Virgin Australia Brings New E190-E2 Jet Into Service in Western Australia
Virgin Australia Group has marked a major step in Western Australia’s charter market with the arrival of its first Embraer E190-E2 aircraft, named Coral Bay. The jet has already completed its first commercial flight between Perth and Boolgeeda, becoming the region’s first brand-new aircraft of this type introduced in decades. Operated by Virgin Australia Regional Airlines (VARA), the aircraft now begins regular work across the state.
The new jet is designed with Western Australia’s operational conditions in mind, particularly mining regions where shorter runways and high temperatures are common. According to the airline, the aircraft offers stronger performance, better reliability, and lower fuel use than the outgoing F100 fleet. Its arrival also signals the start of VARA’s plan to bring eight E190-E2 aircraft into service over the next three years, replacing older models entirely by early 2026.
“Coral Bay marks a major milestone not just for VARA but for regional aviation in Western Australia. The E190-E2 is currently the world’s quietest and most fuel-efficient single-aisle jet in its class, with the design and range to meet the challenges of the mining regions we operate across the state."
Passengers using the charter network will notice several improvements on board. The aircraft includes wider seats, larger overhead bins, in-seat power, Wi-Fi capability, and streaming entertainment through personal devices. It also features both Business and Economy cabins - a first for Western Australia’s charter market. VARA highlighted the jet’s quiet operation and design fit for remote destinations as key benefits for regular routes serving mining communities.
The introduction of the E190-E2 also opens access to more comfortable and better-equipped flights on days when charter demand is lower and leisure traffic increases. Destinations linked to Perth’s regional network, including areas near popular coastal spots, national parks, and remote town, may now see improved seating, smoother flights, and stronger schedule reliability. For many passengers flying to work sites or planning occasional short breaks, the updates make regional journeys noticeably easier.
As the new fleet takes shape, Western Australia’s charter and regional air network is entering a more consistent phase. With the new jets slowly replacing the older F100s, passengers should notice quieter cabins, more reliable flights, and a clearer balance between work-day charter services and days aimed at leisure travel. This change highlights Virgin Australia’s steady work in Western Australia, supporting links with remote areas and lifting the comfort of regular flights.