In 2009, it was announced at the NBAA convention that Embraer already had two Legacy 650s flight testing. Certification took place in 2010 with first deliveries that same year. Originating from the ERJ-135, the Legacy 650 certification is based on the Legacy 600. The Legacy 650 was designed to expand the Legacy line and was not intended to replace the Legacy 600.
The wing comes from the EMB 145 with the addition of winglets, the structure has been reinforced, and the aft wing/fuselage fairing has been re-sculpted. A reinforced landing gear compensates for the higher weight of the Legacy 650 and Rolls-Royce AE 3007A2 engines each provide 9,020 pounds of thrust.
The Honeywell Primus Elite avionics suite is standard up front and the Rockwell Collins Airshow controls cabin entertainment. A lavatory and galley are also standard. An internal baggage compartment with a 240 cubic feet capacity is accessible in-flight and folding shelves are optional.
The "E" stands for Evolution. The 650E includes Primus Elite Advanced Features from Honeywell, with traffic collision avoidance system (TCAS), XM ground-based weather information, moving map, Synthetic Vision System and auto throttles. It is compliant with all next-generation airspace mandates and requirements.
In addition, two iPads with mounting systems are available in the cockpit for easier updates and a range of tools to support the operation. The feature reduces cockpit workload.
