Gautam Adani-led Adani Group has partnered with Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer S.A. to set up a small-jet manufacturing facility in India. Adani Defence and Aerospace, a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises Ltd, will finalize the project site over the next few months. This will be Embraer’s first production facility in Asia.
“Together, we will create a regional aircraft manufacturing hub and a unique aviation ecosystem in India, redefining the future of aviation,” said Jeet Adani, director of Adani Defence and Aerospace. Investment details and aircraft types are expected to be announced soon.
Embraer, the world’s third-largest civilian aircraft manufacturer after Boeing and Airbus, produces Embraer Regional Jets, E-Jets, private jets, defence aircraft, and agricultural planes. Unlike Boeing and Airbus, this facility will feature a final-line assembly (FLA) in India, where aircraft will be fully assembled.
“This partnership represents India’s vision for world-class aviation capabilities and aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat,” Gautam Adani said. Discussions with potential customers are already underway, though none of the major domestic carriers currently operate Embraer jets. Regional airline Star Air is the only carrier with an Embraer fleet and plans to place additional orders.
The facility will focus on small- to medium-sized aircraft suitable for regional connectivity. The models under consideration include the E-175 (76 seats) and the E195-E2 (up to 146 seats). Initially, components will be imported from Brazil, but a local supply chain will eventually be developed.
Arjan Meijer, President & CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, said the partnership leverages Embraer’s aerospace expertise and Adani’s industrial capabilities, supporting India’s regional transport aircraft ambitions.
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh highlighted that the collaboration reflects India’s evolving defence and aerospace strategy, emphasizing capability building, strategic partnerships, and global integration. Aircraft assembly in India marks a shift from merely being a market to becoming a participant in production.
Experts note that it could take 5–7 years for the first aircraft to roll out. Establishing a production line, certifying the aircraft, and building a local supply base will take time. India’s UDAN Scheme aims to increase regional connectivity, with Star Air, FLY91, IndiaOne, and Alliance Air currently operating small jets on regional routes, while larger carriers remain cautious about viability.
