Austrian Airlines to replace Fokker fleet with E195s from Lufthansa CityLine

Austrian Airlines announced (12-Mar-2015) plans to commence the renewal of its medium-haul fleet in autumn 2015, with the refleeting to be completed in 2017. The carrier plans to replace its fleet of 21 Fokker 70 and Fokker 100 aircraft with an initial 17 Embraer E195 aircraft from Lufthansa CityLine, with the first E195 to enter commercial service "before the end of 2015." The plan is subject to approval by the carrier's supervisory board at a meeting scheduled for 19-Mar-2015. Austrian Airlines stated: "The Embraer 195 aircraft currently have an average age of four years (built 2009-2012), compared to the average age of 21 years for the Austrian Airlines Fokker fleet. The value of a new Embraer 195 jet is about USD 52 million. Details are currently being worked out on how Austrian Airlines will finance the aircraft." Austrian Airlines CEO Jaan Albrecht said: "We are pleased with the decision on the part of the Lufthansa Group, which comprises a vote of confidence in Austrian Airlines. As a result, we can invest in a new and more modern fleet earlier than planned." Mr Albrecht added: "We spent a long time considering which option would be the best solution for Austrian Airlines. The Embraer jets are excellent and well-established aircraft. As you know, we also recently took a look at the Bombardier C-Series. We ultimately decided in favour of the Group solution. It enables us to begin the fleet renewal program this year." [more - original PR - English/German]