The ATR 72 is a highly successful twin-engine turboprop regional airliner developed through a French-Italian partnership, designed for short-haul routes and versatile operations across varied environments. Its popularity stems from a stellar blend of fuel efficiency, operational flexibility, and lower emissions compared to regional jets.
ATR 72
Key Advantages and Operating Highlights
The ATR 72-600 is the most widely adopted version, capable of seating up to 78 passengers, and is celebrated for its unrivalled fuel efficiency and low CO₂ emissions—offering operators substantial cost savings and environmental benefits .
Boasting the lowest seat-mile cost in regional aviation, its design allows operators to save around $2 million annually per aircraft, with operating costs 20% lower per seat and 45% lower per trip compared to similar regional jets .
Its performance capabilities—optimized speed, lightweight structure, and short-haul efficiency—make it ideally suited for connecting smaller, remote destinations .
Size, Specs & Performance Overview
Here’s a quick glance at key specifications for the ATR 72-600:
Specification ATR 72-600
Length 27.17 m (≈ 89 ft 2 in)
Wingspan 27.05 m (≈ 88 ft 9 in)
Max Takeoff Weight 23,000 kg (≈ 50,705 lb)
Payload Capacity ~7,400 kg (≈ 16,313 lb)
Range (Max Pax) ~740 NM (≈ 1,370 km)
Takeoff Distance ~1,315 m / 4,314 ft (MTOW, SL, ISA)
Landing Distance ~915 m / 3,002 ft (MLW, SL)
Evolving Through Variants
ATR 72-200/-210/-500/-600: Over the years, enhanced engine power, seating capacity, and avionics have been introduced across successive variants .
The -600 series features upgraded PW127M engines (later versions include PW127XT with 3% fuel savings and 20% lower maintenance costs), five LCD screens, and new avionics including RNP capabilities and synthetic vision .
ATR 72-600F: A dedicated freighter variant introduced in 2020, optimized for cargo with large doors, reinforced floors, and a capacity for standard containers or bulk loading—catering to the booming regional cargo market .
Design & Technology
High-wing, lightweight structure (including ~19% composite materials such as carbon and Nomex) ensures efficiency and payload flexibility .
The state-of-the-art glass cockpit in modern variants features integrated avionics, navigation, and surveillance systems—enhancing safety and enabling advanced functions like CAT III approaches and RNP operations .
Market Reach & Milestones
Milestone Delivery: ATR reached its 1,000th ATR 72 delivery in July (to IndiGo), showcasing its enduring popularity and strong global demand .
Global Operators: The aircraft is widely used by over 200 carriers and government services worldwide—including Alliance Air in India, Afrijet in Africa, and Air Moana in French Polynesia—serving in passenger, cargo, VIP, and maritime roles .
Why It Matters
1. Efficiency leader: The ATR 72 remains a cost-efficient turboprop, offering unmatched economics for short-haul routes.
2. Versatile deployment: From challenging airfields to remote regions, its adaptability supports various airline and government needs.
3. Sustainable edge: Lower emissions and fuel consumption make it a forward-looking choice in a climate-conscious aviation world.
4. Innovative cockpit & payload flexibility: The modern cockpit and quick-change cargo options enhance both safety and operational flexibility.
Conclusion
The ATR 72 is more than just a regional aircraft—it’s a strategic asset prized for its operational efficiency, adaptability, and technological evolution. From passenger transport to cargo logistics, its continuing innovations make it a cornerstone of modern turboprop aviation.
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