Embraer launches Advanced Range Versions of 170 and 175 Jets

Embraer has launched the new Advanced Range (AR) versions of the Embraer 170 and the Embraer 175 aircraft of its four-model E-Jets family.

These new versions are designed to meet customer requirements for increased range and operating flexibility. Northwest Airlines is the launch customer for the Embraer 175 AR. Their first ten aircraft will be the Long Range (LR) version and, later, will be retrofitted to the AR version. The remaining 26 jets of the airline’s firm order will incorporate the AR structural provisions from the assembly line.

“We at Embraer are constantly analyzing our customers’ needs and requirements, and the new AR versions of the Embraer 170 and Embraer 175 are the result of those analyses,” said Mauro Kern, Embraer’s Executive Vice President, Airline Market. “Airlines that need extra range to increase their flexibility in terms of flight offerings and market coverage find these aircraft to be attractive solutions for their mainline needs.”

The AR versions incorporate structural reinforcements that allow the aircraft to be operated at takeoff, landing and zero fuel weights above the current maximum values. This means an average additional range of 300 nautical miles (556 km) and a payload increase of more than 1,543 lb (700 kg), depending on the aircraft model, airline’s specific operating conditions and configuration.

The new versions are expected to be certified by December 2008, and Embraer will be able to offer retrofit kits to existing operators.

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