72

The ATR 72 is a twin-turboprop regional airliner renowned for its efficiency and role in short-haul air travel. The name “72” is derived from its typical seating capacity, which ranges from 72 to 78 passengers.

The aircraft is built by ATR (Avions de transport régional or Aerei da Trasporto Regionale), a Franco-Italian manufacturer specializing in regional turboprop aircraft. ATR is known for producing efficient aircraft with low seat-mile costs and excellent fuel efficiency, making them ideal for regional markets.

The ATR 72’s history is linked to its predecessor, the ATR 42. Developed in the mid-1980s as a stretched variant of the 42, the ATR 72 first flew in 1988 and entered revenue service in 1989 with Finnair. The model has undergone continuous modernization, with current production focusing on the advanced ATR 72-600 series, which features six-bladed propellers and improved economics.

The ATR 72 is widely used globally due to its versatility and ability to operate from shorter runways. It is a staple for regional airlines across Asia, Europe, North America, and the Southern Hemisphere. Common roles include passenger transport, cargo operations, and specialized military roles like maritime patrol. Major commercial operators include Wings Air (Lion Group), IndiGo Air, Azul Brazilian Airlines, and Air New Zealand, while cargo variants are utilized by companies like FedEx, DHL, and UPS.