The inaugural flight of the E190F, the first E-Freighter conversion from passenger transport to cargo aircraft, marked a milestone as it soared through the skies above São José dos Campos, Brazil on April 5. Conducted by the Embraer team, the flight lasted approximately two hours, during which the E-Freighter underwent comprehensive evaluations. Further testing is slated before the aircraft enters into full operation. The aircraft is under the ownership of Regional One, a leasing company based in the United States.
Francisco Gomes Neto, President and CEO of Embraer, remarked, “The E-Freighter programme presents a new avenue of business for Embraer, aligning with the surging global demand for cargo transport driven by e-commerce. By integrating the high-tech E-Jets family with unparalleled operational performance, we are poised to meet the evolving needs of our customers. The rapid progress of the E190F and E195F during testing is highly promising. These jets will serve as essential assets for our customers, facilitating agile and decentralised deliveries.”
The maiden flight represents one phase in a series of evaluations conducted by Embraer before the E-Freighter jets commence operations. The aircraft has already demonstrated success in ground pressurisation and cargo loading tests.
Converted E-Jets will boast over 50% more volume capacity, three-times the range of large cargo turboprops, and up to 30% lower operating costs compared to narrow-body aircraft. With combined capacity on the floor and main deck, the maximum structural payload reaches 13,500 kg for the E190F and 14,300 kg for the E195F.
Launched in 2022, the E190F and E195F passenger-to-freight conversion (P2F) programmes engaged a global network comprising over 40 suppliers and more than 600 employees, dedicating over half a million hours to the development of the E-Freighter concept.
