfort and modernity that will surprise our passengers. The new E190 are recent aircraft with advanced technology and greater range, which will allow TAP to open new routes and expand to new markets, while ensuring more flexible and reliable operations, with better efficiency and cost-effectiveness. With such aircraft in service, TAP Express will from now on operate the newest fleet in its market segment, thus strongly reinforcing its competitiveness as an European regional airline", said Fernando Pinto, TAP CEO.
The E190 aircraft operated by TAP Express will replace the Fokker 100s, which have been in operation for some years. With this new fleet - more modern and efficient - TAP will be able to significantly upgrade services provided to customers, both in comfort and reliability, also improving its operational regularity and punctuality.
With capacity for 106 passengers, the Embraer 190 displays comfortable seats (known as Slim Seats) in a cabin configuration of 2 + 2 seats per row that offer excellent in-flight comfort, and is often considered by passengers as the most comfortable aircraft in its segment.
"It is a pleasure to add TAP Express to the growing family of E-Jet operators", said Paulo César Silva, President & CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation. "With the best operating cost in the category of jets up to 100 seats, The E190 will bring more efficiency and flexibility to TAP Express operations, and provide unparalleled passenger comfort.
In addition to the flight Lisbon/Nice/Lisbon, the new E190 also operated Lisbon/Barcelona/Lisbon and flew Lisbon/Toulouse (for a night-stop) in its first day in operation with TAP Express.