Brazil-based aircraft manufacturer Embraer has reportedly informed Indian airlines that it requires confirmed orders for over 200 aircraft before setting up a commercial jet final assembly line in the country, as per The Times of India.
Should airlines be unable to immediately place such substantial orders, Embraer has proposed beginning with a completion facility. Under this model, jets produced in Brazil would be flown to India for livery painting, seat installation, and cabin outfitting prior to handover.
The company projects demand for approximately 500 regional aircraft in India over the coming years, driven largely by the government’s UDAN initiative, which focuses on strengthening connectivity to smaller cities.
Embraer plans to locally assemble the Embraer E175, a regional jet configured to carry 76 to 88 passengers and suited for short- to mid-range routes.
At present, Star Air operates eight E175 aircraft, while Reliance Industries deploys one for corporate use. To secure fleet-scale commitments, Embraer’s leadership has been engaging with executives at major airlines including Air India under the Tata Group umbrella, with talks involving IndiGo also expected.
In parallel, the Adani Group is studying potential locations for the assembly plant, with Dholera identified as a leading option.
To support long-term manufacturing ambitions, Embraer has been strengthening its Indian supplier network. Over the past year and a half, the company has formed partnerships with domestic vendors and recently entered into an agreement with Hindalco to assess local production of aerospace-grade aluminium. Embraer currently works with more than 15 Indian supply chain partners.
