EMB ERJ 145 ER/LR
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event Smoke / Fire / Fumes / Odor
Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; General Declared Emergency; General Evacuated
Aircraft
Climbing thorough FL190 we noticed a faint electrical smoke odor. Based on a previous maintenance issue we decided to return to [our departure airport]. [We] declared an emergency with ATC and started a turn back. During the turn the odor escalated to visible smoke; [and we] quickly changed the destination to the nearest suitable airport. [The] Flight Attendant was informed of the situation and of a possible evacuation once on the ground. Landed gently; made first available turn off of the runway and stopped. Smoke was still present and the order was given to evacuate the airplane; within a few minutes CFR was present. No injuries were observed [and] passengers were escorted off of the grass to a building onsite. Memory items were quickly accomplished. Appropriate checklists were accomplished as well as directives from the AOM and FM were heeded.
Upon investigation after the event by Maintenance; I believe [the event] was due to a recirculation fan overload.
An EMB-145 flight crew declared an emergency; diverted to the nearest suitable airport; and evacuated all SOBs after experiencing smoke and electrical odors in the cockpit and cabin.