RJ acquires two Embraer E195-E2, unveils fleet expansion plan

AMMAN — Under the patronage of HRH Prince Feisal, Royal Jordanian (RJ) on Thursday acquired two Embraer E195-E2 for its aircraft fleet, bringing additional flexibility to the expansion of the company’s fleet modernisation plan.

The national carrier during the aircraft reception ceremony, announced that it operates a fleet of 29 planes (the two new aircraft included). Adding that its fleet will expand to have a total of 41 aircraft by the end of 2028.

The company’s all-new Embraer E195-E2 are fuel efficient, consuming 25 per cent less fuel.

“From now and up until 2025, almost all short/medium-haul aircraft will be replaced,” revealed RJ CEO Samer Majali who said that RJ is oriented towards making Amman the focal point between Jordan and the Arab East, and by doing so it is planning to expand the network connecting the Arab Orient to Europe, the United States and other international destinations. In addition to its focus on maintaining the reputation of the brand.

According to Majali, the airline’s expansion plans involve introducing eight aircraft in 2024, 16 in 2025, 5 in 2026 and three in 2026, and 2027, respectively. He added that the average age of RJ’s current aircraft fleet is about 13 years.

As for the company’s fleet details, he said that RJ has four Embraers, 15 Airbus and seven Boeing aircraft.

“RJ has established an outstanding reputation in the region…this helps expand RJ’s horizons and international network.” Majali pointed out, noting that RJ collaborates with various entities including the Jordan Tourism Board, the Jordan Hotels Association, Airport International Group, and the Jordan Inbound Tour Operators Association, to develop a comprehensive strategy that achieves sustainable and dynamic growth in the local tourism industry.

“We seek to expand our reach through connecting more cities and increasing flight frequency…bringing about a paradigm shift from 11 million to 80 million passengers.” the RJ CEO explained.

The national carrier’s introduction of the two new aircraft will increase the frequency of flights, strengthen RJ’s regional presence and improve customer satisfaction.

Referencing statistics released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Majali said that RJ’s contribution to GDP in 2019 was 2.5 per cent — the equivalent of $0.98 billion, creating around 31,000 jobs.

Further, IATA statistics predicted the increase of RJ’s contribution to GDP, reaching 4.3 per cent by 2028. This equals $2.07 billion, with an increase in employment to 55,000.

The process of introducing new aircraft into an airline fleet involves a detailed and measured assessment of the operational costs, financial feasibility, aircraft replacement costs, maintenance costs and support services.

Regarding shaping the company’s overall image, the RJ CEO, said that the company is working on renewing its visual identity, noting that among the many reasons for the company’s orientation to fleet renewal is the high aircraft operating costs of older planes, in addition to the need to improve RJ’s competitiveness in light of competing companies’ aircraft fleet renewal.