Embraer Rolls Out First Phenom 100

Two years after it announced the launch of its Phenom 100 very light jet program (at EBACE 2005), Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer celebrated the rollout of the first aircraft on June 16 at its São Jose dos Campos headquarters. After rollout, the production conforming twinjet went to the paint shop and from there it was to begin ground tests in preparation for first flight this month. Two more Phenom 100s now under assembly are expected to enter the certification program before the end of the year. According to a spokesman, certification of the $2.85 million, four-passenger VLJ remains on track for the middle of next year.