Air Canada, Embraer sign Purchase Agreement for 45 Aircraft

Air Canada today announced that it has signed a definitive purchase agreement with Embraer covering firm orders for 45 EMBRAER 190 aircraft configured to seat 93 passengers. The purchase agreement also contains rights to exercise options for up to 45 additional EMBRAER 190 aircraft as well as providing for conversion rights to other Embraer models. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in November 2005.

"The introduction of new generation small jet aircraft to our fleet is a key component of Air Canada's restructuring business plan to implement high frequency, low-cost services on new and existing routes in Canada and the United States," said Robert Milton, President and Chief Executive Officer.

"Consistent with this strategy, we will deploy Embraer's state-of-the-art aircraft to pursue strategic market opportunities in North America while offering customers a premium travel experience with enhanced space, comfort and convenient schedules," he said.

Air Canada will configure the EMBRAER 190 aircraft in two classes of service with 9 seats in Executive Class with three abreast seating offering 38 inches of legroom, and 84 seats in Hospitality with four abreast seating offering 33 inches of legroom. Both cabins will feature spacious overhead bins. The EMBRAER 190 aircraft has a cruising speed of 854 km/h and a range of up to 4,100 km with a maximum payload of 12,720 kg.