Air Algerie, one of the biggest North African operators, today signed a purchase agreement for 3 new ATR 72-600s.  The contract value is $74.1 million at current list price. The entry into service is expected from end 2014 through 2015. When delivered, the 68 seat new-comers will join an existing ATR fleet at the airline that currently includes 12 ATR 72-500s flying primarily on domestic and short regional routes. The new order will take Air Algerie’s ATR fleet to 15 ATR 72s consolidating its position of the largest ATR operator on the African continent.

The contract was firmed up at a special ceremony in Algiers by Mohamed Salah Boultif, Chief Executive Officer of Air Algerie, and witnessed by Dr. Amar Ghoul, Algeria’s Minister of Transport and other prominent government officials.

The arrival of the new aircraft is part of the airline’s recent successful fleet renewal initiatives providing the extra capacity to its existing regional and international air network on the way to a major expansion.

Commenting on the deal Mr Boultif said: “We plan to operate the ATR 72-600 to its maximum potential – an aircraft that offers high level of operational efficiency and product competitiveness, while allowing Air Algerie to develop new business opportunities. In addition to improving profitability with advanced aircraft, we always aim to deliver unparalleled services to customers with the latest cabin and steady expansion of our route network.”

“Air Algerie is well known as one of the most reliable airlines in the region providing its passengers with an excellent flight experience.” said Filippo Bagnato, Chief Executive Officer of ATR. “We are honored to see a leading North African airline start a new chapter with our latest series airplanes. These aircraft offer high economic efficiency, optimum performance and exceptional passenger comfort. This highlights a long-lasting and flourishing partnership between Air Algerie and ATR.”

The technologically advanced ATR 72-600 is one of the most efficient regional aircraft in operation today in terms of fuel burn and operating costs per passenger. Air Algerie’s latest order is further evidence of the demand from airlines worldwide that face important challenges for fleet expansion and modernization. ATR’s -600 has a solid backlog with more than 200 aircraft with almost 35 operators around the world.