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On May 18th, regional jet manufacturer ATR announced its plans for the next generation
of its best-selling family of regional aircraft, the ATR "EVO," due to enter service by 2030.
The next generation of aircraft will feature a new powerplant with hybrid capability and
improvements in performance, economics, and sustainability.
The new eco-design will include new propellers, upgraded systems, and an enhanced cabin.
The aircraft will remain a two-engine turboprop that can run on 100% Sustainable Aviation
Fuel (SAF).
The Toulouse-based company ranks as the world's number one regional aircraft manufacturer
with customers in over 100 countries worldwide.
Stefano Bortoli, Chief Executive Officer of ATR, highlighted the potential of the new
generation to reduce emissions worldwide, saying:
“Our next generation of aircraft will be a step forward in responsible flying through
further incremental innovation.
When it enters the market, the new ATR 'EVO' will pave the way towards a decarbonised future
for aviation."
ATR currently provides several models of its turboprop aircraft to regional carriers across
the globe and is striving to lead the charge toward decarbonization.
The manufacturer recently reaffirmed its focus on lowering maintenance costs and emissions
in the Asia-Pacific region, where it maintains a significant presence.
ATR will achieve cost-saving through a 20% lower fuel burn and a 20% overall reduction
in maintenance costs.
The aircraft will also feature improved performance in terms of time to climb and an enhanced
cabin, which will utilize lighter bio-sourced and recycled materials.
Fabrice Vautier, Senior Vice President Commercial at ATR, highlighted the benefits to regional
airlines saying that carriers will be able to serve thin routes more profitably, and
communities can benefit from more connectivity, more essential services, and more economic
development.
"Our aim is to continue to offer customers and society ever more inclusive and responsible
air transportation.”
Vautier said.
While its a segment that maybe isn't as closely watched as narrowbody and widebody
commercial jet markets, it appears that the competition to design and build the next generation
of efficient turboprops is starting to heat up.
Embraer's new project to develop a turboprop is reportedly moving very well, at least according
to the company's CEO, Francisco Gomes Neto.
The Brazilian manufacturer could make a final decision on its newest aircraft by the end
of the year with Neto saying that his company is now in the phase of defining a supplier
for the aircraft, adding: “We are doing tests already with the concepts,
so it is moving very well.
Furthermore, we expect to be ready to make a final decision on the business case by the
end of the year, beginning of 2023.”
Better known for making regional jets, Embraer is looking to move in on ATR's territory.
Its new turboprop could have a range of a bit more than 800 nautical miles (around 1,481
kilometers).
While this is less than the current range of the ATR 72-600, Embraer aims to make the
aircraft faster and will have a quieter cabin due to its rear fuselage-mounted engines.
Are you excited for the next generations of regional turboprops?
What's your current favorite?
Let us know by leaving a comment.