Brazilian Aerospace Company Embraer Signs Contract to Export Aircraft to American Airlines

by | Jul 24, 2024 | FDI Latin America

American Airlines has ordered 90 planes with a capacity of 76 passengers. The National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) announced in São José dos Campos that the financing contract for exporting 32 Embraer E175 commercial jets to American Airlines has been completed.

The Embraer E175: A Regional Jet

The Embraer E175 stands out as a regional jet designed for short to medium-haul flights, typically seating up to 76 passengers in a dual-class configuration. It boasts advanced aerodynamics, winglets, and efficient engines, contributing to lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions. The aircraft is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, including fly-by-wire technology, significantly enhancing flight safety and operational efficiency. The E175’s cabin is designed for passenger comfort, offering larger windows, ample overhead storage, and reduced noise levels. Its performance characteristics include a maximum range of approximately 2,200 nautical miles (4,074 kilometers) and a maximum cruise speed of Mach 0.82. The E175’s versatility suits it for various airport operations, including those with shorter runways. This model is part of the Brazilian aerospace company Embraer’s E-Jet family. It is known for reliability, low operating costs, and strong aftermarket support, making it a popular choice among regional airlines worldwide.

Financial Details and Support

This transaction, valued at R$4.5 billion, will be carried out through a direct line of credit to promote the sale of Brazilian goods in the international market. During the announcement on Friday, July 19, 2024, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva stressed the relevance of the Brazilian aerospace company Embraer for the country. “Embraer has symbolized national pride since my time as union president in the 1980s. It is not common for the BNDES to dare to finance R$ 4.5 billion to purchase aircraft. It is a political decision of the government. We will continue to support Brazilian exports, as this also encourages the creation of jobs, the payment of salaries, the accumulation of technological knowledge and intelligence,” he declared.

Embraer’s Role in Neoindustrialization

Francisco Gomes Neto, president and CEO of the Brazilian aerospace company Embraer, pointed out that this financing “drives Brazil’s neoindustrialization process, increasing the country’s innovation and competitiveness.” With its strategic vision, he highlighted that the BNDES has been crucial for developing the national industry, facilitating access to capital for exports, and promoting investment in research and development.

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Order Details and Market Impact

Earlier this year, American Airlines placed an order for 90 E175 aircraft, with the option to purchase another 43 of the same model. The planes will have a capacity of 76 passengers. If all purchase options are exercised, the total value of the operation will exceed US$7 billion, adding to Embraer’s order book for the first quarter.

Embraer’s Operations and Global Presence

The Brazilian aerospace company Embraer operates in the Commercial Aviation, Executive Aviation, Defense and Security, and Agricultural Aviation sectors. The company is dedicated to designing, developing, manufacturing, and marketing aircraft and systems, offering after-sales services and customer assistance. It has industrial facilities, offices, service centers, and parts distribution in America, Africa, Asia, and Europe.

Partnership with BNDES

Since 1997, BNDES, Embraer’s principal partner, has supported the export of more than 1,300 aircraft. “This financing has exceeded US$25 billion over the years. Continuing this support under President Lula’s government is crucial to ensure that the Brazilian aerospace company Embraer remains one of the three largest aircraft manufacturers worldwide, generating specialized jobs and income for Brazil,” said the bank’s president, Aloizio Mercadante.

Conclusion: Strategic Importance for Brazil’s Economy

The Brazilian aerospace company Embraer has secured a significant contract to export 32 E175 commercial jets to American Airlines, valued at R$4.5 billion. This transaction, supported by the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES), is part of a broader order that includes 90 aircraft, with an option for 43 more, potentially exceeding US$7 billion. This deal underscores Embraer’s vital role in Brazil’s economy, particularly in driving neoindustrialization and enhancing the country’s global competitiveness in aerospace technology. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva emphasized the national significance of the Brazilian aerospace company Embraer, highlighting the company’s contribution to job creation, salary payments, and the accumulation of technological knowledge. BNDES has been instrumental in supporting Embraer’s exports, having financed the export of over 1,300 aircraft since 1997, totaling more than US$25 billion. This continued support is crucial for maintaining Embraer’s status as one of the world’s top three aircraft manufacturers, providing high-quality technology jobs and significant economic benefits to Brazil. Embraer’s operations span multiple sectors, including commercial, executive, and defense aviation, making it a key player in the global aerospace industry. The financing and partnership with BNDES bolster Brazil’s industrial capabilities and ensure the country’s participation in high-tech markets, fostering innovation and economic growth.

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