PT-ZBA was a Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia that was built by Embraer as the prototype of the EMB-120 and the very first example of the EMB-120.
History
Construction and first flight The PT-ZBA took its maiden flight on July 27th, 1983. The Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia was designed as a regional turboprop aircraft, capable of carrying passengers and cargo efficiently. The airliner was used only by Embraer as a demonstrator of the EMB-120 and was never used by any other airline. Throughout its life, the aircraft utilized two PWC PW118 engines.
Brasília series Following the successful testing and certification of the prototype, production of the Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia series began in 1985. These aircraft were widely used for regional transport, connecting smaller cities and towns. The production of the Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia officially came to an end in 2001.
Preservation The aircraft was retired from active service by Embraer and placed into storage at São José dos Campos in 2003. As of today, PT-ZBA is preserved at São José dos Campos Airport and the Embraer plant.
References
Further reading