Source: ATR
ATR, the world’s leading regional aircraft manufacturer, today announced the delivery of its 1,700th aircraft since the inception of the programme to longstanding customer Air Corsica. The delivery of this ATR 72-600 to the French airline completes the full transition of its fleet of ATR -500 series to the latest generation of turboprop aircraft, demonstrating its commitment to operational excellence, regional connectivity, and sustainability. It also underscores the robustness and enduring success of the ATR programme, solidifying its position as a cornerstone in the regional aviation landscape.
Air Corsica was the first operator to take delivery of an ATR 72-600 equipped with the new PW127XT engine in November 2022, which resulted in a 20% reduction in maintenance costs and at least a 3% reduction in fuel consumption compared with the PW127M. It generates a CO2 emission saving of 45% compared with a similar-sized regional jet. With this delivery, the airline now operates seven ATR 72-600 aircraft, powered by the latest PW127XT engines, enhancing the reliability, comfort, operating costs, and CO2 emissions of its connecting flights from Corsica’s four airports, while providing a high-quality public service.
Marie-Hélène Casanova-Servas, President of Air Corsica’s Supervisory Board, said: “Completing our fleet renewal with the ATR 72-600 is a pivotal moment for Air Corsica, reflecting our commitment to providing the best possible service to our passengers and supporting the economic vitality of our island. This latest-generation aircraft enhances our operational efficiency and significantly reduces our environmental impact, aligning perfectly with our vision of a more sustainable future for air travel in Corsica. By investing in this modern fleet, we are ensuring that our island remains well-connected, fostering growth and opportunity for our communities.”
Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, ATR’s Chief Executive Officer, emphasised: “Delivering our 1,700th aircraft to Air Corsica marks a major milestone in our partnership and highlights our joint commitment to setting the standard for regional connectivity. This achievement also underscores ATR’s resilience, unmatched adequacy for the regional market, and capacity to provide highly-efficient, versatile aircraft that empower airlines to thrive in the dynamic regional aviation sector.”
The new aircraft will significantly improve regional connectivity. By linking communities, they will stimulate economic growth through increased business activity, tourism, and investment opportunities. As ATR looks towards the future, this milestone reinforces the company’s unwavering dedication to excellence and customer satisfaction, setting the stage for continued success and innovation in regional aviation.