WASHINGTON, July 20, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --

Leading Brazilian Aircraft Manufacturer Shows its Commitment to Sustainability

Embraer, the world’s largest manufacturer of commercial jets up to 120 seats, has become the newest member of the Aircraft Fleet Recycling Association (AFRA). The announced was made, today, at AFRA’s Annual Meeting, in Washington, D.C., USA.

Embraer becomes the third leading aircraft manufacturers to link-up with AFRA.

Martin Fraissignes, Executive Director of AFRA, warmly welcomed Embraer into the AFRA fold. “We are delighted that such a prestigious company as Embraer has decided to join us on our journey to develop and promote environmental best practices throughout the field of aircraft dismantling and recycling. AFRA membership further confirms Embraer’s commitment to pushing for the best sustainable practices in our industry.”

For the past five years, AFRA has set industry standards for the safe and sustainable disassembly of end-of-service aircraft, which are of environmental and financial value to the industry. Now, Embraer joins AFRA to promote environmental excellence and sustainable solutions in the field of aircraft dismantling and recycling.

“Embraer’s membership in AFRA will intensify the exchange of experiences regarding recycling and/or the final disposal of aeronautical components, as well as the technical interchange between professionals, in order to incorporate new technologies with the integrated product development process,” said Guilherme de Almeida Freire, Embraer Director, Environmental Strategy and Technology.

Embraer has a strong and longstanding commitment to developing environmentally responsible industrial processes and sustainable business practices, which AFRA believes will be a welcome addition to its efforts to move the industry forward. With Embraer onboard, AFRA membership has now reached 56 companies and organisations, further reinforcing its position as the global leader in the field of aircraft end-of-life best practices.

About AFRA

Established in 2006, AFRA is a not-for-profit industry association with 56 members whose businesses focus on environmentally responsible management of aircraft as they reach the end of their life cycles.

About Embraer

Embraer S.A. (NYSE: ERJ; BM&FBOVESPA: EMBR3) is the world’s largest manufacturer of commercial jets up to 120 seats, and one of Brazil’s leading exporters. Embraer’s headquarters are located in São José dos Campos, São Paulo, and it has offices, industrial operations and customer service facilities in Brazil, China, France, Portugal, Singapore, and the U.S.

SOURCE AFRA