LATAM Airlines Brazil and Embraer have marked the start of the delivery process for the Brazilian carrier’s first E195-E2. By introducing the new aircraft type, LATAM intends to expand its domestic network and launch routes to destinations where demand is better suited to a smaller aircraft than its larger narrowbodies.

The first aircraft forms part of a plan to acquire up to 74 E195-E2s, announced by LATAM Airlines Group in September 2025. The Brazilian carrier is scheduled to take delivery of 12 aircraft by the end of 2026, with a further 12 planned for 2027.

The new fleet is expected to support LATAM’s continued growth in Brazil, where the airline has increased the number of airports it serves from 44 to 63 over the past six years. It aims to exceed 70 airports during 2027 and is assessing the viability of adding up to 18 new destinations that year using the E195-E2.

During the first phase, the first 14 aircraft are scheduled to operate across 42 routes, including eight new services. Four new destinations will also join the network: Cabo Frio and Macaé in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Ji-Paraná in Rondônia, and Rondonópolis in Mato Grosso. Once this plan is implemented, LATAM will operate the largest domestic network in its history in Brazil. The first aircraft are scheduled to enter service progressively between November 2026 and March 2027.

“We chose the E195-E2 with a clear objective: to continue expanding LATAM’s presence in Brazil sustainably. With the E2, we will connect new markets with strong demand and economic potential to our global network, allowing us to surpass the milestone of 70 airports served in Brazil as early as 2027,” said Jerome Cadier, CEO of LATAM Airlines Brazil.

LATAM’s E195-E2s will feature 136 seats in a 2–2 layout, with no middle seats. Passengers will be offered Premium Economy and Economy cabins, with Premium Economy comprising up to 20 seats, depending on the configuration. This cabin will offer additional legroom, greater seat recline and enhanced onboard service.

Cabin amenities will include USB-C ports at every seat and free Wi-Fi for registered LATAM Pass members. Passengers will also have access to LATAM Play, the airline’s entertainment platform offering films, TV series, music and other content.

Before entering commercial service, the first aircraft must complete the remaining procedures, including customs formalities, cabin interior approval and the final stages of certification with Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency, ANAC. According to the announcement, LATAM expects to complete certification to operate the E195-E2 approximately one year after announcing the acquisition.

Preparations were accelerated through the use of Embraer’s demonstration aircraft, known as the “Profit Hunter”. LATAM used it for evacuation demonstrations, evaluation flights, and the training and qualification of pilots and cabin crew. According to the companies, this approach roughly halved the time required to complete these procedures while maintaining all safety requirements and standards.

The E195-E2 is the largest member of Embraer’s E-Jets E2 family. The manufacturer lists a range of 3,000 nautical miles, or 5,556 kilometres, and up to 30 per cent lower fuel consumption compared with first-generation E-Jets. For LATAM, its primary role will be to match capacity to demand on individual routes and connect additional Brazilian cities to the airline’s main hubs.