Brazilian airframer Embraer announced it has received certification from its home country, with U.S. approval expected soon. Certification testing revealed an increase in top speed to 390 knots-10 knots higher than expected. Fuel consumption was also better than projected by some 3.6 percent. Embraer broke ground last Thursday on a new 150,000-square-foot site in Melbourne, Florida, earmarked for assembly of the Phenom line of light business jets, which also includes the larger Model 300. The new building will also support operators of all Embraer business jets and serve as a center for customers to define their Phenom interior configurations. Embraer President and CEO Frederico Fleury Curado presided over the ceremonies, citing a relationship with the state of Florida dating back almost 30 years. The facility is expected to open in 2010.
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