ATR 42-300 Specifications & Booking
Overview of the ATR 42-300
The ATR 42-300 is a regional turboprop airliner manufactured by Avions de Transport Régional (ATR). It is a commercial aircraft designed for short-haul flights, with a primary purpose of transporting passengers and cargo. The first flight of the ATR 42-300 took place on June 16, 1984, and it received certification in October 1985.
Technical Specifications
The ATR 42-300 has the following technical specifications:
- Dimensions:
- Length: 27.98 meters (92 feet)
- Wingspan: 23.78 meters (78 feet 4 inches)
- Height: 8.21 meters (26 feet 11 inches)
- Weight:
- Empty weight: 15,300 kilograms (33,710 pounds)
- Maximum takeoff weight: 24,500 kilograms (54,000 pounds)
- Engines:
- Type: Pratt & Whitney Canada PW126 turboprop
- Fuel efficiency: 3.5 liters per passenger-kilometer (0.84 gallons per passenger-mile)
- Performance:
- Maximum speed: 260 kilometers per hour (162 miles per hour)
- Range: 1,000 kilometers (621 miles)
- Cruising altitude: 7,500 meters (24,600 feet)
- Capacity:
- Passengers: 46
- Cargo: 4,000 kilograms (8,800 pounds)
- Crew: Two pilots and one flight attendant
Design and Features
The ATR 42-300 features a unique design that includes:
- Aerodynamic shape with a high-aspect-ratio wing and raked wingtips
- Fiber-reinforced composite materials used in the fuselage and wings
- Advanced avionics and glass cockpit for improved pilot visibility and automation
- Fully pressurized cabin with climate control and noise reduction features
History and Development
The ATR 42-300 has a rich history of development, including:
- First flight on June 16, 1984
- Certification in October 1985
- Entry into service with Austrian Airlines in September 1986
- Significant upgrades and variants, including the ATR 42-500 series introduced in 1997
Operational Use
The ATR 42-300 is used by various airlines and organizations for a range of purposes, including:
- Airlines such as Austrian Airlines, Finnair, and Swiss International Air Lines operate the ATR 42-300 for short-haul flights
- Popular routes include European city pairs and regional connections within North America
- The ATR 42-300 has been used in military operations, search and rescue missions, and cargo transport
Interesting Facts
Here are some interesting facts about the ATR 42-300:
- The ATR 42-300 was one of the first commercial turboprop aircraft to use composite materials in its construction
- The aircraft has a unique "whisper-jet" design, which reduces noise levels during takeoff and landing
- There have been several record-breaking flights using the ATR 42-300, including a non-stop flight from Europe to North America
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the ATR 42-300 unique?
The ATR 42-300 is unique due to its innovative design, which includes the use of composite materials and a high-aspect-ratio wing. Its advanced avionics and glass cockpit also set it apart from other aircraft.
How much does the ATR 42-300 cost?
The estimated cost range for the ATR 42-300 is between $10 million to $20 million, depending on the configuration and customization of the aircraft.
What is the range of the ATR 42-300?
The ATR 42-300 has a maximum range of approximately 1,000 kilometers (621 miles), making it suitable for short-haul flights and regional connections.
Which airlines operate the ATR 42-300?
Airlines such as Austrian Airlines, Finnair, and Swiss International Air Lines operate the ATR 42-300 for short-haul flights. Other organizations, including cargo carriers and government agencies, also use the aircraft for various purposes.
Is the ATR 42-300 still in production?
No, the ATR 42-300 is no longer in production. The aircraft was introduced in the late 1980s and has since been replaced by newer models such as the ATR 72 and ATR 82.
