Embraer E175-E2 Faces Further Delays, Entry into Service Now Expected in 2027-2028
With the Scope Clause unchanged and its main competitor out of the market, the Brazilian manufacturer has little incentive to continue development, especially since its first-generation model remains the undisputed leader in the segment.
The Embraer E175-E2, the latest addition to the E-Jets E2 family, has experienced multiple delays since its initial development phase. Designed as a replacement for the first-generation E175, this model incorporates several efficiency improvements, including Pratt & Whitney GTF PW1700G engines, a redesigned wing, and a fly-by-wire flight control system. However, Embraer has announced an additional four-year pause, pushing its potential entry into service to 2027-2028 due to regulatory constraints and market conditions.
Development Timeline and Delays
On December 14, 2019, the E175-E2 completed its maiden flight in São José dos Campos, Brazil, kicking off a 24-month flight test program. In 2020, Embraer postponed its entry into service from 2021 to 2023, citing market challenges and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. By 2022, the company announced another three-year delay, attributing it to Scope Clause restrictions in the U.S. regional aviation market. In 2025, Embraer extended the pause by four more years, primarily due to the continued regulatory limitations.
Regulatory Constraints: The Scope Clause
The Scope Clause is a contractual restriction within pilot labor agreements at major U.S. airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. This rule limits regional airlines from operating aircraft with more than 76 seats or a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) exceeding 86,000 lbs (39,000 kg).
Since the E175-E2’s MTOW exceeds this limit, it cannot operate in the U.S. regional market. In contrast, the first-generation E175 complies with the Scope Clause, making it the preferred choice for regional airlines. Unless these regulations change, demand for the E175-E2 will remain low, restricting its commercial viability.
Market Impact and Future Strategy
With limited access to the U.S. regional market, the E175-E2 faces reduced commercial opportunities. Following Bombardier’s exit from the regional jet market after discontinuing the CRJ900, the first-generation E175 remains the dominant option in this segment. Embraer could resume the E175-E2 program if regulations change or if demand grows in other markets.
The repeated delays in the E175-E2’s development highlight the challenges faced by the regional aviation industry, particularly in navigating regulatory barriers and market fluctuations. Despite its efficiency improvements, the Scope Clause remains a major obstacle to its adoption in the U.S., the largest market for regional jets.
Until this situation changes, Embraer will continue focusing on the current E175, which remains the leading aircraft in the regional jet segment.
Comentarios
Para comentar, debés estar registrado
Por favor, iniciá sesión