The Embraer E190F, a freighter converted from the E-Jet family, has been fully certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This milestone, achieved in September 2024, confirms the certification of Embraer’s passenger-to-freighter conversion process as well as the Cargo System developed by U.S. Cargo Systems. The aircraft had already received certification from Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) in July 2024, and approval from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is expected later this year.
The E190F was introduced to address a growing gap in the air cargo industry, driven largely by the rising demands of e-commerce and modern trade. As companies increasingly prioritize fast deliveries and decentralized operations, the need for efficient regional cargo transport has grown. Embraer launched the E-Freighter program in May 2022, positioning the aircraft as a replacement for older, less efficient models currently in service.
Following its maiden flight in April 2024, the E190F made its public debut at the Farnborough Airshow in July. The aircraft is designed to provide an optimal solution for faster deliveries to regional markets, ensuring both urban and remote areas benefit from expedited shipping services.
Enhanced Capabilities and Efficiency
The converted E-Jets offer a number of competitive advantages. According to Embraer, the E190F delivers over 40% more cargo volume than existing large cargo turboprops and has three times the range. Additionally, it offers up to 30% lower operating costs compared to larger narrow-body freighters. The maximum structural payload is 13,500 kg, with cargo space available on both the main deck and below the floor.
“FAA certification is a major milestone in our passenger-to-freighter conversion program,” said Martyn Holmes, Chief Commercial Officer at Embraer Commercial Aviation. “We’re excited to enter this market, filling a gap that has evolved globally for faster deliveries—not just in metropolitan areas but across all regions. With our E-Jet footprint in the U.S. and around the world, we’re providing optimal cargo solutions to our customers in this connected world.”
With the E190F program now certified by the FAA, Embraer is poised to expand its presence in the global air cargo market. As the demand for faster, more efficient logistics continues to grow, particularly in the e-commerce sector, the E-Freighter is set to play a key role in modernizing regional air cargo operations.
