European planemaker ATR has won an order for two ATR72-600s from New Zealand flag carrier Air New Zealand.
In addition to the firm orders, Air New Zealand has also taken out options for two further aircraft,
Air New Zealand utilises the ATR regional turboprop on its domestic routes the order brings the total number of ATRs in its fleet to 31.
The new aircraft will fitted with PW127XT engines which delivers an additional 3% fuel burn reduction compared to the previous engine version, enabling a 45% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to similar-size regional jets.
Air New Zealand’s General Manager of Fleet Strategy and Delivery, Baden Smith said: “Our ATR 72-600s are an integral part of Air New Zealand’s domestic network. Due to New Zealand’s short range, highly connected network, the ATR aircraft are perfect in keeping Kiwis connected across the 20 ports we fly between. With demand for air travel high, particularly in New Zealand, we’re thrilled to be welcoming two new ATR aircraft into our fleet from late 2024.”
Alexis Vidal, ATR’s SVP Commercial, added: “ATR’s relationship with Air New Zealand is invaluable. Over the years, we have grown, innovated and pushed the boundaries of regional air transport together. The reason is that we make the perfect match: to thrive in New Zealand, an aircraft needs to be versatile, efficient, and therefore low-emission. It comes as no surprise that Air New Zealand operates the fourth largest ATR fleet in the world. We are truly grateful for their renewed trust.”
The new aircraft will be delivered in the 2nd half of 2024 and the beginning of 2025.
