Japan Airlines orders Embraer 190-E2s for J-Air regional fleet

Japan Airlines will take up to 26 Embraer 190-E2s to replace the E-Jets flown by its regional subsidiary J-Air. The order, announced on 14 October, covers 16 firm purchases and 10 options. First deliveries are due in fiscal year 2029, which begins 1 March 2029.

J-Air, based at Osaka Itami, operates 32 E-Jets: 18 E175s and 14 E190s.

JAL said the decision responds to rapid changes in the domestic operating environment, including demographic shifts and a resulting fall in demand. The carrier said the E190-E2 suits future market and environmental conditions and will support sustainable domestic operations while continuing to encourage regional revitalisation.

The commitment gives Embraer E2 orders from both of Japan's largest airlines. All Nippon Airways ordered 20 E190-E2s in 2025 and added eight more earlier this year. IBEX Airlines, ANA's Tokyo-based codeshare partner, will fly those aircraft as part of the carrier's plan to outsource domestic flying.

JAL also becomes the newest operator of the E2 family in Asia-Pacific, a region where Embraer hopes to grow its footprint.