"I do expect we'll fly ahead of schedule." The swift development of Embraer's re-engined regional jet line-up, which Slattery said was on budget and in-line with performance specifications, has bolstered hopes for new sales in the company's biggest division. Mr Slattery said improved capacity, range, maintenance costs and fuel efficiency for the new E195 had drawn interest both from current European operators and from low-cost carriers around the world, especially in South-east Asia. That could boost the firm order backlog for the new jet, which is currently composed of two leasing companies and two airlines: Brazil's Azul Linhas Aereas Brasileiras SA and Indian low-cost carrier Air Costa Aviation Pvt Ltd. Air Costa suspended flights last week and has stopped taking bookings after failing to make aircraft lease payments, according to business news publication Mint.