Indonesia’s carrier WINGS AIR, -a subsidiary of Indonesian largest private carrier LION AIR-, and ATR today announced the signature of a contract for the purchase of 15 ATR 72-500s, with options for 15 ATR 72-600s series aircraft.

This order, which was initially announced in November 2008 as an MoU for 10 firm ATR 72-500s plus options for 10 additional ATR72-500/600s, has now been increased by 5 firm and 5 option aircraft. The total amount of the agreement, including options, is valued at some US $ 600 million.

These 72-seat aircraft will enable WINGS AIR to become the launch customer for the ATR 72-500s in Indonesia and the largest ATR operator in the country. The aircraft, powered by PW 127M engines, are to be delivered between 2009 and 2011.

The entry into service of these aircraft will also enable WINGS AIR to consolidate its leading position in the rapidly developing domestic market in Indonesia, and to develop feeder routes to serve its mainline jet network. In addition, the new ATR fleet operated by WINGS AIR will also provide new services to local communities that were often not benefitting from regular airline service in the past. The ATR 72-500s operated by WINGS AIR will also replace routes currently operated with MD 80 and B-737-300/400 and increase frequencies on existing routes operated with B-737-900ER.