ATR 72
The ATR 72 is a twin-engine turboprop, short-haul regional airliner developed and manufactured by ATR (Avions de Transport Régional), a Franco-Italian aircraft manufacturer. It is an evolution of the ATR 42, featuring a stretched fuselage, increased seating capacity, and more powerful engines.
Design and Development:
The ATR 72 was designed to bridge the gap between smaller regional aircraft and larger jetliners. Its key features include:
- High-wing configuration: Provides good short-field performance and allows for unobstructed views for passengers.
- Turboprop engines: Offers fuel efficiency suitable for shorter routes compared to jet engines.
- Pressurized cabin: Enables operation at higher altitudes for smoother flights above weather.
- Advanced avionics: Equipped with modern flight management systems and navigation aids.
Operational History:
The ATR 72 has become a widely used regional airliner, operating on routes across the globe. It is popular with airlines due to its fuel efficiency, versatility, and ability to serve smaller airports. The aircraft is used for passenger transport, cargo operations, and other specialized roles. Several variants have been developed, offering varying seating configurations, range capabilities, and engine performance.
Variants:
Some notable variants of the ATR 72 include:
- ATR 72-200/100: The original production versions.
- ATR 72-500: Features more powerful engines and improved performance.
- ATR 72-600 (ATR 72-212A): The latest generation, with enhanced avionics, modernized cabin, and improved performance characteristics.
Safety:
The ATR 72 has a generally good safety record, although there have been accidents and incidents throughout its operational history. Continuous improvements in aircraft design, maintenance procedures, and pilot training have aimed to further enhance its safety performance.