Embraer is conducting sales discussions with both Colombia and Chile over potential acquisitions of its C-390 military transport aircraft as the company enlarges production to meet growing overseas demand, CEO Francisco Gomes Neto said.
Gomes Neto noted that, to date, Brazil is the only country in Latin America operating the C-390. He also said sales processes in the region usually take longer than in other parts of the world because of the time required for budget approvals and procurement procedures. Despite those procedural delays, he described the C-390 as a platform that fits the needs of both Colombia and Chile.
The CEO suggested negotiations with Colombia could move to a conclusion sooner than those with Chile. Colombia's president has signaled an ambition to modernize the nation's military fleet and has publicly criticized bureaucratic impediments that he says have slowed progress following the March crash of a C-130 that resulted in 70 deaths.
In Chile, Embraer formally introduced the C-390 to President Jose Antonio Kast at the country's FIDAE air show last month, presenting the aircraft directly to the head of state as part of its regional outreach.
Internationally, Embraer last week announced an order from the United Arab Emirates for up to 20 C-390s, marking the first confirmed sale of the type in the Middle East. Gomes Neto said that order came slightly earlier than the company had expected amid the U.S.-Israel war with Iran.
Gomes Neto emphasized that global interest in the C-390 remains robust, saying about a dozen countries have selected the aircraft. He added that production is being stepped up as supply chains normalize following post-pandemic constraints. Embraer expects to reach a production rate of 10 planes by 2030, with output this year totaling six jets.
The company is positioning its expanded output to support both confirmed orders and active campaigns, while acknowledging the particular procurement rhythms of Latin American governments. The combination of recent Middle East sales and ongoing regional talks reflects Embraer’s effort to convert international interest into firm orders as capacity recovers.
Summary of developments
- Embraer is negotiating with Colombia and Chile on potential C-390 sales.
- Brazil is currently the only Latin American operator of the C-390.
- Embraer announced an order for up to 20 C-390s from the United Arab Emirates.
- Company plans to raise production to 10 planes by 2030; output this year is six jets.
Reporting is based on statements attributed to Embraer's CEO Francisco Gomes Neto.