On 24 July 2013, KLM Cityhopper has signed an operational leasing agreement with BOC Aviation for six new aircraft Embraer 190. The order is part of the KLM Cityhopper fleet upgrade program and the replacement of seven aircraft Fokker 70. The six Embraer 190s are expected to join the KLM group between November 2013 and April 2014.
KLM Cityhopper is a subsidiary of KLM and one of the largest regional airlines in Europe. Over 100 000 flights are operated annually between Schiphol and 49 destinations in Europe. The KLM Cityhopper fleet will count on 28 of Embraer 190 and 19 Fokker 70 aircraft, after the new ordered units arrive.
Embraer 190 has lower fuel consumption and lower carbon emissions compared to Fokker 70. An 190 Embraer can carry up to 100 passengers, while the Fokker 70 only has 80 seats. However, KLM Cityhopper will continue to invest and use the Fokker 70 aircraft fleet.