According to the company, the first manned flight assessments analyzed key characteristics such as power, performance, control, thermal management and operational safety of the electric aircraft.

The goal was to demonstrate the results obtained in real conditions in computer simulations, laboratory tests and soil technology integration, which have been taking place since the second half of 2019.

“The first flight of an aircraft is always an important milestone, and the take-off of the first zero-emissions electric aircraft also symbolizes the relevant contribution of our teams and partners to the energy transition in this sector,” said Luis Carlos Afonso. Vice President in a statement – Head of Engineering, Technology Development and Corporate Strategy at Embraer.

He added, “We are committed to finding solutions that make a more sustainable aviation future viable, and innovation will play a fundamental role in this journey.”

The technology collaboration project used a WEG electric powertrain system and an EDP-financed battery pack that was integrated into the EMB-203 Ipanema, which in 2004 became the world’s first certified and serial-produced aircraft to fly on fuel from a renewable source (ethanol).

Embraer is the world’s leading manufacturer of commercial aircraft with up to 150 seats and more than 100 customers worldwide.

The Brazilian company has industrial units, offices, service centers and spare parts distribution, among other activities, in the Americas, Africa, Asia and Europe.

In Portugal, there are two Embraer plants in the Évora Aeronautical Industry Park, and the company is a shareholder in OGMA – Indústria Aeronáutica de Portugal, with 65% of the capital, in Alverca.