The turboprop aircraft manufacturer ATR and the Mexican carrier Aeromar today signed a contract for the purchase of 8 firm ATR -600 series aircraft (6 ATR 72-600s and 2 ATR 42-600s). The deal also includes options for 6 additional ATR 72-600s.

The ATR 42-600s will be configured with 48 seats and the ATR 72-600s will have a capacity of 72 passengers. With the introduction of these latest-generation turboprop aircraft, the airline will progressively replace and upgrade its current fleet, which today includes 9 ATR 42-500s, 4 ATR 42-300s and 2 ATR 72-600s. The aircraft will also enable Aeromar to add passenger capacity to boost a number of main routes and create new connections to its regional network across the country. The first of the new ATR -600s will arrive in December 2016. Aeromar is a long-standing partner of ATR, having been operating ATR aircraft for almost 30 years, since it was founded in 1987.

The cabin of the ATR -600s, designed by the Italian firm Giugiaro, features the most modern standards of passenger comfort, including thinner and lighter seats, LED lighting and new overhead bins with 30% additional storage capacity compared with previous ATR versions.

In terms of eco-efficiency, the ATR 72-600 has the lowest environmental footprint in its category, consuming 40% less fuel than similar sized regional jets, which means a saving of up to 5,000 tons of CO₂ per year. The ATR -600s are equipped with Pratt & Whitney Canada PW 127M engines

The new avionics of the ATR -600s, developed by Thales, use the same technologies as in the A380 aircraft, substantially decreasing pilot workload and increasing flight path and approach precision thanks to satellite navigation.

Commenting on the deal, Andrés Fabre, Chief Executive Officer of Aeromar, stated: “The ATR aircraft represent the most cost-effective solution for our short-haul network. With a renewed fleet based upon the ATR -600s, our passengers will experience the most modern standards of comfort and service. We are very pleased to further develop this longstanding and highly successful partnership with ATR. We both share a commitment to safety and the passion for technology with an environmental-friendly conscience”.

Tom Anderson, Senior Vice President Commercial and Customer Support of ATR, declared: “For almost 30 years Aeromar has been providing an essential service across Mexico, linking communities and contributing to the development of regional economies. We are proud that the progressive introduction of the new and eco-efficient ATR -600s will enable the airline to continue delivering its passengers the highest quality of service on each and every flight.”

ATR press release