British Airways has confirmed orders for a fleet of 11 new generation fuel-efficient aircraft, which assure unrivalled levels of space and comfort on board. BA CityFlyer, the wholly owned subsidiary of BA is to take delivery of the first of its new Embraer aircraft, which will be operated exclusively from London City Airport starting from September 2009.

The airline has also placed firm orders for six Embraer 170 and five Embraer 190SR efficiency jets, labelled as E-jets, besides opting for three more. As per current list prices, the total worth of the investment would be US$376 million.

The airline said the new aircraft will replace the current fleet of 10 Avro RJ100 and two RJ85 aircraft operated by BA CityFlyer, adding that the key concern in ordering these new aircraft is that they are greener and more fuel efficient reporting lower carbon dioxide emissions. The Embraer 190SRs and Embraer 170s will serve on routes from London City Airport to Scotland, Ireland and Europe.

The "double-bubble" fuselage design assures more space for passengers. The four-abreast seating featured throughout the aircraft means everyone will have the choice of either a window or aisle seat.

Peter Simpson, managing director of BA CityFlyer, remarked, "This new fleet of fuel efficient aircraft will not only help us to meet our environmental objectives but also provide more space and comfort for our customers. This significant investment in new aircraft further demonstrates British Airways" commitment to services into and out of London City for our customers.”