By TTA Blog
TTA’s Tour of the World of Aircraft
In this ongoing series, Thrust Tech Accessories (TTA) shines a light on the many different aircraft types presently in service around the world. Join us as we explore the roles they play in the myriad industries they serve and the challenges they sometimes see in performing their important duties day-by-day, year-after-year, all across the globe.
We also wish to underscore the key role that MROs like TTA play behind-the-scenes in providing overhaul, repair, overhaul, and modification of engines and airframe accessory components that keep such aircraft flying properly, safely – and long into the future.
Popularity & Performance Make ATR the World’s Top Regional Aircraft Manufacturer
This past summer, Simply Flying, the world’s largest aviation news website, posted an article reporting that one regional jet (Embraer E175) and one turboprop (ATR 72) made their list of top 10 aircraft operating around the world (“The Most Utilized Commercial Aircraft,” James Pearson, Aug. 4, 2023).
That the ATR 72 made this list, ranking alongside such heavy hitters as the A320ceo and the B737-800, is impressive indeed. But it also says something about the important role that regional aircraft have in the larger scheme, serving regional routes all around the world.
We further explored the key part that regional carriers play in connecting communities in TTA’s recent coverage of the inimitable EMJ airframe, another steadfast and widely known “workhorse of the skies.”
So now it’s time to take a close look at the ATR:
The ATR 72 is a twin-engine turboprop aircraft developed by Aerei da Trasporto Regionale (ATR), a joint venture between Airbus and Leonardo (formerly known as Finmeccanica). The ATR 72 is a larger version of the ATR 42 and is designed for regional and short-haul flights. It has a capacity to seat around 70 to 78 passengers, depending on the configuration.
As a result of their sheer popularity and performance, today the ATR is the world number one regional aircraft manufacturer with its ATR 42 and 72 aircraft the best-selling aircraft in its market segment. With its lighter structure, optimized speed, and an engine designed for short sectors, the ATR 72 is popularized primarily because it is one of the most fuel efficient regional aircraft in the world.
Development: The development of the ATR 72 was initiated in the early 1980s, following the success of the smaller ATR 42 aircraft. The ATR 72’s first flight took place on Oct. 27, 1988. It received its certification from the French and Italian aviation authorities in September 1989 and entered commercial service with Finnair in October 1989.
Upgrades and Variants: Over the years, the ATR 72 has undergone various upgrades and improvements. These include enhancements to its engines, avionics, and passenger cabin. Several variants have been introduced, such as the ATR 72-500 and ATR 72-600, with increased efficiency, range, and passenger comfort.
Market Success: The ATR 72 has found success in the regional airline market due to its fuel efficiency, lower operating costs, and ability to serve shorter runways. It is particularly well-suited for connecting smaller airports and communities, making it popular with regional airlines worldwide.
Global Operations: The ATR 72 is used by numerous airlines and operators across the globe, connecting cities and regions that are not efficiently served by larger jet aircraft. It is commonly employed for short-haul flights, island-hopping, and routes with lower passenger demand.
Continued Production: ATR continues to produce the ATR 72, with the ATR 72-600 being the latest version. The aircraft’s ongoing popularity and the demand for regional air travel have contributed to its sustained production.
We work tirelessly to find the best MRO solutions possible to help avoid unnecessary ground time…
“Whatever ATR airframe our customers operate, they can count on our expert MRO services and resources to keep their fleets in tip-top shape,” says Stanley Kowlessar, TTA Founder and President. “We have an eye toward cost-effectiveness and time-sensitivity, which we know are important to owners and operators. Every moment an aircraft is out of service costs our customers money, and we work tirelessly to find the best MRO solutions possible to help avoid unnecessary ground time.”
TTA’s capabilities include testing, repair service, overhaul service, and of course fast turnaround times. The company provides expert service on a wide variety of items for ATRs and multiple other airframes that are owned by private and regional aircraft operators generators, valves, and emergency batteries to hydraulic pumps, ignition exciters, starters, and more.
To find out more about TTA’s wide-ranging capabilities to support your fleet and to obtain competitive program bids, contact us via email at TTAsales@TrustTech.com or by calling 954-984-0450.
Also visit our blogpage to read multiple other stories presented by TTA, including:
- “How the Growth of the Fractional Aircraft Ownership Industry Benefits MROs”
- “HondaJet Throws Down the Gauntlet with Debut of Elite II”
- “Mighty H145 Plays an Important Role in Keeping the World Safe”
- “Greater U.S./Europe Collaboration and Partnership Lies Ahead to Meet the Aviation Growth”
ROYALTY FREE PHOTO CREDIT: https://unsplash.com/photos/flying-white-airplane-rPW5zeDi0EU
