BA buys 'fuel-efficient' jets

British Airways today said it had ordered a fleet of fuel-efficient aircraft for use on short haul routes in an order worth around £252m (€266m).

The airline said the 11 new generation Embraer jets would emit “significantly” lower carbon dioxide than the aircraft they replace.

They will operate from London City Airport under BA’s CityFlyer subsidiary on routes to Scotland, Ireland and Europe.

The airline said it had ordered six Embraer 170 and five Embraer 190SR efficiency jets, known as E-jets, with options for three more in an investment worth $376m (€267m).

BA said the E-jets have a “double-bubble” fuselage design, meaning each passenger will have more space.

They will replace the current fleet of 10 Arvo RJ100 and two RJ85 aircraft operated by CityFlyer.

BA said the Embraer 170 would be 56% more fuel efficient than the previous fleet, while the 190SR would be 28% more efficient.

Peter Simpson, managing director of BA CityFlyer, said: “We are very excited about this new fleet of fuel efficient aircraft which will not only help us to meet our environmental objectives but also provide more space and comfort for our customers.

“This significant investment in new aircraft further demonstrates British Airways’ commitment to services into and out of London City for our customers.

“Having the combination of the Embraer 170s and 190SRs in the same fleet will give us greater flexibility, enabling us to match capacity with demand on routes within our existing and future network.”