Embraer has delivered the first factory-new E175 aircraft to Nigerian carrier Air Peace, marking another milestone in the long-standing partnership between the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer and West Africa’s largest airline.
The delivery expands Air Peace’s Embraer fleet, which already includes E195-E2 aircraft and ERJ145 regional jets. The addition of the E175 will provide the airline with greater flexibility to serve domestic and regional routes while increasing connectivity across Nigeria and neighboring African markets.
Supporting Network Expansion
“We are delighted to deliver this first factory-new E175 to our partners at Air Peace,” said Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation. “This delivery highlights the continued demand for right-sized aircraft, with airlines seeking to expand connectivity while maintaining high levels of efficiency and service.”
Air Peace Chairman and CEO Dr. Allen Onyema described the aircraft as an important step in the airline’s growth strategy.
“The delivery of our first Embraer E175 is a major milestone in Air Peace’s growth, reflecting our commitment to boosting domestic and regional travel with a modern, efficient fleet,” Onyema said. “As we strengthen our leadership in West and Central Africa, this aircraft will increase our operational flexibility and market reach while maintaining the safety, reliability and excellent service our passengers expect.”
Designed for Regional Routes
The Embraer E175 is designed for short- and medium-haul operations, offering airlines improved fuel efficiency, lower operating costs and reduced emissions compared with older regional aircraft. Its capacity makes it well suited for thinner routes where larger aircraft may not be economically viable.
For Air Peace, the aircraft is expected to support increased flight frequencies on key domestic routes in Nigeria while enabling the launch of services to four additional destinations across Africa.
Africa’s Growing Aviation Market
According to Embraer’s Africa Connectivity Report 2026, demand for regional air travel across the continent continues to grow, driven by urbanization, economic development and a rising middle class.
The report identifies 55 intra-African city pairs that currently lack direct air services, up from 45 identified in the 2025 edition. Embraer believes right-sized regional aircraft such as the E175 can help airlines open new routes, improve connectivity and stimulate passenger demand across underserved markets.
With the latest delivery, Air Peace continues to modernize its fleet while strengthening its position as one of Africa’s leading airlines, supporting both domestic travel within Nigeria and expanding regional connectivity across West and Central Africa.
