The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued a type-certificate for the Embraer Model EMB-500 business jet, otherwise known as the "Phenom 100" (or in ANN-speak... 'what we want but can not afford...').

The EASA TC confirms that the aircraft complies with European safety and environmental standards and may now be legally registered and operated throughout the European Union. In addition, the type-certificate is valid in Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.

The Agency's certification process started in November 2005 with a team consisting of experts from the Agency, CAA-UK and LBA Germany. The team worked in close cooperation with the Certifying Authority ANAC Brazil and the engineering and certification teams from Embraer.

"The Phenom 100 is the first business jet in its category of aircraft where the full certification process fell under the responsibility of the Agency. Aviation is an international business and this project has once more proven that our common goal is to increase aviation safety. We thank the Brazilian National Aviation Authority and Embraer for their enthusiasm and accuracy", said Dr Norbert Lohl, the Agency's Certification Director during the type-certification handover.

"We are honoured to receive EASA certification for the Phenom 100 on schedule, confirming the aircraft has met or surpassed all original specification targets, and opening the way for the first deliveries in the European Union," said Maurício Almeida Filho, Embraer Vice President, Programs - Executive Jets.

The Phenom is certified against Certification Specifications valid for General Aviation aircraft (CS-23). The aircraft has accommodation for two pilots and up to four passengers, it is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW617F-E turbofan engines with approximately 1,800 lb of thrust each. The engine was certified by the Agency on 23 April 2009.

The maximum takeoff weight is 10,472 lb, Vmo/Mmo are 275 knots IAS, Mach 0.70; and the maximum operating altitude is 41,000 ft. The aircraft is certified for single pilot operation in day, night, VFR, IFR and flight into known icing. The Phenom 100 is expected to enter into service in the EU in May 2009.

FMI: www.embraer.com