The Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia freighter is a twin-turboprop conversion from the base passenger airframe (in service since October 1985) and a common regional cargo type for short-hop routes. Naples-market cargo brokered on this airframe moves through RSW or Fort Lauderdale (FLL/FXE) rather than KAPF.
Base airframe entered passenger service in October 1985; cargo conversions (EMB-120FC / Cargo) followed widely from the 1990s. Main-cabin cargo volume 1,200 cubic feet (sources cite 1,200 to 1,500). Range 945 nautical miles at max payload of 8,800 pounds. Cruise 300 knots true, ceiling 32,000 feet (varies by source, 29,800 to 32,000; the reported value is the higher PW118A figure). Length 65.6 feet, wingspan 64.9 feet.
Performance and Cabin
- Category: Cargo Aircraft
- Manufacturer: Embraer
- Year introduced: 1985
- Seating: Crew only (cargo)
- Crew: 2
- Range: 945 nautical miles
- Cruise speed: 300 knots
- Service ceiling: 32,000 feet
- Length: 65.6 feet
- Wingspan: 64.9 feet
- Height: 20.8 feet
- Baggage volume: 1,200 cubic feet
- Lavatory: Crew only
Why the Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia Fits Naples
RSW to Nassau or Bimini short-hop cargo fits the EMB-120: e-commerce and perishable freight into small Bahamas fields where a 737F is oversized. Range covers most of the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos from Southwest Florida.
Intra-Florida hub feeder work (RSW to MIA, MIA to FLL, MCO to RSW) is a routine EMB-120 mission. The type moves consolidated cargo between the big freighter hubs and the regional distribution ramps.
Hurricane Ian (September 2022) precedent: turboprop freighters were part of the immediate airlift into RSW and PGD when the fields were passable but the jet freighters were held for larger relief loads. The EMB-120 lands on shorter or damaged surfaces where a 737F will not.
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Vetting Behind Every Trip
Every operator, aircraft, and crew goes through our internal due diligence before we present any options. Our internal standards meet or exceed what the FAA requires:
- FAR Part 135 charter operators for traditional private aircraft, or FAR Part 121 for airliner-size and group trips (or the foreign equivalent on international legs)
- Operator subscription to Wyvern and ARGUS reviewed where the operator participates; reports may be provided on request.
- Pilot experience and operator incident history reviewed before we recommend an aircraft.
- Fewer than 60 brokers worldwide hold Premium Wyvern Broker Member status, and Air Charter Advisors is one of them.
Charter Pricing Reference
Industry hourly rates for the Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia run $2,000 to $3,000 per hour as of 7/2026. Actual quotes vary by operator, routing, positioning, and date.
Hourly billing runs $2,000 to $3,000 per flight hour as of 7/2026 (source: ACA published range). Short-hop cargo economics work when the leg is under three hours; anything longer, the ATR 72F or a narrowbody jet freighter is more efficient.
Other Cargo Aircrafts Available
- ATR 72F
- Antonov An-124 Ruslan
- Boeing 737-400 Freighter
- Boeing 737-800BCF
- Boeing 747-400F
- Boeing 747-8F
Contact
For a quote on a Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia charter in or out of Naples, head to our contact page. For the vetting work behind every trip, see our safety page. To browse cross-category options for the same trip, visit the aircraft directory.
The hourly rates provided are estimates based on 2026 market data and are for informational purposes only. These figures are subject to change and do not constitute a final offer. Final pricing is dynamic and depends on real-time factors including, but not limited to, specific itinerary requirements, aircraft positioning (“ferry” fees), fuel price volatility, and current market availability. These estimates exclude all applicable taxes, de-icing, landing and handling fees, special event fees, international surcharges, overnight crew expenses, and premium catering. Please contact Air Charter Advisors directly for a firm, all-inclusive quote tailored to your specific travel needs.