ATR 42-600S STOL takes flight in its partial configuration

The 30 to 50 seater aircraft capable of taking-off and landing on shorter runways will now enter a phase of ground and flight tests

Toulouse, Francazal Airport, 11 May 2022 – ATR, the world number one regional aircraft manufacturer, today announces the successful first flight of the partially configured STOL variant (for ‘Short Take-Off and Landing’) of its ATR 42-600 aircraft. The flight took off at 10:00 from Francazal airport and lasted 2 hours and 15 minutes.

The crew onboard performed a number of tests to measure the upgraded aircraft systems’ performance.

Following the successful completion of this first flight, new functionalities will be tested one at a time, starting with the MFC-NG (Multifunctional Computer New Generation), followed by the Autobrake, Ground Spoiler, and increased take off rating systems.

The aircraft will enter its final configuration at the end of the year with the addition of a new larger rudder and move on to the certification phase in 2023.

To-date, ATR has recorded 20 commitments from airlines and lessors for this ATR 42-600S.

There are currently close to 500 airports around the world with a runway length between 800 and 1,000 meters (2,625 to 3,281 feet) that could welcome the ATR 42-600S. This new STOL variant will help passengers benefit from an increased regional connectivity.

About ATR

ATR is the world number one regional aircraft manufacturer with its ATR 42 and 72 aircraft the best-selling aircraft in the less than 90-seat market segment. The unifying vision of the company’s employees is to help everyone, no matter where they are in the world, to connect and develop in a responsible manner. Thanks to the efficiency of turboprop technology and the benefits of the company’s focus on continuous innovation, ATR aircraft open over 130 new routes every year on average, burn 45% less fuel and emit 45% less CO2 than regional jets. For all of these reasons, ATR aircraft have been chosen by some 200 companies in 100 countries around the world. ATR is a joint-venture between Airbus and Leonardo.