Embraer expects to be able to announce launch orders within the next eight months for its new 78-seat model, the 175, and as a result has accelerated development of the stretch version ahead of any other planned derivatives, in the process pushing back initial delivery of the larger 195 to Crossair by around six months. The 175 schedule will now follow the baseline 170 (which was rolled out last week), with a first flight in early 2003 and deliveries starting in June 2004. The first 195 delivery to Crossair has slipped from July to late 2004.
Crossair has said it is considering taking an unknown number of 175s in place of the delayed initial 195s. Embraer is pursuing several new mainline and regional sales campaigns with the 78-seater, including TAM which has still to firm up an earlier memorandum. At least one other South American national carrier is known to be close to a decision, while US Airways is continuing with its competition to acquire new 69-seaters.
The 175 was initially aimed at British Airways' and Qantas' joint requirement for regional jets. While BA has delayed its decision by up to six months in the wake of 11 September, industry sources say Qantas will proceed with its half of the buy having just ordered Boeing 737-800s.
Source: Flight International
