Bridges Air Cargo Joins Aviation History with First Embraer E190F Freighter

Post by : Meena Rani

Bridges Air Cargo, the Maltese cargo airline, has officially taken delivery of its first Embraer E190 converted freighter (E190F), marking a significant milestone for both the airline and the aviation industry. The carrier was declared as the first operator of the converted E190 freighter in June 2025.

The aircraft is owned by US lessor Regional One, and the airline expects to receive its second E190F soon, reflecting its ongoing expansion in the air cargo market.

Expanding Cargo Operations for Express and Courier Services

Bridges Air Cargo specializes in providing logistics solutions for the express and courier industry, serving high-demand clients such as FedEx, DHL, and UPS. With the addition of the E190F to its fleet, the airline aims to improve operational efficiency, expand service routes, and optimize cargo delivery schedules.

The E190F will enable the airline to handle urgent and high-value shipments while maintaining reliability for global customers.

Embraer E190F: Certification and Capabilities

Earlier this year, Embraer confirmed that the E190 converted freighter had received full certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The aircraft has also been certified by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Civil Aviation Agency of Brazil, ensuring compliance with international airworthiness standards.

The certification validates the E190F’s structural integrity, safety, and operational efficiency as a dedicated cargo aircraft.

The E-Jet Freighter Program

Embraer launched the E-Jet freighter program in March 2022, focusing on converting E190 and E195 passenger jets into freighters. The program provides airlines with a cost-effective solution for modern air cargo operations, combining the advantages of jet speed with cargo flexibility.

The E-Jet freighters offer up to 40% more volume capacity, three times the range of large cargo turboprops, and up to 30% lower operating costs than larger narrowbody aircraft.

Technical Specifications of the E190F and E195F

The Embraer E190F maximizes cargo efficiency, with a maximum structural payload of 13,500 kg. Cargo is distributed both under the floor and on the main deck, optimizing space for varied shipment types.

The larger E195F variant offers a payload of 14,300 kg, catering to operators requiring additional cargo volume without compromising operational flexibility.

With its jet-powered range and advanced cargo configuration, the E190F is ideal for regional and short-to-medium haul operations, bridging the gap between smaller turboprops and larger narrowbody freighters.

Strategic Impact on Bridges Air Cargo

By adding the E190F to its fleet, Bridges Air Cargo positions itself as a pioneer in the E190 freighter market, leveraging the aircraft’s efficiency and flexibility to gain a competitive edge. This move aligns with global trends in express logistics and e-commerce air transport, where speed, reliability, and adaptability are critical.

The airline’s fleet expansion reflects broader industry confidence in converted freighters, as carriers increasingly seek cost-effective, high-performance jets to meet growing cargo demand.

Bridges Air Cargo’s delivery of the first Embraer E190F marks a historic milestone in aviation logistics. With full certification from EASA, FAA, and Brazil’s ANAC, the E190F exemplifies modern freighter technology, combining advanced payload capabilities, operational range, and reduced costs. Bridges Air Cargo is now set to leverage this new fleet to meet growing regional and global cargo demands, shaping the future of air freight transport.

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