On Aug. 28, Embraer delivered the first of five Embraer 190 jets to China's Kunpeng Airlines Co. Ltd., one of the largest operators on the Chinese regional aviation market.

In July 2008, during the 46th Farnborough Airshow, in the UK, Embraer announced a firm order for five Embraer 190 jets by Kunpeng.

"We are very glad to see our Embraer 190 serving more Chinese passengers through the reliable operation of Kunpeng Airlines," said Mauro Kern, Embraer Executive Vice President - Airline Market. "We believe that the Embraer 190, with its superior performance, economics and comfort, will meet our Chinese customer's fleet needs, and contribute to its growth plans and success."

The aircraft is configured to comfortably accommodate 98 passengers in a dual-class layout, and will enhance significantly Kunpeng's operational capability.

"We are very pleased to take delivery of our first Embraer 190 jet, which we believe will be an ideal aircraft for us to explore the emerging Chinese regional aviation market," said Mr. Li Kun, Vice Chairman of the Board and President of Shenzhen Airlines Co., Ltd. "With this reliable new model entering service, we will be dedicated to building our company into the most sizable, characteristic and competitive regional airline in mainland China."

Kunpeng Airlines is a joint venture between China's Shenzhen Airlines and the Mesa Air Group, of the United States, with the Chinese party holding the larger share. It officially started operations in September 2007, and has established more than 20 routes to date.

Photograph: The first Embraer 190 jet delivered to China's Kunpeng Airlines arrived at Xi'an Xianyang International Airport on the afternoon of Sep. 2, marking the joining of a new aircraft type in the airline's fleet.