Embraer Embraer 120

Embraer 120 Brasilia: Reliability and Efficiency in Regional Air Transportation

Overview of the Embraer 120 Brasilia

The Embraer 120 Brasilia stands as one of the most successful turboprop regional aircraft developed by Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer. First introduced in the 1980s, this robust and economical aircraft has earned a reputation as a reliable workhorse for regional airlines worldwide. Thanks to its capacity, fuel efficiency, and superior operational characteristics, the Embraer 120 has become a popular choice for short and medium-range routes.

Also known as the "Brasilia," named after Brazil's capital city, this aircraft represents an important part of aviation history, showcasing the engineering talent of South American aerospace industry. Although production of the Embraer 120 ceased in 2001, many units continue to operate actively in various regions around the world, confirming the exceptional reliability and durability of its design.

Technical Specifications of the Embraer 120

The Embraer 120 Brasilia boasts impressive technical specifications for its class:

• Capacity: 30 passengers in standard configuration
• Length: 20 m (65 ft 7 in)
• Wingspan: 19.78 m (64 ft 11 in)
• Height: 6.35 m (20 ft 10 in)
• Maximum takeoff weight: 11,500 kg (25,353 lb)
• Cruise speed: 552 km/h (300 knots)
• Maximum operating altitude: 9,750 m (32,000 ft)
• Range: 1,750 km (945 nautical miles)
• Engines: Two Pratt & Whitney PW118 turboprop engines producing 1,800 hp each

The aircraft delivers economical fuel consumption of approximately 550 kg per hour at cruise speed, making it exceptionally efficient for regional routes and allowing airlines to maintain profitability even on routes with lower passenger traffic.

Design and Construction Features

The Embraer 120 is distinguished by several structural features that ensure its reliability and efficiency:

• Low-wing configuration: Provides good stability and handling characteristics
• T-tail design: Improves aerodynamic performance and aircraft control
• Retractable landing gear: Reduces drag during flight
• Pressurized cabin: Ensures passenger comfort at cruising altitude
• Robust structure: Designed for intensive operation with short take-off and landing cycles

The aircraft cabin is designed with passenger comfort in mind, despite the relatively short flight times on regional routes. The cabin height is 1.83 m (6 ft), allowing most passengers to stand upright. The cabin layout typically features a 1+2 configuration (one seat row on the left and two on the right in the direction of travel).

Operational Performance

The Embraer 120 is known for its outstanding operational qualities:

• Short runway capability: Requires only 1,420 m (4,659 ft) for takeoff at full load
• Rapid climb rate: 10.3 m/s (2,025 ft/min), allowing quick ascent to cruising altitude
• Low operating costs: Approximately 15-20% lower than similar-capacity regional jets
• High reliability: Technical readiness rate reaches 99.5% with proper maintenance
• Ease of maintenance: Design provides convenient access to major systems and components

These qualities make the Embraer 120 ideal for operation by airlines serving routes with lower passenger traffic or connecting smaller airports to major transportation hubs.

Passenger Comfort and Safety

Despite its classification as a regional aircraft, the Embraer 120 offers a decent level of comfort:

• Low vibration levels: Thanks to modern engine isolation technologies
• Effective sound insulation: Reduces cabin noise to acceptable levels
• Air conditioning system: Ensures comfortable temperature maintenance in the cabin
• Comfortable seats: Ergonomic design with 30-31 inch pitch
• Adequate space for hand luggage: Accommodates standard bags and small suitcases

In terms of safety, the Embraer 120 is equipped with all necessary systems:

• Advanced avionics with redundancy for critical systems
• Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS)
• Weather radar
• Emergency exits meeting international standards
• Oxygen masks for all passengers and crew members

Modifications and Variants

Throughout its production period, the Embraer 120 was manufactured in several variants:

• Embraer 120: Base model
• Embraer 120ER (Extended Range): Version with increased flight range
• Embraer 120FC (Full Cargo): Cargo variant
• Embraer 120QC (Quick Change): Version allowing rapid conversion from passenger to cargo configuration
• Embraer 120RT (Reduced Takeoff): Modification for operation from very short runways

The cargo versions of the aircraft can carry up to 3,000 kg (6,614 lb) of payload, making them an effective tool for express cargo delivery on regional routes.

Operator and Expert Reviews

John S., pilot with over 5,000 hours on the Embraer 120:

"The Brasilia is an exceptionally reliable machine. In my 12 years of flying this type, I can't recall situations where the equipment let us down. The aircraft forgives many piloting errors, making it safe and predictable. I especially value its ability to land on short runways at regional airports in challenging weather conditions."

Maria D., former regional airline manager:

"From an economic perspective, the Embraer 120 was a real lifesaver for our company. Low operating costs allowed us to maintain profitable routes even with 60-65% load factors. Serviceability and availability of spare parts were also excellent, which minimized downtime."

Alex V., aviation expert:

"The Embraer 120 demonstrates an amazing price-to-quality ratio for a regional aircraft. Its success paved the way for subsequent Embraer developments, including the E-Jets series. Even today, decades after the end of production, these machines remain in demand on the secondary market due to their cost-effectiveness and reliability."

Paul T., maintenance engineer:

"From a maintenance perspective, the Brasilia is a true workhorse. The design is logical and well-thought-out, with convenient access to major systems. The PW118 engines are exceptionally reliable and rarely require unscheduled repairs when maintenance protocols are followed."

Comparison with Competitors

Embraer 120 vs ATR 42-300

The Embraer 120 has advantages in speed and flight altitude, while the ATR 42-300 offers greater capacity and slightly longer range.

Embraer 120 vs Saab 340

The Embraer 120 demonstrates better speed characteristics, while the Saab 340 has a slight advantage in capacity. Both aircraft have similar range and runway requirements.

Current Usage

Despite the end of production, the Embraer 120 continues to be actively used worldwide:

• Regional transportation: Particularly in North America, Africa, and Australia
• Corporate charters: Modified VIP versions for business transportation
• Cargo operations: For express delivery to remote areas
• Medical evacuation: Specially equipped versions for medical flights
• Pilot training: In some aviation training centers

On the secondary market, the price of an Embraer 120 in good condition ranges from $1 to $2.5 million, making it an accessible option for small airlines and corporate operators.

Operating Costs

Operating an Embraer 120 involves the following expenses:

• Cost per flight hour: $1,800-2,200 including fuel, maintenance, and crew
• Maintenance costs: $350-450 per flight hour
• Engine overhaul cost: $600,000-800,000 per engine
• Insurance: Approximately 2-3% of the aircraft value annually
• Crew training: $25,000-30,000 per pilot for initial training

Despite its age, the Embraer 120 remains an economically effective choice for many operators due to low acquisition costs and reasonable operating expenses.

Conclusion

The Embraer 120 Brasilia holds an important place in regional aviation history. The combination of reliability, cost-effectiveness, and durability has made this aircraft a popular choice for airlines serving short and medium-range routes with limited passenger traffic.

Although newer, more modern models are gradually replacing the Embraer 120 in the fleets of large carriers, this Brazilian turboprop aircraft continues to demonstrate its value in many regions worldwide. Its longevity in the market testifies to the quality of its design and construction, as well as the economic efficiency of its operation.

For airlines starting their operations or working in developing markets, the Embraer 120 remains an attractive option, offering time-tested reliability and low operating costs combined with reasonable acquisition costs on the secondary market.