Embraer (www.embraer.com)has begun to ‘crystallise’ its previously disclosed interest in the market for turbo-prop airliners, following a series of meetings with potential customers.

The ‘European advisory board’ met on 12 and 13 September at Embraer’s European headquarters (near Amsterdam), with over 20 major carriers participating.

Speaking at an Aviation Club event in London, Embraer’s commercial aviation chief executive, John Slattery, said: “They met with us to engage for the first time on us addressing the turbo-prop market.”

He added that Embraer’s interest in the segment has been well received by airlines, as “they want competition” for market leader ATR and second-placed Bombardier.

“These carriers see us as a leading brand coming into a market we have not traditionally been in — like Ferrari entering the SUV market.”

Mr Slattery emphasises that no decision has been made on any potential product launch, with the initial talks intended to discover “how those airlines felt about the incumbent offerings.

It is an area we are very interested in, but we are only in the early stages of considering the business case.”

No decision has been made on the size of any potential clean-sheet aircraft, nor the potential market, but initial discussions with engine manufacturers have already taken place.

Mr Slattery said Embraer has an ambition to be the sector leader in the market for sub-150-seat aircraft.