Embraer 120 Specifications & Booking
Overview of the Embraer 120
The Embraer 120 is a commercial aircraft manufactured by Brazilian aerospace company Embraer. It falls under the category of regional jets, designed to operate short-haul flights with a maximum capacity of 30 passengers. The Embraer 120 made its maiden flight on January 27, 1983, and was certified for commercial use in 1985.
Technical Specifications
Here are the detailed technical specifications of the Embraer 120:
- Dimensions:
- Length: 21.4 meters (70 feet 2 inches)
- Wingspan: 19.1 meters (62 feet 8 inches)
- Weight:
- Empty weight: 4,900 kilograms (10,804 pounds)
- Maximum takeoff weight: 8,000 kilograms (17,637 pounds)
- Engines:
- Type: Garrett TPE-331 turboprop engines
- Thrust: 450 horsepower each
- Fuel efficiency: 3,200 kilometers per hour (1,990 miles per hour)
- Performance:
- Maximum speed: Mach 0.28 (202 kilometers per hour or 125 miles per hour)
- Range: 1,500 kilometers (932 miles)
- Cruising altitude: 7,620 meters (25,000 feet)
- Capacity:
- Passengers: 30
- Cargo: Not applicable
- Crew: Two pilots and one flight attendant
Design and Features
The Embraer 120 features a distinctive design with a curved fuselage and a high-mounted wing. The aircraft has a fixed tricycle landing gear system and is equipped with a Garmin GNS-430 avionics suite. One of its notable features is the ability to operate from short, unimproved airstrips due to its turboprop engines and relatively low stall speed.
History and Development
The Embraer 120 was developed as a response to the growing demand for regional jets in the 1980s. The aircraft underwent rigorous testing and certification processes before entering service with several airlines, including Braathens SAFE and Swissair. Over its production run, the Embraer 120 underwent several updates and upgrades, including the introduction of more efficient engines and improved avionics.
- Key milestones:
- First flight: January 27, 1983
- Certification: 1985
- Entry into service: 1986
- Challenges faced during development:
- Significant upgrades or variants:
Operational Use
The Embraer 120 is primarily used for regional passenger transportation and cargo operations. Some airlines that operate the Embraer 120 include Braathens SAFE, Swissair, and Aeroturismo.
- Airlines or organizations that operate it:
- Popular routes or missions:
- Role in aviation history:
Interesting Facts
Here are three interesting facts about the Embraer 120:
- Unique design choices: The Embraer 120's curved fuselage was designed to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.
- Famous flights or events: In 1986, an Embraer 120 set a new record for the fastest flight around the world by a turboprop aircraft.
- Pop culture appearances:
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Embraer 120 unique?
The Embraer 120's unique design features, including its curved fuselage and high-mounted wing, provide improved fuel efficiency and the ability to operate from short, unimproved airstrips.
How much does the Embraer 120 cost?
The estimated cost of a new Embraer 120 is around $5 million to $7 million, depending on configuration and customization. Used aircraft can range from $2 million to $4 million.
What is the range of the Embraer 120?
The Embraer 120 has a maximum range of approximately 1,500 kilometers (932 miles), making it well-suited for regional passenger transportation and cargo operations.
Which airlines operate the Embraer 120?
Several airlines have operated the Embraer 120, including Braathens SAFE and Swissair. The aircraft is also used by charter operators and private companies.
Is the Embraer 120 still in production?
No, the Embraer 120 is no longer in production. The last unit was delivered in 1996, and since then, the manufacturer has focused on other aircraft models, such as the ERJ145 and the Phenom series.
