PT-ZBA was a Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia that was built by Embraer as the prototype of the EMB-120 and the very first example of the EMB-120.

PT-ZBA
General information
TypeEmbraer EMB 120 Brasilia
ManufacturerEmbraer
Service1983-2003
RegistrationPT-ZBA
Serial120001
History
Manufactured1983
First flightJuly 27th, 1983
Last flight2003
Preserved atSão José dos Campos Airport at São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil
FateOn static display

History

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Construction and first flight

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The PT-ZBA took its maiden flight on July 27th, 1983. The Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia was designed as a regional turboprop aircraft, capable of carrying passengers and cargo efficiently. The airliner was used only by Embraer as a demonstrator of the EMB-120 and was never used by any other airline.[1] Throughout its life, the aircraft utilized two PWC PW118 engines.[2][failed verification]

Brasília series

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Following the success of testing the prototype and certification, production of the Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia series began in 1985. These aircraft were widely used for regional transport, connecting smaller cities and towns. Production of the Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia would officially come to an end in 2001.[3]

Preservation

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The aircraft was retired from active service by Embraer and placed into storage at São José dos Campos in 2003. As of today, PT-ZBA is preserved at São José dos Campos Airport and the Embraer plant.[citation needed]

References

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  1. ^ "Air Force Magazine - Volume 71". Air Force Magazine. Air Force Association. 1988. p. 91.
  2. ^ "Embraer EMB-120". businessairnews.com. Retrieved 7 November 2022.
  3. ^ Griffin, Matt (19 August 2019). "Embraer celebrates 50th anniversary". ifn.news.

Further reading

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