Air New Zealand Takes Delivery of ATR 72-600; Orders Another

Air New Zealand, one of ATR's largest customers in terms of in-service and on-order aircraft, has taken delivery of its latest ATR 72-600.

The airline has also just ordered an additional ATR 72-600 aircraft.

Since 2011, Air New Zealand has purchased a total of 14 ATR 72-600s. Deliveries of the ATR '-600' aircraft will continue until 2017. Once delivered, Air New Zealand will have 25 ATR aircraft in its fleet, including 11 ATR 72-500s and 14 ATR 72-600s.

The introduction of this additional 68-seat ATR 72-600 aircraft marks yet another step in Air New Zealand's fleet modernization strategy. The new ATR aircraft will join airline's existing fleet of 6 other ATR 72-600s and 11 ATR 72-500s. The new aircraft will enter service in July across Air New Zealand's regional domestic network.

Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Christopher Luxon, said, “The addition of a new ATR aircraft to our fleet forms an essential component of our plan to revamp regional operations aimed at delivering sustainable air services and lower prices for customers. We believe the ATR product is the way forward for us. The aircraft are economical to operate, and provide our customers with a modern, bright and comfortable cabin space.”

With nearly 450 ATR aircraft sold and a backlog that exceeds 110, some 350 ATR aircraft are in operation across Asia Pacific.

ATR 72-600

Passenger capacity: 68-78 seats
Engines: Pratt & Whitney 127M
Maximum power at take-off: 2,750 horse power per engine
Maximum weight at take-off: 23,000 kg
Maximum load: 7,500 kg
Maximum range with full passenger load: 900 nautical miles (1,665 km)