ATR Delivers First ATR 72-600 to Maldivian
Toulouse, 23 December 2022 – Leading regional aircraft manufacturer ATR and Maldives’ national airline Maldivian, today announce the delivery of the carrier’s first ATR 72-600, as part of a firm deal for two ATR 72-600 and one ATR 42-600. The latest generation turboprops will replace the airline ageing models, contributing to offer best-in-class fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, operating costs, and passenger comfort.
Equipped with brand new PW127XT engine, soon to be 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel compatible, the brand new aircraft will contribute to offer local communities and tourists with further affordable and sustainable connectivity, as the PW127XT offers 20% lower maintenance costs and a 3% reduction in fuel consumption compared to ATR’s previous generation engine. Having a mixed fleet of ATR 72 and 42 aircraft will also provide Maldivian with maximum flexibility and the capacity to constantly adjust to passenger demand.
Mohamed Mihad, Managing Director of Maldivian, stated: “Operating in an environment like the Maldives is a matter of offering quick access to essential services to local communities, contributing to the archipelago’s economic development, boosting tourism – and all of this with sustainability at heart. When flying onboard our latest generation ATR turboprops, our passengers will benefit from the best of both worlds: the convenience and comfort of air travel and the guarantee of the lowest emission regional aircraft on the market.”
ATR Chief Executive Officer Nathalie Tarnaud Laude added: “ATR aircraft have a proven track record in terms of connecting islands affordably and sustainably in many regions of the world. We will be supporting Maldivian in their sustainable development throughout the years with the latest technology to further enhance their operations whilst fulfilling their sustainability pledges. We are as much committed as Maldivian in contributing to the industry’s net-zero carbon emissions 2050 target.”
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About Maldivian
Maldivian is the national airline of the Maldives. It was established in 2000 and currently operates international flights in addition to inter-island services. Maldivian operates out of Its main base at Velana International Airport (MLE). Its current fleet consists of one A320, two Dash-8 Q200s, eight Dash-8 Q300s and 11 DHC-6-300 Twin Otter aircraft.
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About ATR
ATR is the world number one regional aircraft manufacturer with its ATR 42 and 72, the best-selling aircraft in the below 90-seat market segment. The unifying vision of the company is to accelerate sustainable connections for people, communities and businesses, no matter how remote. Flown by some 200 airlines in over 100 countries, ATR aircraft opened 160 new routes in 2023, facilitating the development of territories and enabling access to crucial services like healthcare and education. Thanks to ATR’s focus on continuous innovation and the intrinsic efficiency of the turboprop technology, ATR aircraft are the most advanced, versatile, cost-effective and lowest-emission regional aircraft on the market, emitting 45% less CO2 than similar-size regional jets. In January 2022, we flew the first ever commercial aircraft using 100% SAF in both engines. ATR is a joint-venture between Airbus and Leonardo.