ATR 72 (turboprops)
The ATR 72 is a highly successful twin-turboprop regional airliner, directly developed from the smaller ATR 42 by the Franco-Italian manufacturer ATR. Distinguished by its stretched fuselage (approximately 4.5 meters longer than the ATR 42), the “72” in its name signifies its typical seating capacity, which ranges from 72 to 78 passengers.2 Since its maiden flight in 1988 and entry into service with Finnair in 1989, the ATR 72 has become a workhorse for regional airlines worldwide, celebrated for its fuel efficiency, low operating costs, and ability to serve airports with shorter runways or limited infrastructure. Its design includes a high-wing configuration, which allows for better ground clearance and facilitates cargo loading, and modern variants like the -600 series incorporate advanced glass cockpits and more powerful Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127M engines, further solidifying its position as a go-to aircraft for regional connectivity, cargo operations, and even specialized maritime patrol roles.
