Ireland’s JetBird Increases to 53 Number of Brazilian Embraer Jets Ordered

Dublin-based air taxi operator JetBird confirmed three options for the Phenom 100 jet manufactured by Brazilian company Embraer, increasing JetBird's firm order backlog to 53 Phenom 100 jets. The Irish company placed an initial order for 50 Phenom 100 jets, in May 2006, with options for another 50 jets. The first delivery is expected for 2009.

"We are glad to see the steady progress that JetBird, our largest European customer, has been making towards its start of operations in 2009," said Luis Carlos Affonso, Embraer Executive Vice President, Executive Jets.

"JetBird's decision to begin exercising its purchase options further upholds our belief that the Phenom 100 is the best solution in its category."

"We are delighted to begin confirming our option aircraft in accordance with the targets set in our original business plan," said Stefan Vilner, CEO of JetBird. "Our decision reflects the confidence we have in the Phenom 100, as the best aircraft in its class, delivering high utilization and efficiency, combined with state-of-the-art technology and the premium comfort of a private jet."

The Phenom 100 interior, designed in partnership with BMW Group DesignworksUSA, can include an aft lavatory, with an optional partition door, a refreshment center, and satellite communication for greater passenger convenience.