Embraer intends to build six test aircraft as part of the E-Jet E2 re-engining programme: four of the E190-E2 variant and two of the E195-E2.
Setting out the targets at the Dubai air show, Embraer's chief executive of commercial aviation Paulo Cesar Silva added that both the E195-E2s and three of the E190-E2s would be ready by end of 2016, with the fourth following in 2017.
No plans have been made for the number of E175-E2 test aircraft.
"The E190-E2 iron bird is already fully ready and we are expecting a smooth [testing] process," says Silva.
Embraer recently released pictures of the first prototype of its E190-E2, which is in final assembly at the Brazilian manufacturer's headquarters in Sao Jose dos Campos.
The aircraft, bearing the registration PR-ZEY, was shown resting on struts, with its fuselage join and wing-to-body completed. Painted in Embraer's blue, yellow and grey livery, the aircraft was without its Pratt & Whitney PW1900G geared turbofan engines. The vertical stabiliser had also yet to be attached.
Dutch lessor AerCap will be the launch customer of the 97-seat E190-E2, having inherited with its ILFC acquisition a firm order for 25 plus the same number of options. That deal also included 25 firm examples of the 118-seat E195-E2, plus the same number of options.
The firm part of the order is to be delivered between 2018 and 2023.
"We are confident of the E2 jets. Our experience with the E-Jets will allow us to improve the product even more," says Silva.
In the Middle East, a total of 58 E-Jets are operated by nine operators.
Its regional forecast, detailed at show, projects demand for 220 new aircraft in the 70- to -130 seat segment from the region through 2034.
See the latest news,analysis and opinion from the Dubai air show.
Source: Cirium Dashboard
