Industry ATR announces new orders at Singapore Air Show 2020

ATR released, that Papua New Guinean (PNG) Air has ordered three ATR 42-600S and US-Bangla Airlines two ATR 72-600 turboprops. The announcements were made over the course of the Singapore Air Show 2020.

PNG has ordered the Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) version of the ATR 42-600, meaning the carrier will become the launch operator of this variant. The aircraft will be capable of taking-off and landing on runways that are as short as 800 metres.

Commenting on the deal Paul Abbot, Chief Executive Officer of PNG Air, said: “Since incorporating the ATR 72-600 into our fleet PNG Air has gone from strength to strength, benefitting from its unrivalled efficiency, as it burns 40% less fuel and emits 40% less CO2 than a similar sized regional jet. When looking at options to replace our existing STOL fleet, the ATR -600 family’s maintenance costs and commonality were hugely attractive. This commonality will lead to greater efficiency in terms of both spare parts and pilot training. We are also looking forward to introducing passengers travelling to and from our destinations with short runways to the comfort of the modern ATR -600 series cabin.”

PNG is providing aviation services for over 25 years and is owned by major Papua New Guinea institutions. The airline operates an extensive RPT and freight network. It operates 22,000 flight hours annually with an aircraft fleet of 17 aircraft, including 7 ATR 72s and 17 De Havilland Canada DHC-8-100s.

Next to PNG, US-Bangla Airlines has confirmed that it will receive new ATR aircraft. Two ATR 72-600s will join the carrier´s fleet, after Singapore-based lessor Aviation PLC has converted two purchase rights into firm orders.

With the new aircraft, the largest private airline in Bangladesh will furthermore strengthen its position. The carrier will also be able to offer flights to new destinations and more frequencies. US-Bangla will furthermore benefit from the good operational performance and the lower fuel burn of the aircraft.

Mohammed Abdullah Al Mamun, Managing Director of US-Bangla commented: “Regional connectivity is essential in Bangladesh and the region. We are delighted that we can offer our passengers the chance to access new opportunities throughout the country. Operating the ATR 72-600 makes total sense in Bangladesh, we have received very good feedback from passengers and are very satisfied with the reliability and comfort of these aircraft. With the -600 series’ modern and comfortable cabin, featuring the latest 18” wide passenger seats, we are able to give our passengers a premium experience, which is essential for US Bangla.”

US-Bangla Airlines was founded in 2010 and commenced operations in July 2014. The main hub has been installed at Dhaka Hazrat Shahjalal Airport. The current fleet consists of six ATR 72s, four Boeing 737-800s and three De Havilland Canada DHC-8-400 aircraft.