Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer is studying the market and recent technologies that would justify constructing a wholly recent jet, CEO Francisco Gomes Neto told CNBC.
A brand new plane could help the plane maker compete with much larger rivals Airbus and Airbus Boeingwhich delivers a whole bunch of jets annually, in comparison with Embraer's dozens of aircraft.
However, Gomes Neto noted that no decisions have been made yet.
“At this point we have no concrete plans for a tall, narrow body,” he said, adding that studies “need to be prepared” for brand new engine technologies, avionics and potential demand.
In the meantime, Gomes Neto said Embraer is concentrated on improving results and selling its regional aircraft, which received orders earlier this yr American Airlinesmanufacturing its E2 jet and “delivering what we promise our customers.”
Embraer said Friday that it delivered 16 business aircraft within the third quarter, up greater than 5% from a yr earlier. Including its defense and business aircraft, the corporate delivered 57 jets within the period, a 3rd greater than the previous yr.
The Federal Aviation Administration approved a freighter version of its passenger-to-freighter conversion E190 jet earlier this month, paving the way in which for business introduction.
“That’s perhaps the advantage we have: We have a great product.” [that’s] available,” said Gomes Neto.
Both Airbus and Boeing are having difficulty ramping up production and delivering aircraft on time in the wake of the pandemic. Boeing faces the additional challenges of a safety crisis and a machinists' strike.
Boeing once had plans to take control of Embraer's commercial aircraft business, but ended those talks in early 2020. Last month, Embraer said Boeing would pay $150 million for the failed plan.
Like its competitors, Embraer is facing supply chain strains due to the pandemic, and the company is taking a closer look at delivery capabilities.
Engines, hydraulic valves, cabin interiors and components for them are some of the areas where it is difficult to increase production from suppliers, said Gomes Neto. He added that he expects supply chain issues to likely ease in 2026.
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