EMB 100 Bandeirante

The Embraer EMB‑100 Bandeirante is a twin‑engine, low‑wing commuter aircraft that marked Brazil’s entrance into the global aerospace market. Developed in the early 1970s as a derivative of the earlier EMB‑110 prototype, the first flight took place on 26 October 1972 and certification followed in 1975. Powered by two Lycoming or Continental piston engines – later versions equipped with Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 turboprops – the Bandeirante can carry six to nine passengers or be configured for cargo, medical evacuation, or maritime patrol. Its rugged all‑metal construction, simple systems, and short‑field performance made it ideal for operations from unpaved airstrips throughout South America, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 500 units were built, helping Embraer secure export contracts and establishing a reputation for reliable, low‑cost regional transport. The aircraft’s versatility influenced later models such as the EMB‑120 Brasilia and laid the foundation for Embraer’s evolution into a leading manufacturer of regional jets. Today the EMB‑100 remains an iconic symbol of Brazil’s aerospace ambition and continues to serve in niche roles worldwide. Several operators still fly the type in South America, where its proven durability and economical operating costs keep it competitive decades after its introduction.

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