Embraer has strengthened its long-standing partnership with Airlink, Southern Africa’s largest independent airline, through an expanded Component Pool Program agreement that will now support ten additional Embraer E195-E2 aircraft. The new jets are being introduced to Airlink’s fleet through leases with Azorra, further advancing the carrier’s fleet modernisation and operational efficiency plans.
With this latest expansion, Embraer’s Pool Program will cover a total of 78 aircraft, ensuring enhanced component availability, reduced maintenance downtime, and improved operational reliability across Airlink’s network. The agreement underscores Airlink’s continued confidence in Embraer’s aftermarket support capabilities, having operated an all-Embraer fleet since 2001.
Today, Airlink serves 47 destinations across 15 Southern and East African countries, including services to Madagascar, St Helena Island, and non-commercial charter flights to Ascension Island in the South Atlantic. The airline’s growing regional footprint has increased the demand for steady parts availability and predictable maintenance cycles—areas in which the Pool Program plays a strategic role.
Strengthening Fleet Performance and Reliability
The Component Pool Program provides airlines with access to Embraer’s extensive inventory of spare parts, technical expertise, and global services network. By leveraging shared resources instead of maintaining their own large stock of components, operators benefit from significant cost savings, streamlined logistics, and faster turnaround times for repairs.
For Airlink, integrating the E195-E2 fleet into the program ensures continuity in performance standards while supporting the airline’s ambitious growth trajectory. The E2 jets, known for their reduced fuel consumption, lower emissions, and improved passenger comfort, are expected to enhance Airlink’s competitiveness in regional markets.
Leadership Perspectives
“Expanding the Embraer component inventory agreement to cover our new Embraer E195-E2s provides the security we need as we deploy the aircraft,” said de Villiers Engelbrecht, CEO of Airlink. “This support will help us achieve the maximum operational, commercial, and economic benefits expected from these new additions to our fleet.”
Carlos Naufel, President and CEO of Embraer Services & Support, highlighted the importance of the collaboration:
“We are proud to support Airlink’s E2 operations, a flagship example of innovation and efficiency in regional aviation. Embraer values the trust Airlink has placed in our aircraft and services. This expanded Pool Program agreement reinforces our commitment to operational excellence and our role in supporting Airlink’s growth strategy in the region.”
A Comprehensive Support Ecosystem
Embraer’s Pool Program is designed to optimise airline operations by providing guaranteed service levels, reduced warehousing needs, and predictable maintenance costs. Powered by Embraer’s global services infrastructure, the program enables operators to focus on core operations while relying on manufacturer-backed component availability and technical support.
As Airlink integrates its E2 aircraft into scheduled operations, the expanded agreement is expected to deliver tangible benefits in reliability, cost efficiency, and fleet performance—further solidifying the airline’s position as a leading regional carrier in Africa.
