[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QeQ0cjXIt-U&w=560&h=315%5D

TAP Portugal’s first Embraer 190 is already flying across the European skies, operating on the company’s regional network in TAP Express livery. The new E190, CS-TPW (msn 19000550), made its maiden flight for TAP on Monday, May 23, with flight TP488, from Lisbon to Nice (France), departing Lisbon at 08:55 am.

The entry into service of the E190 aircraft is part of TAP’s regional fleet renewal strategy – the fleet will soon include nine E190 and eight ATR 72 aircraft – operating for TAP Express, the new branded product recently launched by TAP. TAP Express now replaces former PGA for regional operations, thus reinforcing TAP’s corporate identity and granting a more consistent brand and product.

The E190 aircraft operated by TAP Express will replace the Fokker 100s, which have been in operation for some years. With this new fleet – more modern and efficient – TAP will be able to significantly upgrade services provided to customers, both in comfort and reliability, also improving its operational regularity and punctuality.

With capacity for 106 passengers, the Embraer 190 displays comfortable seats (known as Slim Seats) in a cabin configuration of 2 + 2 seats per row that offer excellent in-flight comfort, and is often considered by passengers as the most comfortable aircraft in its segment.

In addition to the Lisbon-Nice route, the new E190 also operated from Lisbon to Barcelona and Toulouse (for a night-stop) in its first day in operation with TAP Express.

Video: TAP Portugal.