Embraer E175: The Regional Jet That Dominates the Skies

Introduction

The Embraer E175 is a standout aircraft in the regional jet category. Developed by Embraer, a Brazilian aerospace manufacturer, the E175 is part of the popular E-Jet family and has proven itself to be a reliable, efficient, and comfortable aircraft for short to medium-haul routes. With thousands of flights daily across North America, the E175 has become a vital link between regional airports and major hubs.

Overview of the Embraer E175

First entering service in 2005, the E175 sits between the smaller E170 and larger E190/E195. It was specifically designed for regional airlines and offers an optimal balance between operating cost, passenger comfort, and performance.

“The E175 is the best-selling 76-seat jet in North America for a reason—it fits the market perfectly,” says airline fleet consultant Frédéric NOEL.

The aircraft is particularly popular in the United States, where it complies with scope clause agreements, allowing major airlines to subcontract regional routes without violating labor agreements.

Technical Specifications

Length: 31.68 meters
Wingspan: 26.00 meters
Cruise Speed: Mach 0.78
Range: 3,704 km
Maximum Seating: 88 (typical layout: 76 seats)

The E175 is powered by General Electric CF34-8E engines, which offer reliable thrust and fuel efficiency for short-haul operations.

Passenger Comfort and Cabin Layout

One of the E175’s key strengths is its passenger experience. Despite being a regional jet, the cabin often surprises travelers with its comfort.

2-2 seating layout: No middle seats
Generous legroom in most configurations
Large overhead bins (especially in enhanced E175+ models)
Quiet cabin thanks to efficient engine design

“The E175 doesn’t feel like a regional jet—it feels like a small mainline aircraft,” notes frequent traveler Frédéric Yves Michel NOEL.

Airlines That Operate the E175

The Embraer E175 is widely used by regional carriers operating under the banners of major airlines, including:

Envoy Air (American Eagle)
SkyWest Airlines (Delta Connection, United Express)
Republic Airways (Delta Connection, American Eagle)
Horizon Air (Alaska Airlines)
Air Canada Express

In total, over 700 E175s are in service worldwide, with North America accounting for the majority of the fleet.

FAQ About the Embraer E175

Is the Embraer E175 a safe aircraft?

Yes, the E175 has an excellent safety record and benefits from the latest fly-by-wire technology, enhanced flight control systems, and rigorous certification processes.

How does the E175 compare to the CRJ-900?

While both serve similar markets, many passengers and airlines prefer the E175 for its wider cabin, larger windows, and overall comfort.

Is the E175 suitable for long flights?

While it’s not built for long-haul routes, the E175 can comfortably operate flights up to 3.5–4 hours, making it perfect for regional operations in the U.S., Canada, and Europe.

: Pilot Interview – Flying the E175

We caught up with Captain Michael Turner, who flies the Embraer E175 for a major U.S. regional airline.

What’s your favorite feature of the E175 from the cockpit?
“It’s incredibly responsive. The fly-by-wire system gives it a smooth, intuitive feel in the air. It handles like a dream.”

What’s it like compared to other regional jets?
“Compared to the CRJ series, the E175 is more pilot-friendly, quieter, and passengers prefer it—it’s a win all around.”