Supporting Community Connectivity in Canada Through Responsible Aviation

ATR continues to reinforce its commitment to regional connectivity with its state-of-the-art turboprop aircraft, purpose-built to deliver essential services in the most challenging environments. As part of this commitment, ATR has participated in the 2025 NATA Annual Conference & Tradeshow, engaging directly with key stakeholders and regional operators to further support aviation in Canada’s Northern and remote communities. 

Operating in such regions requires resilience, adaptability, and efficiency. ATR aircraft are uniquely suited for this mission— capable of operating on unpaved runways, performing reliably in extreme weather, and transporting both passengers and essential goods. 

Regional specialists in Canada mainly serve the country’s Northern part, providing essential services to communities situated in remote and mostly inaccessible areas. Currently, there are 10 ATR operators across the country, flying both passenger and cargo aircraft, with the largest ATR fleet belonging to Canadian North , which operates 12 ATR passenger aircraft and 3 ATR freighters.  

Over the past five years, three Canadian regional operators have introduced ATRs into their fleets, recognising the aircraft’s ability to perform in Canada’s rugged conditions. Rise Air, in particular, recently logged the first new ATR order in Canada since 1993—an important milestone—followed by an order from Hydro-Québec announced in early 2025, demonstrating the value of the ATR 72-600 across a wide range of missions. 

ATR’s presence in Canada has grown from 41 in 2019 to 62 in 2025. Of these, 30 are ATR 42s—aircraft that are now in high demand for servicing low-demand routes in remote regions. 

Equipped with advanced Pratt & Whitney PW127XT engines, a full glass cockpit, high-speed connectivity, and industry-leading fuel efficiency, ATR’s modern turboprops are designed to meet today’s regional needs while preparing for a more sustainable tomorrow. 

The growing adoption of ATR aircraft in Canada underscores their reliability and effectiveness in some of the world’s most demanding operating conditions. 

With rising demand for reliable, efficient, and sustainable air transport in underserved regions, ATR sees significant potential for further growth in the Canadian market.