Toulouse-based airframer ATR has delivered the first of three ATR aircraft to Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives.
The ATR 72-600 is the first of two -600 ordered by the airliner and in addition to an ATR42-600 which was also ordered.
The new aircraft are equipped with the latest PW127XT turboprop engines which ATR says is soon to be 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) compatible and offers a 3% lower fuel burn than the previous models.
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.”
The ATR72-600 (SN: 1655) left Toulouse on the 23rd of December 2022 making it one of the last aircraft deliveries of last year.
