Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia Charter Guide
See Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia VIP cabin details, range, pricing, and book with FlyRoving for business or leisure regional flights.
Key Points: Why Charter the Embraer EMB-120 VIP?
- Up to 1,500 nautical miles (2,778 km) of range with VIP-configured weight optimization.
- Twin Pratt & Whitney Canada PW118/118A engines offer strong climb performance and excellent reliability.
- Spacious stand-up turboprop VIP cabin with lounge-style seating for 8–14 passengers.
- Ultra-low operating cost compared to light and midsize jets.
- Proven regional-airliner durability with enhanced noise reduction and upgraded interior comfort.
Embraer EMB-120 VIP Development & Background
The Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia was originally introduced in the mid-1980s as a high-performance regional turboprop designed for short- and medium-range airline operations. Built on a rugged airliner platform, it quickly earned a reputation for dispatch reliability, structural durability, and efficient operating economics.
The VIP version of the EMB-120 leverages the airframe’s strong foundations while transforming the cabin into a private-aviation environment. These executive conversions are performed by Embraer-approved completion centers, replacing the standard 30-seat airline interior with a luxurious 8–14 passenger VIP configuration. Upgrades typically include club seating, conference layouts, upgraded insulation packages, modern cabin entertainment, and optional lavatory enhancements.
Powered by PW118-series turboprops, the VIP EMB-120 maintains excellent fuel efficiency, a high cruise speed for a turboprop, and short-field capability ideal for regional business missions. Its combination of low cost, airliner-grade reliability, and private-jet-style comfort make it one of the most cost-effective VIP aircraft available today.
Embraer EMB-120 VIP Key Specifications
| Metric | Specification |
| Manufacturer | Embraer |
| Base Airframe | EMB-120 Brasilia |
| First Delivery | 1985 (VIP conversions ongoing) |
| Crew | 2 pilots + 1 attendant (optional) |
| Passenger Capacity | 8–14 VIP passengers |
| Engines | 2 × Pratt & Whitney Canada PW118 / PW118A |
| Maximum Thrust | 1,800–1,900 shp each |
| Maximum Range | 1,200–1,500 nm (2,222–2,778 km) depending on configuration |
| Maximum Cruise Speed | 300–315 KTAS (345–360 mph / 555–580 km/h) |
| Long-Range Cruise | 280–290 KTAS |
| Service Ceiling | 32,000 ft (9,754 m) |
| Takeoff Distance (MTOW) | 4,300 ft (1,310 m) |
| Landing Distance | 3,700 ft (1,128 m) |
| Cabin Dimensions (L x W x H) | 30 ft × 6.2 ft × 5.7 ft (9.1 m × 1.9 m × 1.73 m) |
| Cabin Volume | 410 cu ft (11.6 m³) |
| Baggage Volume | 140 cu ft (4 m³) |
| Maximum Takeoff | Weight 26,433 lb (12,000 kg) |
Embraer EMB-120 VIP Cabin Experience
Stepping aboard the EMB-120 VIP reveals a cabin designed to blend private jet comfort with turboprop versatility. The interior can be configured with 8–14 plush VIP seats, often arranged in club and divan layouts, complemented by polished wood finishes, upgraded lighting, enhanced sound insulation, and modern connectivity options.
While not a stand-up cabin for most passengers, the EMB-120 VIP offers a noticeably wider interior than most turboprops, providing ample elbow room, aisle space, and lounge-style arrangements.
Thanks to its upgraded insulation and aerodynamic refinements, cabin noise levels are significantly lower than the commercial EMB-120, enhancing comfort on 1–3 hour missions.
Embraer EMB-120 VIP Operating Costs & Market Insights
| Category | Estimate |
| Direct Operating Cost | $1,800 – $2,400 per flight hour |
| Charter Rate | $3,500 – $5,000 per hour |
| Fuel Burn | 450–500 lbs per hour (~70–80 gph) |
| Maintenance Programs | Embraer support, CAMP, JSSI (select parts) |
| Average Market Value (2025) | $2.0M – $3.5M (VIP converted) |
Embraer EMB-120 VIP One-Way Charter Pricing Estimates (2025)
Actual pricing will vary with fuel costs, seasonal demand, and aircraft repositioning needs.
Charter the EMB-120 VIP From Miami (MIA / OPF)
- Miami → Nassau: $9,000 – $11,000 — ~45m
- Miami → Turks & Caicos: $14,000 – $17,000 — ~1h 40m
- Miami → Atlanta: $13,000 – $16,000 — ~1h 50m
Charter the EMB-120 VIP From Los Angeles (LAX / VNY)
- Los Angeles → Las Vegas: $9,000 – $11,000 — ~1h 00m
- Los Angeles → San Francisco: $12,000 – $15,000 — ~1h 30m
- Los Angeles → Phoenix: $10,000 – $13,000 — ~1h 20m
Charter the EMB-120 VIP From New York (TEB / HPN)
- New York → Washington, D.C.: $10,000 – $13,000 — ~1h 10m
- New York → Toronto: $14,000 – $17,000 — ~1h 30m
- New York → Chicago: $17,000 – $21,000 — ~2h 10m
Charter the EMB-120 VIP From Houston (HOU / IAH)
- Houston → Dallas: $8,000 – $10,000 — ~1h 00m
- Houston → Monterrey: $13,000 – $16,000 — ~1h 40m
- Houston → New Orleans: $9,000 – $12,000 — ~1h 10m
Embraer EMB-120 VIP Aircraft Capabilities & Performance
Powered by two PW118-series turboprop engines, the EMB-120 VIP delivers strong regional performance with airliner-grade reliability. It cruises at 300+ knots, operates up to 32,000 ft, and handles short and medium-length runways with ease.
Pilots typically fly with Collins Pro Line avionics or upgraded EFIS suites, enabling smooth, modern navigation and situational awareness. Its short-field capability makes it well-suited for island hops, regional business routes, and trips into secondary airports where larger jets cannot operate efficiently.
Embraer EMB-120 VIP Booking Process with FlyRoving
Booking with FlyRoving is fast and seamless:
• Request a Quote: Submit your itinerary through FlyRoving.com or call the 24/7 concierge.
• Review Options: Receive curated aircraft matches, photos, safety ratings, and transparent pricing.
• Confirm & Pay: Secure your reservation with digital contracts and flexible payment options.
• Fly: Depart from a private terminal and enjoy smooth, VIP-configured turboprop travel.
FlyRoving delivers personalized service, competitive pricing, and a streamlined charter experience from start to finish.