Originally Posted by
Softpayman
Which is why they're replacing the 190's even though they still have life in them. Both the C Series and E2 expand opportunities and lower operating costs. I'm sure they'd like the C Series, the question is at what price.
I bet the E2 will be cheaper because Embraer has more to lose.... Imagine 60 used E190 airframes on the market and also losing one of the original E190 customers... Embraer will be motivated and no doubt the E2 will be offered at a cheaper price per unit. But the E2 is also less capable than the CSeries (especially the CS300) and the interior is basically the same as found on the E190 - no real improvement or innovation. A lot of this depends upon how Robin and team view long term value of the aircraft type (vs a cheap, one-off purchase price) and the route optionality the aircraft type provides.
If JB feels the need to differentiate itself in a crowded low-cost market, the E190/E2 won’t help. You need to offer frequency and a non-cattle car interior to win higher margin travelers. Word is that Delta is looking at placing a big number of CS100s in the NY market due to the importance of business travelers who hate flying on RJs with uncomfortable seats and small overhead bins. With lower unit breakeven costs, Air Canada will also be using CS300s on flights to many key NE business markets.