PARIS, France - Following a rigorous evaluation, Embraer has selected GE's CF34-8E and CF34-10E turbofan engines to power, respectively, Embraer's new 70-passenger ERJ-170 and 98- to 108-passenger ERJ-190 airliners.

The CF34-8E and CF34-10E, the most recent additions to GE's CF34 family of engines, incorporate the service-proven reliability, environmental benefits, and operational features of current in-service models.

The CF34-8E propulsion system features a new underwing nacelle/installation specifically tailored to the Embraer aircraft. Rated in the 14,000-pound-thrust class, the CF34-8E shares 100 percent common turbomachinery, and 87 percent overall parts commonality, as well as a common FADEC (full authority digital electronic control), with GE's CF34-8C1 and CF34-8D engines, which are currently in development.

CF34-8E engine testing, scheduled to begin in June 2000, is coordinated to support the first flight of the ERJ-170, scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2001. Certification of the CF34-8E by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is targeted for September 2001.

The CF34-10E, rated in the 18,000-pound-thrust class, will incorporate the CF34-8E compressor, combined with a larger booster fan and modified turbine components. FAA certification of the CF34-10E is targeted for the fourth quarter of 2002.

"We are extremely pleased with Embraer's selection of GE engines for their ERJ-170 and ERJ-190 airliners," said Chuck Chadwell, vice president of Commercial Engines for GE Aircraft Engines. "This win gives our CF34 growth engine family an even greater production and operational experience base that will prove to be of direct benefit to our airline and airframe customers.

"We appreciate the confidence that Embraer has placed in us, and we look forward with great enthusiasm to working with the Embraer team on what we feel will be a successful development program and a smooth introduction into service."