Embraer signs $2.2 bln loan deal with Chinese bank

SAO PAULO Dec 11 (Reuters) - Brazil's Embraer (EMBR3.SA) (ERJ.N), the world's third largest aircraft maker, has signed an agreement with CDB Leasing Co worth $2.2 billion over three years to help finance the sale of regional jets in Asia.

CDB Leasing, a unit of state-owned China Development Bank (CDB), will provide funding to airlines in China and Asia and may also buy jets directly from Embraer, the Brazilian company said on Thursday.

"The deal is designed to enhance financing opportunities for acquiring Embraer aircraft in the People's Republic of China and abroad, focusing on developing regional aviation in China," Embraer said in a statement.

CDB Leasing has helped fund the purchase of more than 40 aircraft, Embraer said. (Reporting by Elzio Barreto; Editing by Dan Lalor)