The aircraft completed an epic 25,000-kilometre journey from Embraer’s factory in Brazil and made stops in Texas, Los Angeles, Hawaii, Fiji and Canberra before touching down at its new home base in Western Australia.
On arrival, the aircraft – named Coral Bay – taxied to Virgin Australia Regional Airlines’ (VARA) new state-of-the-art hangar at Perth Airport, where maintenance for the airline’s fleet of E190-E2s will be carried out.
The E190-E2 will primarily service VARA’s charter flights across the state but its dual-class layout – including business class, a first for WA charter operations – gives the airline flexibility to operate regular passenger services when charter demand is quieter.
The cabin is designed for comfort, featuring a two-plus-two layout with no middle seats, ample overhead bin space and in-seat power, delivering a premium experience for all travellers. High speed Wi-Fi will be fitted from early 2026.
“This is a landmark day for aviation in Western Australia,” said Nick Rohrlach, Group Executive, Virgin Australia Regional Airlines.
“The E190-E2 is a game-changer – it is more fuel-efficient, quieter and more comfortable than anything else operating in the state’s charter market today.
“It will significantly improve the travel experience for our charter clients and give us greater flexibility across VARA’s operations.”
When it enters service next month, the aircraft will fly charter routes and also support commercial services primarily within Western Australia to destinations like Darwin, Kalgoorlie, Karratha, Port Hedland and Broome.
“This is the start of an exciting new chapter for Virgin Australia Regional Airlines, which has been part of the aviation landscape in Western Australia for more than 60 years.
“Seeing the aircraft on the ground here in Perth, outside our new maintenance hangar, is a powerful symbol of our long term commitment to Western Australia.”
