Monday, 27 October 2025: Virgin Australia Group has today introduced the first brand new aircraft to Western Australia’s charter market this century with the entry into service of its first Embraer E190-E2 aircraft ‘Coral Bay’.
Coral Bay completed its inaugural commercial flight (VA9217) operated by Virgin Australia Regional Airlines (VARA) departing Perth at 7:15am and arriving in Boolgeeda at 9:05am (AWST).
The E190-E2 brings enhanced passenger comfort to the airline’s charter clients, greater operational efficiency, reliability and sustainability credentials, and is purpose-built for the unique demands of Western Australia’s mining regions, including shorter runways and higher temperatures.
Onboard features include wider seats than the airline’s outgoing F100s, ample overhead bin space, Wi-Fi connectivity and in-flight entertainment (via a guest’s own personal device) [1], in-seat power and a dual Business and Economy class configuration in a first for Western Australia’s charter market.
VARA Executive General Manager, Nathan Miller said the introduction of the E190-E2 ushers in a new era for regional aviation in Western Australia.
“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 [2] and most fuel-efficient single-aisle jet in its class [3], with the design and range to meet the challenges of the mining regions we operate to across the state.
“This aircraft sets a new benchmark for comfort, efficiency, and sustainability and ensures we are well-positioned to deliver a premium experience for our customers and the communities we serve today and into the future,” he said.
Coral Bay is the first of eight E190-E2 aircraft set to join VARA’s fleet, with the remaining seven scheduled for delivery through 2025, 2026, and 2027.
The aircraft will primarily operate on VARA’s charter routes across Western Australia but is configured to support regular passenger operations on days with higher leisure demand and lower charter activity.
The E190-E2 fleet will enable VARA to fully retire its F100 aircraft fleet from early 2026.
ENDS
[1] First three aircraft to be retrofitted with Wi-Fi and in-flight entertainment in early 2026.
[2] Source: Embraer based on EASA Certification Noise Levels
[3] Source: Embraer
