The first C-390 Millennium destined for the Czech Air Force has completed its maiden flight from Embraer’s facility in Gavião Peixoto, Brazil, marking a key step toward delivery of the new tactical transport to Prague. According to Embraer, the aircraft is the first of two C-390s ordered by the Czech Republic and flew last week as part of the initial test and verification campaign.
The new jet-powered airlifter is designed for multiple missions, including cargo and troop transport, airdrop of equipment and personnel, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, and humanitarian assistance. It is capable of carrying up to 26 tons of payload and cruising at speeds of up to 470 knots, placing it in the medium-lift military transport category.
The Czech Republic is among several international customers for the C-390 Millennium, joining operators such as Brazil, Portugal and Hungary, with aircraft also on order for countries including South Korea. Following the successful first flight in Brazil, the Czech aircraft will continue with flight testing and systems integration before being handed over to the Czech Air Force for operational evaluation and entry into service.