GECAS Orders 5 ATR 72-600s

GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS) has signed a contract with ATR for the purchase of 5 firm and 5 optional ATR 72-600 aircraft.

The deal is valued at US$241 million and deliveries will commence in 2015.

The new turboprops will benefit from the latest technological developments that distinguish the -600s: a new avionics suite with latest generation glass cockpit, redesigned and stylish cabin interiors, and enhanced engine performance and payload.

“The ATR 72-600 is a key piece of GECAS's regional aircraft portfolio of modern, fuel-efficient aircraft,” said Norman Liu, President and CEO of GECAS. “We have seen significant market interest in the ATRs and that is why we have added more of them to our portfolio. These aircraft will support the strong growth in regional air transport we anticipate over the coming years.”

Since 2010, lessors have purchased over 100 new ATR-600 aircraft, contributing to ATR's nearly 75% of total orders of regional aircraft up to 90 seats.

ATR 72-600

Passenger capacity: 68 to 74 seats
Engines: Pratt & Whitney 127M
Maximum take-off power: 2,750 horsepower per engine
Maximum take-off weight: 23,000 kg
Maximum load: 7,500 kg
Maximum flight range when fully loaded: 900 nautical miles (1,665 km)