FedEx Orders 10 ATR 72-600F for Fleet Upgrade
FedEx has taken a significant step in modernizing its cargo fleet by placing a new order for 10 ATR 72-600F regional freighter aircraft. This order adds to a previous contract signed in November 2017 between ATR and the global express delivery firm, which originally saw FedEx committing to purchase 30 ATR 72-600 aircraft with an additional 20 options. The new order is part of ATR’s undisclosed orders from 2024 and was confirmed on March 21, 2025, as the company announced plans for deliveries to begin in 2027 and continue through to 2029. This move reinforces FedEx’s long-standing trust in ATR’s performance and the versatility of its aircraft, particularly the freighter variant designed specifically for efficient cargo operations.
The ATR 72-600F has been engineered to offer significant advantages over traditional passenger-to-freighter conversions. With a large cargo door, an optimized cargo loading system, and a wide fuselage cross section, the aircraft is capable of accommodating industry-standard Unit Load Devices. This capability allows the ATR 72-600F to interline seamlessly with larger freighters, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of cargo operations. The design of the aircraft features a payload capacity of 9.2 tonnes, making it a key asset in FedEx’s efforts to replace its legacy ATR models and streamline its network capabilities across the globe.
Alexis Vidal, Senior Vice-President Commercial of ATR, commented on the new order by stating that FedEx’s decision to order additional ATR 72-600F aircraft underscores the company’s confidence in the performance and versatility of this freighter variant. He highlighted that the aircraft is an essential component of the ATR family and offers benefits such as enhanced reliability, increased availability, and long-term planning advantages that are not typically achievable with standard conversions. These attributes, Vidal explained, position the ATR 72-600F as a game-changer for FedEx, enabling the carrier to optimize its operations in a highly competitive global air cargo market.
FedEx’s new order comes at a time when the express delivery industry is continually evolving, and the need for efficient, reliable, and environmentally friendly cargo aircraft is more important than ever. The ATR 72-600F’s hybrid capabilities, advanced design features, and adaptability for various operational environments—ranging from the warm climates of Miami, Florida, to the cold conditions of Anchorage, Alaska—make it particularly well-suited for FedEx’s diverse logistical requirements. The aircraft’s purpose-built design not only ensures superior performance but also supports the company’s goal of reducing operational costs while enhancing network efficiency.
The introduction of these 10 new ATR 72-600F freighters will further cement FedEx’s position as a leader in the global air cargo industry. As the company continues to modernize its fleet, the enhanced capabilities provided by the ATR 72-600F will be pivotal in meeting the demands of rapid delivery and maintaining competitive service levels. With deliveries set to commence in 2027, FedEx is poised to benefit from improved operational efficiency and increased cargo capacity, ensuring that its network remains agile and capable of adapting to the evolving needs of international commerce.
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