Launched in May 2006, the Lineage 1000 is the largest and most refined executive jet in Embraer's portfolio. The aircraft is based on the Embraer 190 commercial jet, which was certified in August 2005, and received its own STC in December 2008. The certification authorises the jet to operate under Extended Operations rules (ETOPS 120).

The cabin styling was developed in a partnership between Embraer and the UK-based design office Priestman Goode of London. Besides elegant and relaxing ambiences, the Lineage 1000 offers a broad range of interior layouts for five different cabin zones, where passengers may enjoy privacy for meetings, resting and meals. However, in addition there is also a private suite with a shower. The finely appointed cabin has three distinct temperature zones and a maximum altitude rating of 7,000 feet (2,134 metres).

To date, over 20 Lineage 1000 jets have been sold worldwide. The first is scheduled to enter customer service imminently. It is priced at $42.95m, based on January 2006 economic conditions, in its baseline configuration for FAA certification.

Embraer's Daniel Bachmann points out that support in the Middle East and Russia for the Lineage 1000 includes the Embraer-owned service centre in Alverca, Portugal and the Embraer-authorised Falcon Aviation Services, Dubai, service centre in the UAE.

He adds: "Embraer has provided three main contact channels to support customers, including emergency situations: dedicated field service representatives, service centres network and contact center, available 24-7-365."

Embraer holds advisory boards with experienced market professionals before the launch of a product and conducts focus group evaluations at aviation events in order to collect customer and prospect perceptions.

Bachmann says: "Man-machine interface groups are coordinated by the company to fine tune the cockpit layout, synoptics and systems manage-ment integration.

"A great majority of the recommendations received are implemented during product development, with some wish-list items being scheduled for availability after entry into service. Customer feedback during operation is evaluated by the product engineering group."

Targets include expanding the Embraer customer support structure to ensure a quick and efficient service in all regions operated by Embraer clients.