Andrzej Jeziorski/TAIPEI
Embraer has chosen Latecoere to manufacture fuselage components for the ERJ-170/190 , making it one of the first major suppliers to be signed up for the new regional aircraft family.
Although the selection of the French structures specialist has not been announced formally, sources close to the programme confirm Latecoere was chosen in early August. They say some work may be passed on in subcontracts to Taiwan's Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC).
Embraer launched the ERJ-170/190 family of 70/108-seat regional jets in June after securing a launch order for up to 160 aircraft (including options) from Swiss carrier Crossair.
Three basic versions of the twinjet are offered, all of which will be powered by the General Electric CF34. Hamilton Sundstrand's APS 2300 is believed to have been selected as the auxiliary power unit.
The Brazilian manufacturer has been seeking partners to produce the airframe structures, with the work divided into two centre fuselage sections, the aft fuselage and empennage. The wing work will be shared by three suppliers.
Latecoere officials refuse to confirm the agreement, but sources say the work package includes fuselage sections and doors. "AIDC is not manufacturing for Latecoere yet, but we have been talking to each other for a long time," says Latecoere. "Since the last Paris air show, we have decided to go further and develop what could be a teaming agreement on some programmes." The company says it could co-operate with AIDC on programmes such as the Airbus A3XX.
Source: Flight International
