Embraer EMB-145 Amazon / ERJ-145

Development plans revealed 12 June 1989, aimed at first flight late 1991 and first deliveries mid-1993. Programme delayed by company cutbacks, complete redesign of wing and other changes. First flight 11 August 1995 ahead of formal roll-out and "official" first flight a week later; first of three preseries aircraft first flown 17 November 1995; second flew on 14 February and third 2 April 1996. FAA and Brazilian CTA certification achieved 10 December 1996. Single prototype and three pre-series aircraft undertook a 1,600 hour, 13 month development flight testing and certification programme. Deliveries began on 19 December 1996 with two aircraft to US launch customer Continental Express.

Designation changed from EMB-145 to ERJ-145 in October 1997 to reflect 'Regional Jet' terminology. although former is retained for corporate and military variants. Certified by the aviation authorities of 27 countries by September 1998.

In addition to its suitability for executive transport and corporate shuttle roles, Embraer foresees military potential for the ERJ-145 as a tanker aircraft for small combat units, and as an AEW, elint, comint, sigint or battlefield surveillance platform.

3-View

A three-view drawing (976 x 652)