Embraer Echoes Market Projections

Echoing similar projections by other companies in recent months, Brazil-based Empresa Brasileira de Aeronutica S.A. (Embraer) recently released the results from its own study of corporate aircraft demand, which estimates an overall market for 7560 business aircraft in the next 10 years. According to Embraer, the super-midsize business jet segment is expected to reach 1485 units over the next decade while anticipated sales of bizjets in the large segment should reach 945 units in the same period. Embraers Legacy Executive and Legacy Shuttle jets, versions of the companys line of ERJ 135/145 regional airliners are the companys primary offering to the bizjet crowd. The company recently announced a number of improvements in the Legacy program at NBAA 2004, including performance enhancements and new interior amenities. First certified in 2002, Embraers Legacy jets are currently operated in 11 countries. The Legacy Executive carries up to 16 passengers, cruises at up to Mach .80 and offers a range of 3250 nm with eight passengers and NBAA IFR reserves.