ATR 42

The ATR 42 is a twin-engine turboprop regional airliner designed and manufactured by ATR (Aerei da Trasporto Regionale / Avions de transport régional), a joint venture between Airbus and Leonardo. Since its first flight in 1984, the ATR 42 has become a trusted workhorse for regional airlines, offering reliability, fuel efficiency, and the ability to operate in challenging environments.

In this article, we’ll explore the history, design, performance, and market relevance of the ATR 42 — making it a valuable resource for aviation enthusiasts, operators, and businesses looking for dependable regional aircraft.

History of the ATR 42

The ATR 42 was developed in the early 1980s to meet growing demand for short-haul regional aircraft. It was designed as a 42-seat turboprop (hence the name) to provide airlines with:

Lower operating costs compared to jets

Short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities for regional airports

High efficiency on routes under 500 nautical miles

The first ATR 42 entered service in 1985 with Air Littoral, marking the beginning of ATR’s dominance in the regional turboprop sector.

Key Variants of the ATR 42

Over the years, ATR has released several versions of the ATR 42 to meet evolving market needs:

ATR 42-300 – The original production version introduced in 1984

ATR 42-320 – Equipped with more powerful engines for hot and high performance

ATR 42-500 – Launched in the 1990s with improved comfort, reduced noise, and better avionics

ATR 42-600 – The most advanced model featuring modern avionics, enhanced fuel efficiency, and improved passenger comfort

Technical Specifications (ATR 42-600)

Capacity: 40–50 passengers

Engines: 2 × Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127M turboprops

Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): ~18,600 kg (41,005 lb)

Range: up to 800 nautical miles (1,482 km)

Cruise Speed: 300 knots (556 km/h)

Takeoff Distance: ~1,100 m (3,610 ft)

The ATR 42-600 is certified for operations in challenging airports, including short runways, unpaved strips, and high-altitude fields.

Operational Advantages of the ATR 42

Airlines continue to choose the ATR 42 for its operational flexibility and cost savings. Key benefits include:

Fuel Efficiency: Up to 40% less fuel consumption than regional jets on short routes.

Lower CO₂ Emissions: An environmentally friendlier option for regional travel.

Airport Flexibility: Capable of operating from smaller airports, connecting remote communities.

Passenger Comfort: Equipped with modern interiors and noise-reduction technology.

ATR 42 in Today’s Aviation Market

The ATR 42 remains highly relevant in 2025, particularly for:

Regional Airlines – Serving short-haul routes where jets are uneconomical

Cargo Operations – ATR 42 freighter versions are widely used for express deliveries

Government & Humanitarian Missions – Its rugged design makes it suitable for relief operations in remote areas

According to ATR, the ATR 42-600 continues to see steady demand from operators who need reliable and cost-effective connectivity in regions such as Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America.

Future of the ATR 42

With the aviation industry focused on sustainability, ATR is actively developing eco-friendly upgrades. Innovations like hybrid-electric propulsion, biofuel compatibility, and advanced avionics are expected to keep the ATR 42 competitive for decades to come.

Conclusion

The ATR 42 has established itself as a cornerstone of regional aviation. With its proven track record, cost efficiency, and ability to serve underserved routes, it continues to be a smart choice for airlines and operators worldwide.

Whether for passenger transport, cargo missions, or special operations, the ATR 42 remains one of the most versatile and dependable regional aircraft in the skies today.

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