Quantcast

Embraer's ambitious CBA 123 Vector project canceled due to rising costs

Embraer's ambitious CBA 123 Vector project canceled due to rising costs
Policy
Webp 9d8e4n9zvnq6npvse1f7c4oouh5n
Airbus A380 | Airbus

The CBA 123 Vector was a collaborative aircraft project between Embraer of Brazil and FMA of Argentina, aimed at creating a 19-seat turboprop for regional flights. Despite having secured 130 orders, the project was canceled in 1991 due to escalating costs.

The joint venture began with an agreement signed by Presidents José Sarney of Brazil and Raul Alfonsín of Argentina in 1986. The project's name, CBA, stood for "Cooperación / Cooperação Brasil-Argentina," reflecting the cooperation between the two countries. The design featured innovative elements such as twin rearward-facing counter-rotating 'pusher' props intended to reduce cabin noise and vibration while allowing a smaller wing design.

Two prototypes were completed, with the first flight occurring in July 1990. However, rising development costs made it difficult to market the aircraft competitively. By 1990, projected costs had increased from USD $3 million to around USD $5 million per unit.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

Despite initial strong interest and orders, several factors led to the project's cancellation. No solution was found for cost overruns, suppliers demanded higher prices and advance payments, and political instability in Brazil resulted in reduced government funding. Additionally, strong competition from other aircraft like the Embraer ERJ-145 made it challenging for the CBA 123 Vector to enter the market.

Though no production units were built or delivered, some aspects of its design contributed to Embraer's later success with the ERJ 145 series. Today, three prototypes are preserved: one at Memorial Aeroespacial Brasileiro in São José dos Campos, another at Museu Aerospatiale in Rio de Janeiro, and a third at National University of Córdoba in Argentina.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

London Heathrow, recognized as Europe's busiest airport, will soon experience an increase in its flight offerings by Oman Air.

Sep 2, 2025

Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport will commence safety and airfield improvement projects on Runway 12R-30L in two distinct phases throughout 2025.

Aug 22, 2025

Delta Air Lines is adjusting its service between Atlanta and Anchorage, extending flights beyond the summer travel season to a year-round offering.

May 15, 2025

In December 2022, Southwest Airlines faced a major crisis as operational challenges led to the cancellation of 16,900 flights, affecting nearly two million passengers during a peak travel period.

Apr 19, 2025

Harrison Ford, an acclaimed actor known for roles such as Han Solo in "Star Wars" and Indiana Jones, is also a noted aviation enthusiast.

Apr 19, 2025

Iberia Airlines has confirmed a notable shift in its flight schedule connecting Madrid and Dallas/Fort Worth, introducing its first overnight service from Europe to the US.

Apr 19, 2025