IATA EMBICAO E110

Embraer EMB 110 Bandeirante

Embraer

TravelerPulse profile

Brazil's pioneering regional turboprop, rugged and versatile.

First flight

1968

Category

Regional turboprop

Seating

15–19 passengers

Range

1,964 km

Engines

Two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-34 turboprops

Status

In service (limited)

The Embraer EMB 110 Bandeirante is a twin-turboprop commuter aircraft developed by Embraer of Brazil, representing the company's first major commercial success. Designed initially to meet a Brazilian Air Force requirement for a light transport, it entered civilian service in the mid-1970s and became a cornerstone of regional aviation across South America and beyond. Produced in numerous variants for passenger, cargo, maritime patrol, and medevac roles, the Bandeirante proved adaptable to diverse operational environments. Its rugged construction and relatively low operating costs made it popular with commuter airlines in the United States, Europe, and Australia during the 1970s and 1980s. Although largely retired from scheduled passenger service, some examples continue to operate in cargo, utility, and government roles around the world. The aircraft's success laid the foundation for Embraer's subsequent regional jet programs and established Brazil as a credible aircraft manufacturer.

Notable operators

Major operators included VASP, TAM, Transbrasil, Air Midwest, and numerous small commuter carriers across the Americas, Europe, and Australia.

Notable facts

›The EMB 110 was Embraer's first production aircraft, entering service in 1973.
›Over 500 Bandeirantes were built before production ended in 1990.
›It was designed with assistance from French engineers, including Max Holste.
›The aircraft was produced in more than a dozen variants for civil and military use.
›Its name 'Bandeirante' refers to the Brazilian pioneers who explored the interior of the country.