Virgin Blue Considers Embraer Jets to Replace Existing Fleet

Australian budget carrier Virgin Blue is expected to buy new aircraft and is currently in talks with several suppliers including Brazil's Embraer.

The carrier intends to replace its existing fleet of aircraft, as leases on 30-50 aircraft are expected to expire within the next two to three years, according to Reuters.

Virgin Blue's existing fleet of 68 aircraft comprise of Boeing 737s and Embraer E-190s and E-170s.

Embraer manufactures private jets and smaller commercial aircraft and is looking to win business from Asia's budget and regional carriers as many use single-aisle jets from Boeing and Airbus.