Embraer's executive jets division saw its highest first-quarter deliveries over the past eight years, according to the Brazilian airframer's first-quarter results released on Friday. In addition, Embraer reported backlog reached $4.6 billion by the end of March—an increase of $300 million from the previous quarter.
In the light-jet segment, Embraer’s first quarter deliveries saw a year-over-year (YoY) increase of 83 percent, handing over 10 Phenom 300s—the best-selling light jet for more than a decade—and one Phenom 100.
For the midsize class, the manufacturer delivered seven: three Praetor 500s and four Praetor 600s. That more than tripled its first-quarter 2023 output in the category.
Embraer predicts its private jet division will deliver between 125 and 135 aircraft for the year. It typically starts slowly and reaches a high delivery rate in the year's fourth quarter. Last year, for example, it delivered 49 of its 115 executive jets in the final quarter. The OEM has developed a production leveling plan, which it is currently implementing to maintain a stable production pace throughout the calendar year.
Overall, including its commercial, defense, and services divisions, the company posted a $21.1 billion backlog for the just-ended quarter, the highest point in the past seven years.