The operational fleet has amassed over 13,000 flight hours, boasting an 80% operational availability and mission completion rates exceeding 99%, highlighting outstanding productivity within its category.
The C-390 excels with a 26-ton payload, 470 knots speed, and versatility for military, medical, search and rescue, firefighting, and humanitarian missions on unpaved runways.
Embraer delivered the second KC-390 multi-mission aircraft to the Portuguese Air Force (FAP). The platform includes standard NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) equipment already integrated into the aircraft and meets the requirements set by the National Aeronautical Authority (AAN) of Portugal. The current fleet of aircraft in operation has accumulated more than 13,000 flight hours, with operational availability of around 80% and mission completion rates above 99%, demonstrating exceptional productivity in the category.
Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO, Embraer’s Defense & Security, said, “The second KC-390 Millennium delivery to the Portuguese Air Force is another important step in the process of internationalizing our aircraft, which is increasing its market recognition, particularly among NATO nations. The Portuguese Air Force is a long-term partner of Embraer and has supported us strategically since the beginning of the program. We will continue to work together to advance our partnership in the coming years.”
Since entering into operation with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019 and the Portuguese Air Force in 2023, the KC-390 has demonstrated robust capacity, reliability, and performance. With a 26-ton payload capacity, it exceeds other medium-sized military transport aircraft, achieving speeds of 470 knots and extended operational ranges. The KC-390 is versatile, supporting various missions including cargo and troop transport, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, and humanitarian operations. It is adept at operating from temporary or unpaved runways such as packed earth, soil, and gravel.
The aircraft configured with air-to-air refueling equipment, with the designation KC-390, has already proven its aerial refueling capacity both as a tanker and as a receiver, in this case by receiving fuel from another KC-390 using pods installed under the wings.
General João Cartaxo Alves, Chief of Staff, Portuguese Air Force said, “With the delivery of this second aircraft we will accelerate the integration of this distinguish capability in the Portuguese Air Force allowing us to increment the operational missions and prepare additional crew members and technicians for the future to come. With the results already achieved with the first aircraft it’s clear that with this second one we will see the Portuguese KC-390s flying all around the world proving their capabilities, versatility and availability and providing added mission value for Portugal, partners and alliances.”
Also Read: Altitude Angel revamps GoDrone app for Airspace safety
Embraer, A global aerospace company headquartered in Brazil, has businesses in Commercial and Executive aviation, Defense & Security, and Agricultural Aviation. The company designs, develops, manufactures and markets aircraft and systems, providing Services & Support to customers after-sales.
