Two new versions of the PW1000 family will be developed for the Embraer program, unofficially dubbed the “G2.” Covering a range of 15,000-22,000 lb. thrust, they comprise the PW1700G and PW1900G, the former aimed at the second-generation E-170/-175 and the latter the new variant of the larger E-190/-195. Silva says the engine decision was made on the basis of technical and commercial considerations. “We do appreciate the relationship with GE, but the proposition that Pratt is offering seems to us [to bring] more value to our customers based on fuel burn and maintenance costs. So we believe it is the best option.”

Despite the busy development schedule now facing Pratt, Silva says Embraer is “very comfortable in that regard. United Technologies/Pratt & Whitney is a big organization.” Silva adds that Pratt's ongoing progress with development of geared turbofans for CSeries, the Mitsubishi Regional Jet (MRJ), Airbus A320NEO and Irkut MS-21 has reassured the Brazilians that “their engine will deliver the savings our customers are looking for. The decision we are making today is the most credible and we are comfortable with it.”

Part of Embraer's comfort level is based on the fact the PW1700G will be configured with a 56-in.-dia. fan, while the PW1900G will have a 73-in. fan. The smaller engine is therefore a clone of the same-sized PW1200G in advanced development for the MRJ, while the PW1900G is similarly almost identical to the PW1500G now poised to power the first flight of the CSeries. The first engine to go to test is expected early in 2015 in order to provide ample margin for the planned start of flight tests of the initial next-generation Embraer jet in 2016.

Pratt Next-Generation Product Family Vice President Bob Saia says commonality with the MRJ and CSeries engines eases the engine-maker's workload. “These will be newly certificated by model, but a lot of the reports will be based on initial certification tests already conducted on the other engines, such as fan-blade-out and so on.” He adds that the selection by Embraer represents “a good fit” for Pratt's overall market penetration strategy.

GE says it submitted a “very competitive bid that was good for our business and shareholders,” but adds that its “development and production plates are full for the next several years, including significant engine deliveries to Embraer.” The company also says it “looks forward to supporting the more than 1,900 CF34s in service on E-Jets. The engine base will continue to grow since the E-190/-195 is just halfway through its lifecycle.” Currently, 780 CF34-8Es are in service on the E-170/-175, and 1,200 -10Es power the larger variants.