ATR 72-200 Specifications & Booking
Overview of the ATR 72-200
The ATR 72-200 is a twin-engine turboprop aircraft manufactured by ATR (Aviation Tractor, Rue), a joint venture between Airbus and Leonardo. It is primarily used for commercial passenger transport, with some military and cargo operations. The aircraft made its first flight on February 27, 1988, and received certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in 1992.
Technical Specifications
The ATR 72-200 has the following technical specifications:
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Dimensions:
- Length: 27.74 meters (91 feet)
- Wingspan: 23.84 meters (78 feet 5 inches)
- Height: 8.38 meters (27 feet 6 inches)
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Weight:
- Empty weight: 16,100 kg (35,500 lbs)
- Maximum takeoff weight: 23,000 kg (50,700 lbs)
- Engines:
- Type: Pratt & Whitney Canada PW124B turboprop
- Thrust: 2 x 2,600 kW (3,500 HP)
- Fuel efficiency: 0.35 kg/mn (7.1 lbs/gal)
- Performance:
- Maximum speed: Mach 0.27 (198 km/h or 123 mph) at cruising altitude
- Range: 2,200 km (1,367 miles)
- Cruising altitude: 9,100 meters (29,900 feet)
- Capacity:
- Passengers: 68-72
- Cargo: 3,000 kg (6,600 lbs)
- Crew: 2 pilots and 1 flight attendant
Design and Features
The ATR 72-200 features a unique design with a high-mounted wing and a rear-mounted engine. The aircraft has excellent short-field performance, making it suitable for operations in challenging environments. Other notable features include:
- Aerodynamic design reducing noise levels by up to 50%
- Fully enclosed cabin for improved passenger comfort
- Advanced avionics and navigation systems
History and Development
The ATR 72-200 has a rich history of development, including:
- First flight on February 27, 1988
- Certification from EASA in 1992
- Entry into service with Finnair and Adria Airways in the early 1990s
- Significant upgrades and variants, including the ATR 72-212 and ATR 72-500
Operational Use
The ATR 72-200 is widely used by airlines and organizations for:
- Passenger transport, with popular routes in Europe, Asia, and South America
- Cargo operations, carrying goods to remote or challenging locations
- Military operations, including search and rescue missions, medical evacuation, and troop transport
Interesting Facts
Here are some interesting facts about the ATR 72-200:
- The aircraft has a remarkable short-field performance, allowing it to take off and land from runways as short as 800 meters (2,625 feet)
- The ATR 72-200 is used by many airlines for regional services, including connecting cities in Europe, Asia, and North America
- The aircraft has a unique nose-wheel landing gear design, providing improved ground handling and reduced maintenance costs
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the ATR 72-200 unique?
The ATR 72-200's unique features include its high-mounted wing, rear-mounted engine, and advanced avionics. Its short-field performance capabilities also set it apart from other aircraft.
How much does the ATR 72-200 cost?
The estimated cost of a new ATR 72-200 ranges from $20 million to $40 million, depending on configuration and customization options. Used aircraft prices vary widely based on age, condition, and equipment levels.
What is the range of the ATR 72-200?
The ATR 72-200 has a maximum range of approximately 2,200 km (1,367 miles), making it suitable for short-to-medium-haul operations. Its high-altitude cruise performance allows it to maintain efficient speeds at higher altitudes.
Which airlines operate the ATR 72-200?
Many airlines operate the ATR 72-200, including Finnair, Adria Airways, Austrian Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, and several regional carriers. The aircraft is popular for its reliability, efficiency, and flexibility.
Is the ATR 72-200 still in production?
The ATR 72-200 is no longer in production, as the manufacturer has shifted focus to newer variants like the ATR 72-600. However, many existing aircraft remain in service, and some may be available for purchase or lease.
