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

EasyJet's cabin crew in Spain initiated a three-day strike on June 25, 2025, demanding pay parity with their counterparts in other European countries.

Jun 28, 2025

Denver International Airport (DEN) has long been a subject of intrigue and speculation.

Jun 28, 2025

On June 24, Royal Air Maroc began operations at London Stansted Airport, marking its entry into the UK's fourth-busiest airport.

Jun 28, 2025

Qatar Airways is set to operate its longest scheduled non-stop route in 2025 between Doha and Auckland.

Jun 28, 2025

Copa Airlines has launched its inaugural flight from Panama City to San Diego, marking the first time the Central American carrier serves this Californian city.

Jun 28, 2025

The Boeing 747, once a symbol of intercontinental air travel, has seen its passenger service era come to an end in the United States.

Jun 28, 2025