One of the two prototype Embraer 175s, which have logged 430 hours between them, is here at the show and excused duties from its flight test program for Transport Canada certification, which is due this month. The Brazilian manufacturer says it doesn’t yet have a U.S. customer for this model and will not try for FAA certification until one emerges.
On the other hand, LOT Polish Airlines, which was European launch customer for the Embraer 170 and currently operates 10 of them, has recently converted four of its options for that model into firm orders for Embraer 175s. Deliveries are scheduled to start in the second quarter of 2006. The aircraft will be configured to carry 82 passengers. —Mike Vines
