Embraer E190 vs Bombardier CRJ-900
Two dominant 90-seat regional jets compared: cabin, avionics, range, performance, and which to type rate on for regional career.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Embraer E190
Bombardier CRJ-900
Pax (typical)
100
76-90
Cabin width
9'7"
8'5"
Range
2,300 NM
1,550 NM
Production status
Active (E190-E2)
Ended 2020
Pricing
Embraer E190
Used 12-year E190 ~$8-15M
Bombardier CRJ-900
Used 12-year CRJ-900 ~$5-10M
Pros & Cons
Embraer E190
Pros
- +Wider cabin (4 abreast no center seat)
- +Better short-field performance
- +Newer airframe / production run still active
- +Modern fly-by-wire
Cons
- –Heavier — higher fuel burn vs CRJ
- –More complex systems
Bombardier CRJ-900
Pros
- +Lower acquisition + ops cost
- +Lighter — better fuel economy
- +Common type rating (CRJ-200/700/900)
- +Massive US regional fleet (Endeavor, SkyWest)
Cons
- –Tight cabin (2-2 with low ceiling)
- –Production ended 2020 — long-term parts concern
- –Older systems
Best For
Embraer E190
Carriers prioritizing passenger comfort and longer regional routes
Bombardier CRJ-900
US regional pilots — most likely first jet type rating
Our Verdict
CRJ is the dominant US regional career trainer (Endeavor, SkyWest fleet). E-Jets dominate at international flag carrier regional fleets. Type rating either as career-defining for most regional pilots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which type rating opens more US doors?
CRJ is in larger US regional fleet (~600 aircraft at SkyWest/Endeavor) vs E190 (~150 at Republic/JetBlue).
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