Indonesia’s WINGS AIR, -a regional subsidiary of the national largest private carrier LION AIR- and ATR today celebrated the introduction of the first three ATR 72-500s to the fast growing Indonesian market. The delivery of these aircraft follows the signature, last year, of a contract for the purchase of 15 ATR 72-500s, plus options for 15 ATR 72-600s, valued at some US $ 600 million, options included.

The introduction of these first three ATR 72-500s was celebrated with a ceremony that took place in Manado, a growing tourism and diving destination, and was officially launched by His Excellency Freddy Numberi, Indonesian Minister of Transportation and SH Sarundajang, Governor of North Sulawesi.

The aircraft, configured with 72 seats and powered with Pratt & Whitney 127M engines, are equipped with a cabin featuring the most modern standards of passenger comfort, as well as with the most updated navigation technologies.

With the introduction of its new fleet of ATR 72-500s, WINGS AIR will consolidate its leading position in the domestic market in Indonesia, develop feeder routes to the main hubs and expand its network to remote areas of the country which where not benefiting from regular airline connectivity in the past.

The ATR 72-500s operated by WINGS AIR will also replace routes currently operated with MD 80 and increase frequencies on existing routes operated with Lion Air B-737-900ER. The remaining 12 firm ATR 72-500s will be progressively introduced in 2010 and 2011.

Source: ATR