ATR enjoys regional orders boost

Air Corsica has ordered five ATR 72-600 aircraft as it continues its ATR fleet upgrade. A long-term ATR partner Air Corsica will become the launch customer for Pratt & Whitney Canada’s new engine, the PW127XT.

Deliveries will begin by November 2022.

Air Corsica passengers will benefit from a more spacious cabin with larger overhead compartments, and the cutting-edge navigation technology available on board will further improve the regularity and reliability of the services they offer.

Luc Bereni, Air Corsica’s Chairman of the Board, stated: “Since our first flight in Spring 1990, the history of our airline is closely linked to ATR’s, with whom we continue to propel ourselves into the future with this order of five ATR 72-600 equipped with PW127XT engines. These new aircraft, that are even more efficient, will enable us to offer several innovations in terms of customer experience, whilst fulfilling our model of air travel in Corsica which has led to our success: frequency, regularity and reliability.”

Elsewhere, Romanian national flag carrier TAROM has TAROM has signed a firm order to acquire three ATR 72-600 as part of a continuation of its fleet modernisation which began in 2019. The deal will also see the airline upscale its ATR 42-500 fleet to the larger 72-seat ATR 72-600 aircraft, offering more capacity and welcoming passengers into the comfort of the latest generation ATR Armonia cabin.

TAROM Chief Executive Officer Catalin Prunariu said: “Having been an ATR pilot, I have witnessed first-hand, the importance of the connectivity that they provide. They are an essential link to communities all over Romania. As a CEO, I also see the value of their efficiency and flexibility. When we began to modernise our fleet, it made perfect sense to choose the ATR and as this mission continues while the world looks to recover from the challenging backdrop of the global pandemic, airlines need to have the most efficient aircraft possible. We are sure that ATR is the right choice; now and for the future.”

Binter Canarias has completed its ATR fleet modernisation, as it replace its remaining ATR 72-500 aircraft with the latest-generation ATR 72-600 aircraft.

The airline has signed a firm order for four ATR 72-600 aircraft, with an option for a further one – a deal which will see Binter operate 23 ATR 72-600 aircraft.

Rodolfo Nunez President of Binter Canarias said: “Ever since its first delivery ATR aircraft had an immediate and enduring impact on our operations. The ATR 72-600 has become our flagship aircraft and with 23 of them in our fleet, upon the completion of these deliveries, it provides the backbone of air connectivity throughout the Canary Islands. This deal for five aircraft represents a significant investment but it will ensure that the many benefits, such as supporting local businesses and facilitating easier transport for locals and tourists alike, will continue.”

ATR foresees the need to replace around 200 70-seat regional aircraft in the next five years.