Azorra, a leasing firm with a strong focus on small narrowbody aircraft, placed an order with Embraer for 20 E-190F cargo aircraft, plus 10 options, during the 2026 Farnborough International Airshow.
These aircraft will go through the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer’s Passenger-to-Freight (P2F) program, which gives a new lease of life to used E-Jet airliners by transforming them into cargo aircraft.
Embraer launched its in-house P2F program in 2022, with the first E190F converted into a freighter entering service in March 2026. Brazilian airline Azul, however, decided not to wait and its own E-Jet P2F conversion (performed in collaboration with LHColus Technologia) was certified in 2024.
Embraer is marketing the E190F as an alternative to ageing fleets of B737 Classic freighters as well as smaller turboprop aircraft that are the workhorse of many air cargo companies. According to Embraer, the E190F can deliver 30% lower operating costs compared to a B737 Classic while offering a similar cargo volume and range. When compared to large cargo turboprops, the E190F can offer a 35% increase in volume capacity, three times the range, and significantly lower noise levels.
What’s more, as many first-generation E-Jet operators start to replace their fleets with newer E2 jets, a pool of used aircraft will start trickling into the market, available for freighter conversions.
Announcing the deal, John Evans, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Azorra, said: “This investment reflects our confidence in the aircraft and extending its useful life. The E-Jet Freighter is an ideal replacement for older 737 freighters, offering reliable, Stage 4 noise-compliant operations [an ICAO/FAA noise certification standard – ed. note] and, with Azorra’s CF34 engine program [the leasing firm has its own program to support the CF34 engines that power the E-Jets – ed. Note], unmatched operating costs.”