Legacy 500 jet completes ground vibration tests

With Ground Vibration Tests successfully completed, on the prototype #1, the Embraer Legacy 500 is moving toward its first flight in the third quarter and the beginning of its flight-test campaign. The Legacy 500 is scheduled to enter service between fourth quarter 2013 and first quarter 2014.

"We are progressing nicely toward our first flight," said Ernest Edwards, President, Embraer Executive Jets. "What we have seen to date provides us with great confidence in the Legacy 500 program as a game-changing executive aircraft."

Embraer expects to rollout Prototype #2 this month followed by the Honeywell HTF-7500E engine run and start of ground tests. The Prototype #3 fuselage has been completed and work is progressing toward its next milestone which is final assembly.

Configured with 10 seating positions, Prototype #3 will test interior materials and systems including the galley and Honeywell's Ovation®Select™ inflight entertainment system. Prototype #3 will be equipped with the same interior layout as that displayed on the Legacy 500 mockup at the 12th European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE).