Will Set Up Unit If Orders Total At Least 200: Embraer Exec

Brazilian aircraft maker Embraer said it could ramp up component sourcing from India and is ready to set up a final assembly line in the country if it secures orders totaling at least 200 planes, head of Asia-Pacific Raul Villaron (pictured) told Business Standard on Monday.

- DEEPAK PATEL

"India presents a vast opportunity for regional jets in the 80 to 150-seater segment. If we are able to close orders for about 200 aircraft, it would make strong business sense for us to localize more aggressively, including establishing a final assembly line and expanding our supplier base here," said Villaron, who is also the company's senior vice-president for Asia Pacific.

The company estimates that India will require at least 500 aircraft in this segment over the next two decades, driven by growing connectivity needs into Tier-II and Tier-III cities.

Unlike turboprops, Embraer's jets offer longer range and faster travel times, making them well-suited for India's evolving network, Villaron said.