Embraer says it will make a decision on whether to proceed with development of its unusual rear-engine turboprop regional aircraft by the middle of 2023. Arjan Meijer, Embraer’s head of commercial aviation, told Reuters the company is in talks with India to partner in development of the aircraft, which will seat 70-90 passengers. The two engines will be mounted on pylons on the tail to minimize cabin noise.
Meijer said that if Embraer pulls the trigger on the turboprop next year, it will enter service by 2028. “We’re powering on with that,” Meijer said. “That’s going to be a big decision we have to make. For the launch we are looking at mid-2023,” he added. Embraer has asked for proposals from engine makers for the new design.
Humm… no mention of electric motors, battery packs, flight duration or distance, must be a real world attempt to rationally improve fuel economy and efficiency without all the stupid drama and hype usually associated with new A/C projects. Refreshing to see a project that is actually real world and doable for a change.
A very hearty Amen.
Anyone understand the India angle? What is the value add of the Indians here?
I always liked the looks of pusher turboprops. I was lucky enough to tour a Starship in person.
I wonder how they plan to keep debris that is kicked up by the tires on takeoff from hitting the prop blades? (Mud flaps?) Otherwise, it looks like an interesting design.
Not likely to ever see a US airline operate this. 2 reasons, American passengers in general don’t like anything with a prop, and highly unlikely it will meet current scope restrictions, something that I don’t see the pilot unions giving up as long as the current “shortage” exists. The pilot scope is the reason Embraer was unable to sell the 195E2 model to US airlines.