Embraer celebrates 20 years since the certification of the first ethanol-powered Ipanema aircraft

Embraer (NYSE: ERJ; B3: EMBR3) celebrates 20 years since the certification of the ethanol-powered Ipanema EMB-202A agricultural aircraft, the world’s first and only mass-produced aircraft to fly on biofuel. Today, the model, which has undergone a technological evolution, is marketed under the designation EMB-203.

Since its certification on October 19, 2004, the Ipanema has already prevented the emission of more than 28 million tons of CO2, an average of 1.4 million tons per year. With domestic production, the aircraft has improved its performance thanks to the use of renewable energy sources.

“Over 570 ethanol-powered Ipanemas and over 210 previous-generation aircraft that had their engines converted from gasoline to biofuel have been sold in the last 20 years, which highlights the high level of confidence of our operators. Synonymous with efficiency and low operating costs, the Ipanema is the perfect solution for those seeking to increase productivity per hectare and contribute to the sustainability of the agricultural sector,” emphasizes Sany Onofre, leader of Embraer’s Agricultural Aviation.

With high technology and tradition, Ipanema increases productivity per hectare by up to 30% and reduces operating costs by up to 57% compared to other equipment by making operations more flexible, in addition to avoiding losses due to crushing in the crop, which is common when using other spraying solutions.

The Ipanema is constantly evolving to meet the most stringent safety and efficiency requirements. Proof of this is the new wing structure that increases efficiency, economy and productivity, a higher cabin with a new ergonomic concept, USB connectivity, a new air conditioning system, seat belts with airbags and levers that provide smoother steering movements.

Used for spraying solid or liquid products, the aircraft has also carried out a series of tests to approve the first aerial application methodology for biological pesticides in Brazil. The pioneering project to promote sustainability in national agribusiness is coordinated by Koppert, a global leader in the development and production of bioinputs for agriculture.