Skip to main content

Embraer 120

The Embraer EMB 120 Brasilia—commonly known as the Embraer 120—is a highly successful regional turboprop aircraft developed by Embraer. Designed for short- to medium-haul routes, it became a cornerstone of regional aviation in the 1980s and 1990s.

Embraer 120

What Is the Embraer 120?

The Embraer 120 Brasilia is a twin-engine turboprop regional airliner built to carry around 30 passengers. It was designed to offer faster speeds and improved comfort compared to earlier turboprop aircraft like the Embraer EMB 110 Bandeirante.

Its name “Brasilia” honors Brazil’s capital city, symbolizing modernization and progress.

History and Development

The Embraer 120 was introduced in the early 1980s as a response to growing demand for efficient regional air travel.

Key milestones:

1983: First flight

1985: Entered commercial service

Widely adopted by regional airlines worldwide

The aircraft quickly became popular due to its speed, reliability, and operating efficiency.

Embraer 120 Specifications

Here are the main technical specifications of the Embraer EMB 120 Brasilia:

Aircraft Type: Twin-engine turboprop

Passenger Capacity: ~30 passengers

Length: ~20 meters

Wingspan: ~19.8 meters

Cruise Speed: ~550 km/h

Range: ~1,700 km

Engines: Pratt & Whitney Canada PW118/PW118A

These specifications made it ideal for regional airline networks and commuter routes.

Design and Features

1. Pressurized Cabin

Unlike smaller predecessors, the Embraer 120 features a pressurized cabin, improving passenger comfort at higher altitudes.

2. Higher Speed

It offers significantly faster travel times compared to earlier turboprops, making it competitive with small jets.

3. Efficient Aerodynamics

The sleek design enhances fuel efficiency and performance.

4. Reliability

Known for its durability, the aircraft became a trusted option for airlines operating frequent regional flights.

Performance and Operational Use

The Embraer 120 is well-suited for:

Short- to medium-haul routes

High-frequency regional services

Operations from smaller airports

It was widely used by regional carriers to connect smaller cities with major hubs.

Global Operators

The Embraer 120 has been operated by numerous airlines across:

North America

South America

Europe

Africa

Notable regional carriers in the United States relied heavily on the aircraft during the 1990s.

Advantages of the Embraer 120

Faster than many turboprops of its time

Comfortable passenger cabin

Proven reliability

Efficient operating costs

Limitations

Despite its strengths, the Embraer 120 has some drawbacks:

Smaller capacity compared to modern regional jets

Higher noise levels than jets

Aging technology

Legacy and Impact

The Embraer 120 played a vital role in bridging the gap between small commuter aircraft and regional jets. Its success paved the way for future aircraft like:

Embraer ERJ 135

Embraer E190

It helped solidify Embraer’s position as a global leader in regional aviation.

Is the Embraer 120 Still in Service?

Yes, although many have been retired, some Embraer 120 aircraft are still in operation today, mainly in:

Charter services

Cargo operations

Limited regional routes

However, most airlines have replaced it with more modern jets and turboprops.

Conclusion

The Embraer 120 Brasilia remains one of the most important regional aircraft ever built. Its combination of speed, efficiency, and reliability made it a favorite among airlines for decades.

Even today, it stands as a symbol of the evolution of regional air travel and continues to influence modern aircraft design.

MORE:


AEROMACHINEX BLOG: SUBSCRIBE

POPULAR POSTS:

Trimmable Horizontal Stabilizer

The trimmable horizontal stabilizer (THS) is a key component of modern aircraft tail design, responsible for maintaining longitudinal stability and enabling precise control of the aircraft’s pitch. Unlike fixed stabilizers, a trimmable stabilizer can change its angle of incidence relative to the fuselage. This adjustability allows it to balance the aerodynamic forces acting on the aircraft, reduce pilot workload, and improve efficiency during different phases of flight. Trimmable Horizontal Stabilizer Purpose of a Horizontal Stabilizer The horizontal stabilizer is located at the tail of the aircraft and serves as a balancing surface to counteract the nose-down pitching moment generated by the wings and engines. Its primary functions are: Maintaining longitudinal stability. Assisting in pitch control when combined with the elevator. Providing trim adjustments to minimize continuous control input by the pilot. Trimmable vs. Non-Trimmable Stabilizers Fixed Horizontal Stabilizer wit...
Read more

Aircraft Maintenance Technician, Cabin Maintenance vacancy in Delta airlines, US

Location: UNITED STATES, MASSACHUSETTS, BOSTON HOW YOU'LL HELP THEM KEEP CLIMBING (OVERVIEW & KEY RESPONSIBILITIES) The Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) is a critical TechOps role at Delta.  In this role, you will maintain the proper and safe functioning of Delta’s fleet, ensuring customers have an exceptional travel experience.  AMTs maintain aircraft, aircraft engines, and aircraft components and avionics systems according to Delta and FAA specifications; perform inspections during assembly of parts and after repair or installation of components; document maintenance procedures including component damage, origin, and condition; and practice safety conscious behaviors in all operational processes and procedures.   Summary of responsibilities (not comprehensive of all tasks):   Performs all work activities in accordance with established laws, regulations, standards, safety protocols, and procedures to ensure safety of self and others.   Inspects aircraft o...
Read more

Cabin Mechanic vacancy in Ryanair, U.K.

Location: Stansted, United Kingdom Employment Type: Full-time Cabin Mechanic Description Cabin Mechanic: Ryanair is officially the Number 1 International Airline and operates more than 2000 flights per day from 87 Bases across Europe and North Africa with 1800+ Low Fare Routes across 33 countries, connecting 205 destinations. AES (Aircraft Engineering Services) are currently recruiting for a Cabin Mechanic to be based at London Stansted Airport. Responsibilities for the role of the Cabin Mechanic will include: Carry out rectifications for aircraft interior defects. Carry out special requests for aircraft defects raised by Aircraft Appearance Department Ensure rectifications are reported daily. Assist other Engineering groups Monitor stock levels of materials required to fulfil duties. Ensure correct reporting procedures are applied and accurate daily reports are logged and sent to Aircraft Appearance Department. Requirements of the Cabin Mechanic: Aircraft / Maintenance / Cabin Trim ...
Read more

Light Maintenance | Aircraft Mechanic vacancy in Qatar airways, Qatar

Location: Doha, Qatar About the role They are recruiting for Aircraft Mechanic with Light Maintenance to be based in Doha, Qatar. Aircraft Mechanic will be responsible to deliver Aircraft Maintenance services to support the operational requirements as directed by their supervisor and will ensure all maintenance and related activities are performed in accordance with the company/customer procedures and supplied aircraft maintenance data. Specific responsibilities of the role include: Operational Conducts tests and inspections of products, services or processes to evaluate quality or performance. Adjust, aligns and calibrates aircraft systems, using hand tools, gauges and test equipment. Examines and inspects engines or other components for cracks, breaks or leaks. Dissembles and inspects parts for wear, warping or other defects. Assembles and installs electrical, plumbing mechanical, hydraulic and structural components and accessories using hand tools and power tools. Services, cleaning...
Read more

Aircraft Technician - Line Maintenance vacancy in Emirates, UAE

Location: Dubai, UAE Job Purpose Responsible for carrying out maintenance tasks on Emirates and third party aircraft components in accordance with company procedures and regulations. The Aircraft Technician works as part of a team under the direction and guidance of the assigned Licensed Aircraft Engineer within the appropriate trade/cross trade disciplines for which they have been trained Job Outline: - Carry out routine aircraft/engine/component servicing/ maintenance and/or approved structural repairs compliant to manufacturers procedures whilst observing all safety procedures for fluid replenishment, aircraft refuelling, aircraft systems charging/servicing as required. - Complete any component replacement and other maintenance activities as directed by immediate Supervisor. This will include the ability to obtain and understand Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM), Illustrated Parts catalogue (IPC), Component Maintenance Manual (CMM) or other approved documentation required to carry...
Read more

Aircraft Technician ( Cabin Maintenance) vacancy in Delta airlines, USA

The Aircraft Technician is a critical TechOps role at Delta.  In this role, you will maintain the proper and safe functioning of Delta’s fleet, ensuring customers have an exceptional travel experience.  Aircraft Technician maintain aircraft, aircraft engines, and aircraft components and avionics systems according to Delta and FAA specifications; perform inspections during assembly of parts and after repair or installation of components; document maintenance procedures including component damage, origin, and condition; and practice safety conscious behaviors in all operational processes and procedures. Location: US , MASSACHUSETTS , BOSTON Summary of responsibilities (not comprehensive of all tasks) of Aircraft Technician: Performs all work activities in accordance with established laws, regulations, standards, safety protocols, and procedures to ensure safety of self and others. Inspects aircraft or aircraft components, including landing gear, hydraulic systems, tires, and engines f...
Read more

Aircraft Mechanic, Line maintenance vacancy in United airlines, Taiwan

The role's job includes all work generally recognized as Aircraft Mechanic work in Company designated stations. This may include power plants, Line, ETOPS, TDY (fueling), parts, ground equipment, facilities and other related work as directed by leadership. Location: Taipei, Taiwan Aircraft Mechanic are responsible for all work being performed on shift. Aircraft Mechanic may be required to test, check, and certify for service work performed. Perform all aspects of aircraft maintenance work including servicing, repair, and proper work documentation in accordance with company procedures and specifications May require to exercise Aircraft Release Authority Demonstrate initiative and leadership to other mechanic Receive and dispatch arriving/departing aircraft. Perform other duties as assigned, such as towing, refueling, etc. This position is offered on local terms and conditions.  Expatriate assignments and sponsorship for employment visas, even on a time-limited visa status, will n...
Read more

Aircraft Mechanic vacancy in Ryanair, Poland | Entry level

Location: Wrocław, Poland Description ✈Heavy maintenance of Boeing 737-800 servicing for the Part-145 organization, ✈Working under the supervision of licensed B1 / B2 / C staff, ✈Working with technical documentation (AMM, SRM, IPC, FIM, etc.), ✈Working with a workshop team (structural and composite repairs), ✈Working with the AMOS system. ✈Assisting mechanics and engineers in daily aircraft repair ✈Ensuring all jobs are done in time and in accordance with requirements ✈Ensuring all training are done in time ✈Other duties related to aircraft repair Requirements ✈Experience in working as an aircraft mechanic on Boeing 737-800 ✈Good knowledge of English (written and oral) ✈Willing to work in shift system ✈Attention to detail, manual skills Benefits ✈Employment based on an employment contract, ✈Competitive salary DISCLAIMER: AeroMachineX just provide information regarding the vacancies in various companies and is not liable for any consequences that might arise during the job applicati...
Read more

Aircraft Technician, Base Maintenance vacancy in Emirates, UAE

Aircraft Technician is responsible for carrying out maintenance tasks on Emirates and third party aircraft components in accordance with company procedures and regulations. The Aircraft Technician works as part of a team under the direction and guidance of the assigned Licensed Aircraft Engineer within the appropriate trade/cross trade disciplines for which they have been trained Location: Dubai, UAE Job Outline of Aircraft Technician Carry out routine aircraft/engine/component servicing/ maintenance and/or approved structural repairs compliant to manufacturers procedures whilst observing all safety procedures for fluid replenishment, aircraft refuelling, aircraft systems charging/servicing as required. Complete any component replacement and other maintenance activities as directed by immediate Supervisor. This will include the ability to obtain and understand Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM), Illustrated Parts catalogue (IPC), Component Maintenance Manual (CMM) or other approved d...
Read more