Embraer reports that the first Phenom 100 fuselage and wing have been completed at the company's Botucatu plant, in
"We are thrilled to announce yet another key milestone in the Phenom 100 program," said Luis Carlos Affonso, Embraer executive vice president, Executive Jets. "The advanced technology applied to the Phenom 100 product design and manufacturing has enabled a smooth assembly of the fuselage and wings, and we have already begun the production of the second aircraft."
The design and production planning of the Phenom jets are entirely digital. The manufacturing of all primary parts was simulated via a digital manufacturing and virtual numeric-control software. After simulation, the main structures of the first Phenom 100 were built with an automated riveting machine. With the advance of the final assembly of the first jet, the main fuselage sections and structures of the second Phenom 100 aircraft have begun the initial assembly process.
As part of the industrial plan for the Phenom programs, Embraer is upgrading two of its plants. The Botucatu facilities are being expanded by 95,800 square feet (8,900 square meters) and reconfigured to incorporate the sub-assembly lines of the Phenom 100 and the Phenom 300. A new facility is now under construction at the Gaviao Peixoto plant. The 128,800-square-foot (11,970 square-meter) building will house administrative offices, engineering, receiving and the final assembly line for the Phenom 100 and the Phenom 300 jets. An additional building for custom painting will be constructed by the end of 2007. Final assembly of the fourth Phenom 100 and beyond will occur at the Gaviao Peixoto facility.
Announced in May 2005, the Phenom 100 and Phenom 300 programs are on schedule. The Phenom 100 maiden flight is planned for mid-2007 and entry into service by mid-2008. The first flight of the Phenom 300 is expected for mid- 2008 and deliveries by mid-2009.
