Delivering More than Cargo: How Regional Aircraft Support the Global Economy

According to IATA, airlines transport over 52 million metric tonnes of goods a year – that’s more than 35% of global trade or $18.6 billion worth of goods every day. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, air cargo has become even more important – delivering much-needed medicines, medical equipment and more across the world to remote and hard to reach areas. In this context, it is clear that regional cargo aircraft is essential for a connected world, helping communities prosper in difficult times.

ATR aircraft have always been delivering essential connectivity to communities around the world. With a fleet of over 130 converted cargo aircraft, ATR freighters deliver more than just cargo; they help support regional economies across the globe and provide essential connectivity for individuals, businesses and medical professionals. This is all made possible thanks to the in-service freighter fleet and will be enhanced with the arrival of the new ATR 72-600F.

Introducing the ATR 72-600F

The new ATR 72-600F is a purpose-built freighter. From the windowless fuselage crafted for freight operations, to the latest generation avionics that can be upgraded to integrate future innovations, the new freighter is designed with minimal maintenance costs and maximum reliability in terms of dispatch. It also has enhanced battery life, more powerful LED lights to support the work of handlers loading and unloading the aircraft, as well as a large cargo door and wide-cross section, all of which are immensely beneficial for high-capacity freight operations.

ATR 72-600F freighter interior cargo aircraft

Perfect timing

Rapid and well-coordinated distribution of treatments is essential in the fight against the pandemic. ICAO estimates 8,000 single-aisle aircraft are necessary to deliver COVID-19 vaccines globally. Regional aircraft will have an important role to play and are already suitably equipped for the task. Their ability to link difficult to reach locations will be invaluable in the coming months.

Beyond the pandemic

E-commerce has continued its growth throughout the crisis of these last years. According to the World Economic Forum, COVID-19 has accelerated the shift to e-commerce by 5 years.

In particular as the “time to customer” metric is more crucial than ever, regional freighters have a key role to play in the fleets of transportation and logistics companies. They enable swift delivery of goods to locations across the globe which may be difficult or almost impossible to access via land-based routes.

A lifeline for businesses and communities

Whether it is accessing geographically isolated communities quickly, or regional markets in developed economies, regional freighters are a vital piece of the puzzle for transport, logistic and delivery customers right now.

ATR regional freighters continue to provide vital lifelines for businesses and communities, linking secondary or tertiary economies either to each other or into main hubs. This fuels local economies and stimulates recovery following the shock of COVID-19.

You can learn more about the new ATR 72-600F here.