Embraer has unveiled the latest addition to its executive jet family. The Lineage 1000 is an ultra-large business jet derivative of the Embraer 190.

"When we unveiled the Phenom jets only 12 months ago, we asserted to the business aviation community our firm commitment to stay in the industry and grow our presence," said Embraer president and ceo Mauricio Botelho.

"We are now taking advantage of the Embraer 190 platform to launch the Lineage 1000, a premium product with superior comfort and performance characteristics. This is yet another demonstration of Embraer's long term vision and will to serve our customers with a product that spans all across the market."

During the unveiling ceremony at EBACE in Geneva, the company displayed a range of interior options, with five separate zones, offering seating for up to 19 passengers in 4,085 cubic feet of cabin space.

Embraer senior vp, executive jets, Luis Carlos Affonso has long hinted that the company has been studying business jet models in every sector, though he does not believe that current competitors - such as the BBJ and ACJ - will contend with the new ultra-large jet.

"The Lineage 1000 is in a class of its own," he commented. "Abounding with space, premium comfort, refined appointments and convenient amenities, the aircraft will deliver the ultimate in travel comfort, performance and operational economics."

Priced at $40.95 million, the Lineage 1000 is expected to enter service in mid-2008. It will feature wireless internet access, EFB and 615 cubic

feet of baggage space. Powered by GE CF34-10E7 engines, which deliver 18,500 pounds of thrust, its range

will be 4,200nm (carrying eight passengers with NBAA IFR reserves and 200nm alternate).

By way of comparison, the Airbus ACJ has a range of 6,000 nautical miles and is priced at $52 million new. Boeing's BBJ has a range of 6,200 nautical miles and costs $54.5 million.