Every time an airline takes delivery of a new aircraft, it symbolises a pivotal moment in its progression. The introduction of the Embraer E190-E2 to Scoot’s fleet signifies more than just an addition; it signifies a substantial advancement in their operational capabilities and passenger services. Renowned for its efficiency and cutting-edge technology, this state-of-the-art aircraft amalgamates innovation with comfort, enhancing the overall service quality provided by Scoot.
Scoot’s Brand New E2 Jet
The inaugural Embraer E190-E2, affectionately dubbed Explorer 3.0, made its debut at Changi Airport today, on 15 April 2024 at noon. Scoot’s inaugural delivery of the E190-E2, named Explorer 3.0, embarked on a transcontinental journey originating from Embraer’s production facility in San Jose dos Campos, Brazil. This journey involved multiple stops before reaching its destination. The aircraft’s first refuelling stop occurred in Recife, followed by a subsequent leg to Gran Canaria. Subsequently, it proceeded to Athens but encountered a deviation in its route due to unforeseen airspace closures in the Middle East. As a result, the aircraft flew to Baku from Athens instead of its initially planned destination of Dubai. After a brief stay in Baku, the aircraft continued its journey to Hyderabad, then Phuket, before concluding its expedition with a final leg to Singapore after three days. Upon its arrival in Singapore, the aircraft was greeted with a water cannon salute.
Explorer 3.0, is slated to assume operational duties for Scoot current routes to Krabi and Hat Yai starting on 7 May 2024, thereby elevating flight frequencies to these destinations from 7 to 10 weekly flights. The induction of this aircraft into Scoot’s fleet will enable operations to four additional cities – Koh Samui, Kuantan, Miri, and Sibu – with daily flights to Koh Samui commencing on 13 May 2024. Together with destinations served by Scoot’s existing fleet, the airline will operate 103 weekly flights to Malaysia and 92 weekly flights to Thailand by June 2024.
The inclusion of Koh Samui and Sibu in Scoot’s network will expand its coverage to 69 destinations, enhancing regional connectivity and reinforcing Singapore’s pivotal hub status.
In a statement, Scoot emphasized, ‘Our fleet expansion underscores our confidence in the sustained growth of air travel demand in this region. We remain committed to exploring new prospects and pushing boundaries to provide our customers with access to an ever-expanding array of destinations, all while maintaining our hallmark value proposition.”
The addition of the E2 jet to Scoot’s fleet brings the total number of narrow-body and widebody jetliner operated by Scoot to 54.
Aircraft | Total | On Order |
Airbus A320 | 17 | - |
Airbus A320NEO | 6 | - |
Airbus A321NEO | 9 | - |
Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner | 11 | - |
Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner | 10 | 2 |
Embraer E190-E2 | 1 | 8 |
54 | 10 |
Table 1 Scoot's updated fleet as of 15 April 2024.
Scoot’s Embraer E190-E2 jet boasts a full economy cabin designed in a 2-2 seating configuration, accommodating up to 112 passengers. This arrangement differs from its larger counterpart, the Airbus A320 family, which adopts a 3-3 configuration. The 2-2 layout offers passengers the luxury of selecting preferred seats, be it by the window or aisle, providing increased flexibility and spatial comfort during the journey.
The Embraer E190-E2
The Embraer E190-E2 epitomises the pinnacle of modern aviation, showcasing cutting-edge technology and unmatched innovation. As the latest addition to Embraer’s esteemed E-Jet E2 family, this aircraft signifies a significant advancement in terms of efficiency, comfort, and environmental conscientiousness.
Boasting advanced aerodynamics, state-of-the-art engines, and a generously spacious cabin design, the E190-E2 revolutionises the aviation experience for passengers and airlines alike. Its fuel-efficient engines not only contribute to reduced operating expenses but also plays a pivotal role in minimising environmental impact, aligning seamlessly with the industry’s escalating emphasis on sustainability.
Specifications | Embraer E190-E2 Jet |
Length | 36.25m |
Height | 10.96m |
Wingspan | 33.72m |
Max. Take-Off Weight | 56,400kg |
Max. Payload | 13,500kg |
Take-Off | 1,450m |
Landing | 1,215m |
Cruise Speed | M0.78 |
Service Ceiling | 41,000ft |
Range | ~5200km |
Engine | Pratt & Whitney PW1900g |
Table 2 Embraer E190-E2 Specifications
Powered by dual Pratt & Whitney PW1900G engines, the E190-E2 boasts an impressive range of 5200km, enabling non-stop flight durations of up to 5 hours. Accommodating around 114 passengers in a single-class configuration, this jetliner features a minimal take-off distance of merely 1,450m. Such specifications render the E190-E2 suitable for airlines to service regional destinations with lower demand or airports with size restrictions, thanks to its adeptness at navigating shorter runways.
Scoot currently holds the distinction of being the first carrier in Southeast Asia to operate the E2 Jets series aircraft, a notable achievement highlighting its commitment to technological advancement. Within the region, Myanmar Airways International operates two Embraer ERJ-190 aircraft, while Bamboo Airways previously operated a fleet of 5 Embraer ERJ-190 and 5 ERJ-195 jets, although these have since been returned to their lessors, showcasing the dynamic landscape of aircraft utilisation in the region.
Embraer’s journey in establishing a robust presence in the Southeast Asia market has indeed been met with challenges and hurdles. The aviation market in this region is fiercely competitive, with industry giants like Airbus and Boeing dominating, creating an environment where smaller manufacturers must strategically position themselves. Airlines in Southeast Asia typically favour larger aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 family due to their higher capacity, posing a challenge for Embraer E-Jets series, including the E190-E2, designed for regional and short-haul routes with lower passenger demand. This discrepancy in aircraft size and demand presents a complex puzzle for airlines seeking to integrate the E2 Jets into their fleet and operational strategies.
However, despite these obstacles, Embraer remains steadfast in its pursuit of opportunities within Southeast Asia. The company has adopted a tailored approach, focusing on delivering solutions that cater to the region’s specific requirements for fuel efficiency and operational flexibility. By targeting niche market segments and investing in targeted marketing initiatives to bolster brand recognition and trust, Embraer has been able to carve out a niche for itself in this competitive landscape.
Embraer’s efforts extend beyond mere market presence; the company has actively showcased its technological prowess and advancements by debuting the Embraer E190-E2 and E195-E2 Jets at renowned airshows in Asia. This strategic move not only underscores Embraer’s commitment to innovation but also serves as a platform to attract airline seeking cutting-edge regional jet solutions. These initiatives collectively highlight Embraer’s resilience and strategic acumen in navigating the complexities of the Southeast Asia aviation market.
SIA Group Returns to Koh Samui
Scoot’s decision to introduce flights to Koh Samui holds significant historical importance in Singapore’s aviation landscape. This route was previously serviced by SilkAir using the Airbus A319 before the COVID-19 pandemic. After the SilkAir merger with Singapore Airlines, the A319 was returned to its lessors, resulting in a hiatus in service due to Koh Samui’s airport limitations that restricted aircraft size to that of the Airbus A319.
The introduction of the Embraer E190-E2, which adheres to Koh Samui’s aircraft size restrictions and is smaller than the maximum permitted size, now enables the SIA Group to re-establish its presence in the Koh Samui market after a 4-year absence. During this period, Bangkok Airways had a monopoly on the Singapore-Koh Samui route, offering two daily flights using the A319 and charging high fares of up to S$700 for a roundtrip, with limited flight timing.
Scoot’s return to Koh Samui not only signifies its strategic expansion but also highlights the airline industry resilience. The addition of a new Scoot service to Koh Samui aims to provide passengers with more affordable fares and improved flight timings, enhancing convenience and accessibility to this popular destination once again.
Scoot Embraer E190-E2 Flight Schedule
Scoot intends to deploy the Embraer E190-E2 to two novel destinations, Koh Samui and Sibu, alongside the existing destinations served by Scoot’s current fleet of aircraft – Hat Yai, Kuantan, and Miri. With the introduction of the initial two E2 jets, Scoot will facilitate direct connections to and from Singapore, bolstering the SIA Group’s influence and operational prowess in non-metropolitan cities throughout Southeast Asia. This strategic move will empower Scoot to seamlessly connect passengers to and through the Singapore hub, leveraging the airline’s expansive network and connective capabilities.
Krabi, Thailand
Scoot has scheduled the operation of two flights to Krabi, designated as TR684/685 and TR690/691. The inaugural Embraer E190-E2 flight, TR684 is set to commence operations of 7 May 2024, while TR690/691 is slated to begin services on 9 May 2024.
Hat Yai, Thailand
Scoot is set to inaugurate flights to Hat Yai following the launch of its flights to Krabi. The airline will operate two flights to Hat Yai, designated as TR630/631 and TR632/633. TR630/631 is scheduled to commence operations on 7 May 2024, while TR632/633 will begin services on 8 May 2024. However, starting 10 May 2024, TR632/633 will operate at a later timing, as per operational requirements.
Koh Samui, Thailand
The highly anticipated commence of flight services to Koh Samui by Scoot is set to take effect from 13 May 2024. Initially, the airline will operate one flight to Samui, with plans to increase flight services starting from June 2024. Scoot’s operations to Koh Samui includes two flights, designated as TR642/643 and TR640/641. TR642/643 is scheduled to begin operations on 13 May 2024, while TR640/641 will commence on 27 May 2024, initially offering 3 weekly flights before transitioning to daily flight services from 6 June 2024.
Miri, Malaysia
Scoot is scheduled to resume flight operations to Miri starting from 20 May 2024, with the introduction of a 4-weekly flight, identified as TR418/419.
Scoot has set so many new destinations for the Embraer E190-E2, making the aircraft a fantastic addition to Scoot's current fleet. Be sure to catch them in the air soon! Till the next one.
Credits: Photos by Cornelius Kwok & Malcolm Lu
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