Harbin Embraer (Chalet D20-22/Stand A201) has won its first order – for six ERJ 145 aircraft from China Southern Airlines, it was announced at Asian Aerospace.
The firm is a joint venture between Embraer and China's Harbin Aircraft Industry (HAI) and Hafei Aviation Industry. Both Chinese firms are controlled by China Aviation Industry Corporation (Avic II).
"This initial order rewards Embraer and its Chinese partners' efforts to expand and strengthen commercial ties with clients based in this rapidly developing economy," says Mauricio Botelho, president and chief executive of Embraer.
Trained
"The fact that in such short a time, teams of technicians have been trained, an assembly line has been implemented, followed by the roll-out of the first ERJ 145 produced in China and the first order for this aircraft, only reflects Embraer's determination and commitment to our presence in that country."
Deliveries to China Southern are expected to start in June 2004 and run until January 2005.
Yan Zhiqing, president of the China Southern Airlines Group of Companies, says: "We are very pleased to be the launch customer. The ERJ 145 is a very attractive aircraft that will fit in very well with our existing fleet and route structure."
Source: Flight Daily News
