EMB ERJ 145 ER/LR
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Multiengine
Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event Smoke / Fire / Fumes / Odor
Air Traffic Control Provided Assistance; Flight Crew Overcame Equipment Problem; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; General Maintenance Action
Aircraft
On a STAR into ZZZ; both pilots noticed strong burning smell in the cockpit. First indication of smell went away and returned approximately a minute later and much stronger. The smell was distinct. No abnormal indications or messages were presented on the MFD or EICAS. Pilots conferred with Flight Attendant who did not smell any fumes or see smoke. Fearing the smell could worsen and result in large volumes of smoke; both pilots donned oxygen masks and smoke goggles and [requested priority handling] with New York Center. Considered a diversion to ZZZ1 or ZZZ2 but weather at both were not good and decided ZZZ was the best suitable airport with the information we had. We felt the safest course of action was to don masks and goggles and [advise ATC]. We were certain the odor was a burning smell and were considered of the possibility of smoke. We were also concerned the smell could cause us to become ill. We felt it was safest to have 100% oxygen.The source of the odor may be difficult to trace. We had no abnormal indications. No EICAS messages or warnings. The airplane was operation normal with the packs and bleeds set in a normal configuration as well.
EMB-145 Captain reported that a strong burning odor during flight caused a precautionary landing.