Embraer announced today the acceptance, by Alitalia, of a commercial proposal regarding the acquisition of six 70-seat Embraer 170 jet aircraft, with options for a further six, which are convertible to the Embraer 190 model. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2003.
Also included in the commercial proposal is the conversion of six options for the 50-seat ERJ 145 regional jet. This additional order brings the total number of the type to 14 aircraft in Alitalia's fleet. Deliveries will take place in 2002 and 2003.
Final contract negotiations are expected to take place in the coming weeks. The order is valued at approximately US$ 250 million, and may reach US$ 400 million if all options are converted.
"The selection of the Embraer 170 and the increase to the ERJ 145 fleet by such a prestigious and renowned airline as Alitalia, has a special meaning to Embraer", said Maurício Botelho, President and CEO of Embraer, who added: "The new order for the Embraer 170 confirms the excellent acceptance of Embraer's new commercial jet family, with its unparalleled combination of comfort, performance and economics".
Alitalia signed its first contract with Embraer for the acquisition of 21 ERJ 145s, (6 firm orders and 15 options) in June 1999, at Le Bourget Air Show, in France.
The Embraer 170 is the first member of a family of four new commercial jets seating 70 to 110 passengers. The double-bubble hull design is unique for this category of aircraft and offers exceptional cabin spaciousness and comfort. The aircraft is powered by two underwing-mounted General Electric CF34-8E engines and has a range of 2,100 nautical miles.
Embraer is one of the world's leading aerospace companies and is headquartered in São José dos Campos, state of São Paulo, with offices and customer service bases in Australia, China, France, Singapore and the United States, and a total workforce of 11,264 people in March 31, 2002. Embraer (Empresa Brasileira de Aeronáutica S.A.) has been Brazil's largest exporter since 1999. In March 31, 2002, its backlog for firm orders amounts to US$ 10.3 billion and US$ 12.7 billion in options.
Embraer has 32 years of experience in designing, developing, manufacturing, selling and providing after sales support to aircraft aimed for the world airline, corporate and defense markets.
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Embraer Increases Its Presence In Alitalia Jet Fleet
