Dutch-based regional aircraft lessor TrueNoord has ordered up to 40 Embraer 195-E2 twinjets, the company’s first direct order with a manufacturer.

The lessor’s pact covers 20 firm aircraft, plus purchase rights for a further 20 – as well as up to 10 new-build Embraer 175s.

TrueNoord chief Anne-Bart Tieleman describes the deal as a “landmark agreement” for the leasing firm.

No delivery dates have been disclosed but TrueNoord values the firm order part at $1.8 billion, using catalogue prices.

TrueNoord E195-E2-c-TrueNoord

Source: TrueNoord

TrueNoord’s agreement covers 20 firm E195-E2s plus purchase rights for 30 other aircraft

“It marks an important stepping stone in our continued growth as a global leasing platform, underlining our commitment to investing in next-generation, fuel-efficient regional jets,” Tieleman adds.

TrueNoord has a portfolio of around 100 regional aircraft including jets and turboprops, with a substantial number acquired from fellow lessor Nordic Aviation Capital.

Embraer has confirmed the agreement.

Chief executive Arjan Meijer says the order is a “strong endorsement” of the E2’s capabilities.

He adds that the E195-E2 model offers “exceptional performance and efficiency”, and is the “ideal choice” for lessors seeking to “future-proof” their fleets.

“This agreement also sends a strong signal to the market,” he says.