Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer has released a new video intended to give a preview of the turboprop design it is developing. This project is already enjoying a lot of interest, as it is a completely new development that the Brazilians want to use to disrupt the market.
In the civilian sector, Embraer took an extended turboprop hiatus by ceasing production of the long-running blockbuster Emb-120 Brasilia. With the E-Jet series, the company blossomed into the market leader in the field of regional jets. The only significant competitor currently available is Airbus' A220 series. The long-standing arch-rival Bombardier has meanwhile been broken up and merged into various corporations.
Embraer has high hopes for the new development, because it should score with particularly low fuel consumption. The propellers are to be placed unusually in the stern area, thereby reducing noise and vibrations in the cabin. However, these are traction and not pusher propellers.
Without much ado, Embraer is currently working with several engine manufacturers to find the most effective engine for the TPNG. As with almost every aspect of the project, Embraer is keeping details to itself but said a decision on the engine is expected to be made later this year. Wind tunnel testing of the prototype propeller systems was completed in March and full wind tunnel testing is expected to be completed this year. In parallel, the business case is being developed and discussions are being held with various airlines in order to find a launch customer.
The overall plan is for this preparatory work to be completed and a decision to launch the TPNG to be made in early to mid-2023. Should the decision for the new aircraft be made, Embraer says it will begin detailed design, manufacturing and certification work, with the aircraft expected to enter service in early 2028.
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