family concept

ATR combines the strengths of two leading European aerospace industry companies, EADS and Alenia Aeronautica, with each bringing their respective design, development and production expertise into the company.

Continuous adaptation to the changing needs coming from evolving markets is a key ATR product philosophy.

The ATR family is known for its versatility and capability to operate even in difficult environment and from short airfields.

ATR is currently the most widespread regional aircraft family with more aircraft in service with more operators than any competitor.

Historical background and current status

Low weights, along with an advanced aerodynamic design and the choice of state-of-the-art, highly efficient Pratt & Whitney of Canada PW100 series engines keep fuel burn to a minimum. Low fuel consumption associated with high tank capacity ensures excellent range characteristics and the capability to fly multiple sectors without refueling.

The excellent landing and take-off performance enable ATR aircraft to use the shorter runways set aside for commuter operations at many airport hubs. ATR aircraft thus:

reduce air traffic congestion
decrease airline fuel consumption
minimise environmental impacts

The cornerstone of the latest generation ATR aircraft family is the 50-seater ATR 42-500, which entered into service in 1995, followed by the stretched 70-seater ATR 72-500 version in 1997.

The ATR 42 and ATR 72 have a high degree of commonality. They share the same fuselage cross-section, use the same basic systems, and are outfitted with a common cockpit that allows cross-crew qualification.

Following a strong market requirement, ATR 72-600 will soon introduce a totaly new way of travelling. This new generation of aircraft will be offered with increased payload, making the aircraft even more attractive, also in terms of operational range.