EASA has issued type certification for Embraer’s E-Freighter aircraft, following earlier approvals in 2024 by both the FAA and Brazil’s ANAC aviation regulator. Announcing certification of the conversion on Tuesday, Embraer said the E190F model is now effectively cleared to operate worldwide.

The type certificate has been earned in less than 12 months since the E-Freighter derivative of its E-Jets family of passenger airliners made its first flight in April 2024, which was followed by an appearance at the Farnborough International air show in July. Embraer started work on the program in March 2022 to fill what it views as a gap in the air cargo sector to replace older aircraft types.

According to Embraer, converted E-Jet models will provide operators that are replacing older large twin turboprop aircraft with 40% more cabin volume and a three-fold increase in range. The Brazilian manufacturer added that the E-Freighter will have 30% lower operating costs than larger narrowbody airliners. Factoring in cargo space below the floor and main deck of the aircraft, the maximum structural payload for the E190F is 29,700 pounds.

“EASA certification is a major milestone in our passenger-to-freighter conversion program,” commented Martin Holmes, chief commercial officer of Embraer Commercial Aviation. “This is an exciting market, and we have developed the perfect aircraft to fill the gap, meeting the demand globally for faster deliveries, not just in metro areas, but all regions.”