VIRGIN AUSTRALIA: Unveils Embraer E190-E2 Interiors

Virgin Australia Regional Airlines (VARA) has released details of the interiors of the brand-new Embraer E190-E2 cabin layout. The airline has opted for a dual-class configuration primarily for use in Western Australia’s charter market. It’s a significant upgrade from the aging Fokker 100 fleet.

No more middle seats

The E190-E2 jets, which begin assembly this month, will feature both Business Class and Economy Class, with an added Economy X option for extra legroom. This makes them the first new aircraft to join the WA charter market this century.

“Our customers are excited about the two-plus-two layout in Economy, which means no middle seats. There’s also more cabin space, so every guest will have room for a bag in the overhead bin.””

Nathan Miller, VARA’s Executive General Manager.

You’ll have to wait until October 2025 for the first aircraft, named Coral Bay to enter service. Three more aircraft will follow in the next 12 months.

E190 tech and sustainability

The aircraft will be equipped with high-bandwidth Wi-Fi (although the first three aircraft will be retrofitted in 2026), in-seat power, and streaming entertainment using passengers’ own devices.

Miller also claims the E2 is the most fuel-efficient aircraft in its segment and will reduce emissions by up to 30% compared to the outgoing Fokker 100s. The aircraft are quieter too, which will be a boon to residents given that many flights leave early in the morning.

E190 heralds growth

The E190-E2 provides opportunities for growth in both charter and commercial operations. That’s good since VARA is actively planning fleet expansion and network growth.

To that end, VARA will also ramp up pilot recruitment and training. Maintenance training is already underway in Perth, with pilot training set to begin at Embraer’s training facility in Singapore. Vara also plans to erect a new hangar at Perth Airport.

2PAXfly Takeout

The Embraer E190 has an interesting two-class layout. There are a couple of solo business class seats on one side and pairs on the other, for a total of 8 Business Class seats.

Economy is arranged 2-2, so there are no cursed middle seats. Some extra legroom will also be available in Economy X seats, which will be available for an additional fee. The X seats also have reserved overhead storage for guests’ carry-on bags. 

The cabin looks good, and although not revolutionary, it’s sure a step up from those Fokkers.