ATR 42-600 to enter Chinese market

Chinese civil aviation authorities approve market leading turboprop type certificate

Zhuhai Airshow, 8 November 2022 – The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) has provided validation of the type certificate for leading turboprop manufacturer’s ATR 42-600.

This milestone opens the opportunity for ATR to re-enter the Chinese market with a firm order from an undisclosed customer for three aircraft. The most sustainable option for regional air travel, the ATR 42-600 is an ideal route opener for China, a vast country looking to grow essential connections profitably and responsibly.

Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, ATR’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “Receiving CAAC’s validation of the ATR 42-600 type certificate, along with a firm order, is a major achievement marking the re-introduction of ATR turboprops in China. The ATR 42-600 will undoubtedly prove to be a game-changer. ATR offers an eco-responsible alternative to jets while bringing comfort and convenience to passengers, and essential air services for communities and businesses to thrive.”

Regional aviation has a well-researched positive effect on a country’s economy and society: increasing regional flights by 10% generates a 5% rise in tourism, 6% rise in regional GDP and an 8% increase in foreign direct investment.

Fabrice Vautier, ATR’s Senior Vice-President Commercial added: “By 2035, we anticipate that over 150 airports will be built in China and turboprops will play a key role in creating a new network of short, thin routes, complementing the high-speed train offering. Our 20-year forecast predicts a need for 280 new turboprops in the region, and ATR is perfectly placed to meet this demand, whilst also contributing to decrease the reliance on public subsidies and delivering reduced CO2 emissions.”

ATR’s media briefing at Zhuhai: Wednesday 9 November at 14.00 (local time) in Zhuhai Airshow Press Centre Conference Room 220. Please contact ATR Media Relations team to attend at presse@atr-aircraft.com.

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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.