SALISBURY, Maryland – Today marks a major milestone in the proud history of Piedmont Airlines, as the airline announces its next chapter – one defined by growth, stability and an unwavering commitment to safety and operational excellence. Beginning in early 2028, Piedmont will expand its fleet to include a new aircraft type: the Embraer 175 (E175). This dual-class aircraft has 76 seats – 12 in Business Class and 64 in Main Cabin. The E175s will also feature high-speed satellite Wi-Fi and power at every seat. The expansion represents a significant investment by parent company American Airlines Group.
The first of 45 new E175s will arrive in the first quarter of 2028 and will begin revenue service a few months later. Piedmont expects to receive one or two new aircraft per month, for 36 months, while continuing to operate its current Embraer 145 aircraft. “Our more than 11,000 team members are the driving force behind everything we achieve,” said Eric Morgan, President and CEO of Piedmont Airlines. “Their dedication opens doors to opportunities like this, and we’re excited about what a new fleet type means for both our team and our customers. More space, more comfort and more style, delivered by the best team in the business.”
This milestone aligns with Piedmont’s long-term vision to build an airline that will thrive forever. “The allocation of new Embraer 175 aircraft to Piedmont is a direct reflection of the Piedmont team’s commitment to safety, operational excellence and customer service,” said Nate Gatten, Executive Vice President of American Eagle, Corporate Real Estate and Government Affairs. “We’re excited for the future of American’s regional network and the important role Piedmont will continue to play in it.”
Founded in 1962, Piedmont (formerly Henson Aviation) has built a reputation combining reliability and operational excellence across the American Eagle portfolio. Over the decades, Piedmont has successfully transitioned through seven aircraft types, adapting with precision and care to meet evolving air travel needs. The last fleet upgrade occurred in 2016, when the company retired its DeHavilland Dash 8 aircraft in favor of the current Embraer 145 jets. Now, with the introduction of a two-class cabin product, Piedmont will be aligned with its peers in the industry.
“Piedmont proudly operates one of the industry’s most senior and most trusted fleets while maintaining a reputation for reliability and operational excellence,” added Morgan. “This has resulted in Piedmont earning the title of most reliable E145 operator in the world in 2022, 2023 and 2024. And we look forward to doing the same with a new fleet type.”
Decisions regarding specific routes, maintenance hubs and crew bases for the new aircraft will be shared in the coming months. Until then, the company remains focused on delivering excellence every day, honoring its mission to add value for American’s customers.
Piedmont will continue to serve customers with two active fleet types well into the 2030s, ensuring customers enjoy the premium service they’ve come to expect.