Regional logistics specialist to pioneer Embraer’s E-Jet freighter amid rising demand for mid-size capacity
Bridges Air Cargo has been confirmed as the launch operator of Embraer’s E190F freighter conversion, becoming the first airline globally to deploy the new E-Jet-based cargo aircraft. The milestone marks a significant moment in the regional freighter market, as Embraer and its partners seek to carve out a niche between turboprop and narrowbody capacity.
The aircraft, owned by U.S.-based lessor Regional One, is scheduled to enter service for Bridges Air Cargo in the third quarter of 2025. It will operate on behalf of major integrators and express carriers, including FedEx, DHL, and UPS, reinforcing Bridges’ position in the fast-moving express logistics segment.
“It’s fitting that Bridges becomes the launch customer for the E-Freighter as we celebrate 35 years of operations and over a billion kilograms moved for the express market,” said Guy Bridges, Managing Director of Bridges Air Cargo.
“The E190F fills a unique and underserved segment. It enhances our regional capabilities and opens new route opportunities. We’re proud to partner with Embraer and Regional One on what we view as a pivotal evolution in regional cargo aviation.”
Purpose-Built for Regional E-Commerce and Express Demand
The E190F is part of Embraer’s newly launched E-Jet Freighter Programme, developed to address a clear gap in the cargo aircraft market—providing an efficient, mid-size platform between large turboprops and standard narrowbody freighters.
Capable of carrying a maximum structural payload of 13.5 tonnes, the E190F offers greater range and volumetric capacity than traditional turboprop freighters, while delivering up to 30% lower operating costs compared to older narrowbodies. Embraer’s E195F variant increases payload capacity further to 14.3 tonnes.
“E-Jets converted to freighters will have over 40% more volume than turboprops, three times the range, and far greater fuel efficiency,” said Embraer in a statement.
“This solution is tailor-made for regional express operations and for feeding cargo into hub-and-spoke networks.”
Global Certification and Market Readiness
Earlier this year, the E190F secured full certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), joining previous approvals from both the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Brazil’s ANAC. These clearances pave the way for immediate commercial deployment in key global regions.
Hank Gibson, President of Regional One, said the launch with Bridges reflects growing appetite for flexible, mid-range capacity in the cargo sector.
“Together with Embraer and our valued partners, we are setting a new benchmark in regional freight,” he said.
“The E190F transforms one of the world’s most efficient regional jets into a next-generation freighter. We are proud to support Bridges Air Cargo as they lead the way in redefining regional logistics.”
Meeting the Needs of a Modern Cargo Market
The E-Freighter programme arrives at a time when e-commerce growth, just-in-time delivery pressures, and the reshaping of global supply chains are fuelling demand for point-to-point regional capacity—especially into underserved airports and smaller hubs.
With a platform that blends fuel efficiency, cargo volume, and reach, the E190F and E195F are positioned to replace ageing narrowbodies and freighter turboprops, offering integrators, regionals, and cargo specialists new operational flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
As the first to adopt the platform, Bridges Air Cargo is betting on both innovation and timing—staking a claim in a fast-emerging mid-capacity cargo segment with growing global relevance.
