ATR reports upward trend from SE Asia market

There is a feeling of confidence at ATR’s exhibit at Paris Air Show, where the regional aircraft manufacturer ATR is reporting a ‘clear upward trend and solid market appeal’ for both models of its family of low-emission turboprops.

Indeed Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, ATR’s CEO, has already announced firm orders for 22 new aircraft at the show, plus two options. The orders so far comprise: six ATR 72-600s for Mandarin Airlines (Taiwan); two ATR 72-600s for Berjaya Air (Malaysia), with an all-business-class premium configuration; three ATR 72-600s from Azul (Brazil), plus options for two additional aircraft; eight ATR 72-600 orders from three undisclosed customers; and three ATR 42-600 orders from two undisclosed customers.

Laude commented: “These new aircraft orders demonstrate clear recovery signs from South-East Asia, traditionally one of ATR’s largest markets. We are confident that, in due time, the efficiency of our product offering, the lack of second-hand aircraft available and traffic exceeding pre-Covid levels in certain areas of the globe will induce a need for low-emission and versatile aircraft to support regional operators’ plans of both fleet replacement and growth.”

In addition, despite continued tensions on the supply chain, the aircraft manufacturer says it is on track to achieve its objective of more than 40 aircraft deliveries during 2023.

To continue to support its production ramp up and plans for the future, including the ongoing development of its Short Take-Off and Landing variant, ATR is looking to increase its workforce, targeting a 12% employee increase this year.

Laude added: “ATR’s purpose is to connect communities and businesses affordably and responsibly in the most complex operational environments. Already today, our aircraft emit 45% less CO2 than similar-size regional jets, and with our EVO concept, we want to cut emissions further down. Thanks also to government support, we are investing in technologies which will be used on our next generation aircraft, and we will get more results from the feasibility study by year-end.”