Embraer to decide on new aircraft programme by the end of 2010
Embraer Executive VP Mauro Kern, stated the company will make a decision on the platform for a new aircraft programme before the end of 2010 (AINonline, 07-Apr-2010). Mr Kern was recently appointed head of the 'New Programs-Airline Market' division at Embraer, which will consider options for a successor to its current E-jets programme of 70-110 seat regional jets. Mr Kern stated Embraer will likely concentrate on the 100-120-seat jet market, as well as developing a strategy to address Bombardier's CSeries and Airbus and Boeing potentially fitting new engines to the A320 and B737. Options under consideration include stretching the existing E195, developing a completely new aircraft platform or even developing a large turboprop.
Embraer: "It looks like we're coming closer on a decision on what to do next. And [the new division] is about bringing more energy and focus to that. As time passes the scenarios are becoming more clear in terms of what our competitors are doing or intend to do. And the technology scenarios-the engine manufacturers' visions and ideas and willingness and aggressiveness-this is all becoming more and more clear," Mauro Kern, Executive VP, New Programs-Airline Market. Source: AINonline, 07-Apr-2010.