Embraer Delivers Second KC-390 to Portugal

Embraer has delivered its second KC-390 multi-mission aircraft to the Portuguese Air Force (FAP), featuring standard NATO equipment and meeting the National Aeronautical Authority of Portugal’s requirements. The FAP ordered five KC-390 aircraft in 2019, along with a comprehensive services and support package and a flight simulator. The first aircraft entered service in October 2023 at Beja Air Base.

Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer’s Defense & Security, emphasized the significance of this delivery in enhancing the international recognition of the KC-390, particularly among NATO nations. He highlighted the long-term strategic partnership with the Portuguese Air Force, which has supported Embraer since the program’s inception.

General João Cartaxo Alves, Chief of Staff of the Portuguese Air Force, noted that the delivery of the second KC-390 will accelerate the integration of this advanced capability into their operations. The aircraft will enhance operational missions and prepare additional crew members and technicians, demonstrating the KC-390’s versatility and global mission value.

Since its introduction to the Brazilian Air Force in 2019 and the Portuguese Air Force in 2023, the KC-390 has showcased its capacity, reliability, and performance. The current fleet has logged over 13,000 flight hours, with operational availability of around 80% and mission completion rates above 99%, highlighting its exceptional productivity.

The KC-390 can carry a payload of 26 tons, surpassing other medium-sized military transport aircraft, and it can perform a variety of missions, including cargo and troop transport, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, and humanitarian missions. It can operate on temporary or unpaved runways, and it has proven its aerial refueling capability as both a tanker and a receiver.

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