Last month Embraer released more details about its very light jet and light jet programs. Besides announcing that it has selected BMW DesignWorksUSA to design the interior for the two twinjets, the Brazilian manufacturer released clearer development timelines for the two aircraft.

Embraer’s $2.75 million, Pratt & Whitney Canada PW617F-powered very light jet has just entered the detailed design phase, which will conclude in the first quarter of 2007, when the six- to eight-seat VLJ is expected to make its first flight. Brazilian and FAA certification is planned for mid-2008.

The company’s $6.65 million, P&WC PW535E-powered light jet will enter a six-month joint definition phase in January, after which the project moves into an 18-month detailed design phase. First flight of the nine-seat jet is scheduled for the first half of 2008, with Brazilian and FAA approval expected by mid-2009.

An Embraer spokesman told AIN that the common-platform jets will receive names this month at the NBAA Convention, shedding their current VLJ and LJ monikers. The manufacturer also plans to announce at the show its chosen avionics supplier (thought to be L-3) for the jets’ flight decks.