Courtesy Michael Kelly |
Aer Arann operating as Aer Lingus Regional new ATR72-600 EI-FAS c/n 1083 ex F-WWET named “St Connell” entered revenue service yesterday operating EIN3254/5 (ATC callsign RE54/55ED) from Dublin to Edinburgh, The aircraft was delivered Toulouse-Dublin on Friday 3rd May as RE600P arriving at 1600.
A further seven ATR 72-600s will be delivered this year and next replacing the older existing fleet of ATR 72-200s and ATR 42-300s. With 3 ATR 72-500s currently in service the new ATR72-600s will bring to 11 the total fleet of ATRs operated by Aer Arann.
EI-FAS is ADSB equipped allocated Hex Code 4CAAD7, we understand the next ATR72-600s for delivery are to be registered EI-FAT, EI-FAU and EI-FAV.
Aer Arann Interim CEO Sean Brogan said “We are delighted to be partnering again with ATR. Regional traffic is substantially developing and we aim to upgrade our regional aircraft fleet with the new ATR -600s. These aircraft offer high economic efficiency, optimum performance and exceptional passenger comfort. We are convinced that these new airplanes will bring very interesting business opportunities, while further developing air traffic in the region”.
ATR CEO Filippo Bagnato said “ATR is honored to be associated to the growth of Aer Arann and Aer Lingus Regional. We are happy to partner with such prestigious operators. Today we are eager to further develop the presence of the new ATR -600s in Europe, a market with a strong demand for new generation ATR turboprops. This demand is driven by increasing operating costs for airlines and the fact that many fleets need to be renewed soon. Aer Arann has a strong commitment to the environment and this is exemplified by their choice of the most “Green” aircraft available today!”.
About the ATR 72-600:
- Passenger capacity: 68-74 seats
- Engines: Pratt & Whitney Canada PW 127M
- Maximum power at take-off: 2,750 horse power per engine
- Maximum weight at take-off: 23,000 Kg
- Maximum payload: 7,500 Kg
- Range with full passenger load: 900 nautical miles (1,665 Km)
Irish Aviation Research Institute © 5th May 2013 All Rights Reserved.