Embraer has enhanced its Praetor 500 midsize and Praetor 600 super-midsize business jets, by making a HEPA air filter standard equipment and certifying a new electric lavatory pocket door. It has also tested and approved the use of MicroShield360, a preventative coating system designed to continuously inhibit the growth of microbes on surfaces.
“The Praetors truly lead the way as the most disruptive and technologically advanced aircraft in their respective categories for features such as the best-in-class environmental control system and cabin altitude,” said Michael Amalfitano, president and CEO, Embraer Executive Jets. “In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the incorporation of new health and safety technologies is paramount, which is why we are proud to deliver even more value to Praetor customers with this series of cabin enhancements. Furthermore, with the certification of the new electric lavatory pocket door, the Praetors combine the cleanest cabin environment and compliance with the most stringent operational requirements, such as Part 135.”
As new-generation aircraft, the Praetor 500 and Praetor 600 were designed with the latest technologies, including the ability to move 100% fresh air through the cabin. Embraer says the HEPA filter further improves cabin air quality, capturing 99.97% of all particles, such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. In addition, the Praetor family features a 5,800ft cabin altitude at 45,000ft.
Embraer developed the electric lavatory pocket door to further enhance the atmosphere of safety and cleanliness in the cabin. It was certified by ANAC in early June 2020, and recently validated by EASA and the FAA. This new optional feature, which allows passengers to open the lavatory door by pressing a button, is now available for delivery in new Praetor jets, and can be retrofitted on both Praetor and Legacy 450 and 500 models (starting in the fourth quarter of 2020).
The new electric lavatory pocket door enables all Praetor aircraft to have an emergency exit in the lavatory – even those under FAA Part 135 operations. The company says that moving the emergency exit to the lavatory minimises placards in the cabin, as well as bringing temperature management and noise reduction benefits as well as enabling full seat and table functionality.