The flight was held in Gavião Peixoto, about what 300 kilometers from São Paulo, and had the accompaniment of Portuguese military personnel. In the second semester, plane will arrive in Portugal.
Embraer (Brazilian Aeronautics Company) announced the inaugural flight of the third KC-390 Millennium for the Portuguese Air Force (FAP), held in Gavião Peixoto, about what 300 kilometers from São Paulo. The test was accompanied by military and technicians of the monitoring and inspection mission (MAF) de Portugal. The plane will arrive in Portugal in the second half of 2025.
This is another stage of the Military Transport Fleet Modernization Program of Portugal, that acquired five aircraft from the model manufactured by Embraer. The freighter KC-390 is considered the most advanced in its category, Designed for tactical transport missions, refueling in flight and humanitarian operations. The Brazilian company informs that, During tests performed last week, far from the aerodrome to ensure safety and efficiency, The plane demonstrated all operational capabilities before returning to the base.
The multidisciplinary team of the mission is composed of crew members, FAP engineers and maintenance technicians. As reported, The group wants to ensure that all program requirements are met before aircraft delivery to Portugal.
Besides, Portuguese Air Force pilots make qualification flights on KC-390 in Brazil. The first freighter was delivered to Portugal in October 2023 And the next is expected to arrive in the country in the second half of this year. No total, the Portuguese government will pay almost 830 million (R$ 5,2 billion) to Embraer.
Portugal was the first international client of the KC-390 and already operates two units, that have been used in various missions, including logistical support, cargo transportation and relief operations. The arrival of the third plane will further reinforce the operational capacity of the Portuguese Air Force, consolidating the strategic partnership between the country and Embraer, The company holds 65% OGMA ACTIONARY CONTROL, Alverca.
With versatility to operate on semi -prepared tracks and load capacity greater than 26 tons, The KC-390 is a key piece in the modernization of air forces around the world. According to the president of Embraer Defense & Security, Bosco da Costa Junior, “The company continues to expand its presence in the defense market, with KC-390 being one of the main highlights of the Brazilian aeronautical industry”.
The acquisition of the aircraft was approved by the Council of Ministers of Portugal. The Portuguese state negotiated the project with Embraer in details. The business eventually materialized with the maximum amount that the Air Force had defined for the acquisitions and was provided for in the Military Programming Law.
Source: Public Brazil
Photo: Rui Gaudêncio
