Helvetic Airways’ Embraer E195-E2 Makes Historic Landing at London City Airport

Image generated with Ai

On March 26, 2025, history was made at London City Airport with the landing of the first commercial flight of the Embraer E195-E2 aircraft. Operated by Helvetic Airways on behalf of Swiss International Air Lines, this is now the largest jet to fly out of London City Airport, marking a significant milestone for both the airline and the airport.

Aviation Milestone for Helvetic Airways
Helvetic Airways is making history again, just over three years after becoming the world’s first airline to land an Embraer E190-E2 at London City Airport in autumn 2021. The E195-E2, which boasts a length of 41.5 meters and seating for 134 passengers, is the latest addition to the fleet of Embraer aircraft that have operated at this airport, famous for its steep approach. The E195-E2 now holds the title of the largest aircraft to fly from the airport, further expanding the airline’s capabilities.

The Embraer E195-E2’s design and performance make it a perfect fit for London City’s challenging approach requirements, which demand high precision and specially trained cockpit crews. Helvetic Airways is the only wet-lease operator in the world to have landed three different Embraer aircraft at the airport, providing unparalleled flexibility to its clients. Tobias Pogorevc, CEO of Helvetic Airways, praised the historic achievement, emphasizing the airline’s role in enhancing regional aviation with more efficient and sustainable aircraft.

A Focus on Sustainability and Efficiency
The Embraer E195-E2 not only enhances passenger capacity but also offers outstanding fuel efficiency. With the lowest fuel consumption per seat among all aircraft operating at London City, the E195-E2 significantly contributes to the airport’s sustainability goals. It is part of a broader effort by London City Airport to incorporate cleaner, quieter, and more environmentally friendly aircraft. Alison FitzGerald, CEO of London City Airport, highlighted how the E195-E2 opens up new destinations while allowing the airport to grow without exceeding its passenger cap or increasing the number of flight movements.

The E195-E2’s Environmental Impact
In addition to offering 30% lower CO2 emissions per seat compared to its predecessors, the E195-E2 has a 63% smaller noise footprint, making it one of the most sustainable aircraft in its class. Marie-Louise Philippe, Senior VP of Sales & Marketing at Embraer Commercial Aviation, emphasized that the E195-E2 is the largest, most efficient, and most sustainable aircraft certified for operation at London City Airport.

Furthermore, Embraer is advancing the E2 Enhanced Takeoff System (E2TS), which, once certified, will boost the E195-E2’s range from 3200 km to 4000 km. This expansion in range will make exciting new destinations like Istanbul, Gran Canaria, Casablanca, Athens, and Cairo accessible from London City for the first time, opening up more travel options for passengers.

A Bright Future for London City Airport
The introduction of the E195-E2 to London City Airport is a significant step toward a more sustainable future for aviation, highlighting the growing importance of efficient and environmentally friendly aircraft. With its expanded range and capacity, the Embraer E195-E2 is set to become a cornerstone of London City’s evolving air service offerings.

Image: London City Airport