Embraer Brasilia Emb 120

Twin Turboprop· 50 globally registered

The Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia is a twin-turboprop regional airliner that became one of the most successful commuter aircraft of the 1980s and 1990s. First flown in 1983 and entering service in 1985, the Brasilia was designed to fill the gap between 19-seat turboprops and larger regional jets, offering pressurized comfort for 30 passengers on routes up to 1,000 nautical miles. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney PW118 or PW118A engines driving four-blade propellers, the type became a workhorse for regional carriers across the Americas, Europe, and Australia, with over 350 aircraft delivered before production ended in 2001. The Brasilia's low-wing configuration and T-tail gave it excellent short-field performance and the ability to operate from challenging airports that larger jets couldn't serve. Its cruising speed of around 300 knots made it competitive with early regional jets while burning significantly less fuel, and its 20,000-foot service ceiling allowed it to fly above most weather. The type earned a reputation for reliability and dispatch rates exceeding 98 percent, making it a favorite among operators who valued economics over speed. While many have been retired from passenger service in North America and Europe, the EMB-120 remains active in cargo operations, charter work, and scheduled service in developing markets where its rugged design and modest operating costs continue to make sense. Military variants serve as maritime patrol and transport aircraft with several air forces. SkyMeter has tracked 183 flights across 26 airframes and 14 operators over routes, with UAS TRANSERVICES INC the largest observed operator.