AviationNews – The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has renewed the ETOPS 120 certification for the ATR 72-600 regional turboprop for another two years. This critical approval reaffirms the aircraft’s reliability and allows operators to continue flying more direct routes, boosting regional connectivity.
ETOPS, or Extended-range Twin-engine Operational Performance Standards, dictates how far a twin-engine aircraft can safely operate from the nearest suitable diversion airport in case one engine fails. Standard operations require staying within 60 minutes, but ETOPS 120 doubles this to 120 minutes. ATR first achieved this certification for its ATR 72-600 (type certified as ATR 72-212A with PW127F engines) back in 2000.
Maintaining ETOPS 120 requires ATR to continually demonstrate exceptional reliability across key aircraft systems, including engines, fuel systems, fire detection, and navigation. For ATR operators, particularly those serving remote communities or flying over water, mountains, or sparsely populated areas, this certification is crucial. It permits more direct flight paths, resulting in shorter travel times, reduced fuel burn, and greater network planning flexibility.
While a specific quote on this renewal wasn’t provided, aviation authorities often emphasize the stringent requirements. An EASA official might typically state, “ETOPS certification is granted only when manufacturers demonstrate the highest levels of system reliability, ensuring passenger safety even on extended routes far from diversion airports.”
The renewal underscores ATR’s commitment to maintaining high safety and performance standards for its widely used regional aircraft. It ensures that airlines relying on the ATR 72-600 can continue offering efficient and dependable services to communities that depend on air links.
In summary, EASA’s two-year renewal of the ETOPS 120 certification for the ATR 72-600 validates the aircraft’s proven reliability. This allows operators to maintain operational flexibility and efficiency, supporting vital regional air travel networks globally.
