Drukair places order for a new ATR 42-600 equipped with the ClearVision™ system
Drukair has been operating ATR 42s since 2011 and operates in challenging environments, serving small airports in the Himalayan Mountains. Certified last year, the ATR -600’s latest Standard 3 avionics includes RNP AR 0.3/0.3, which further enhances airfield accessibility and operational performance.
ATR predicts that regional aviation will require more than 600 40-60-seat turboprop aircraft over the next 20 years. The ATR 42-600 is currently the only 50-seater turboprop in production and a proven route opener. In 2017, ATR aircraft opened over 150 routes and 30% of the overall traffic growth over the next 20 years will be represented by routes that do not exist today.
Tandi Wangchuk, Chief Executive Officer of Drukair, said: “Purchasing another ATR was a natural decision. The improvements delivered by the -600 series’ new Standard 3 avionics, along with the ClearVision™ CVS system add significant operational and thus economic value. We also look forward to welcoming passengers into the most modern cabin in regional aviation and offering them the most comfortable in-flight experience possible.”
ATR Chief Executive Officer, Christian Scherer, remarked: “Drukair’s decision to purchase the latest version of our product not only validates the versatility and operational efficiency of our -600 series aircraft, but also affirms the value of our policy of continuous development. Offering valuable solutions which have a genuine and immediate impact on our customer’s business will always be a priority for us at ATR. We look forward to contributing to the famous “Gross National Happiness” of the people of Bhutan, long into the future.”
About Drukair – Royal Bhutan Airlines
Drukair is a Royal Government of Bhutan Owned Airline run by the Investment Wing, Druk Holding & Investments Ltd. The national Airline of the Kingdom of Bhutan operates a schedule network within the South Asian region from its Head Quarters at Paro, a picturesque Valley in Western Bhutan. The Capital, Thimphu is a 60 minute drive away. Drukair currently operates with three A319s and an ATR 42-500.
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About ATR
ATR is the world number one regional aircraft manufacturer with its ATR 42 and 72, the best-selling aircraft in the below 90-seat market segment. The unifying vision of the company is to accelerate sustainable connections for people, communities and businesses, no matter how remote. Flown by some 200 airlines in over 100 countries, ATR aircraft open 120 new routes on average every year, facilitating the development of territories and enabling access to crucial services like healthcare and education. Thanks to ATR’s focus on continuous innovation and the intrinsic efficiency of the turboprop technology, ATR aircraft are the most advanced, versatile, cost-effective and lowest-emission regional aircraft on the market, emitting 45% less CO2 than similar-size regional jets. In January 2022, we flew the first ever commercial aircraft using 100% SAF in both engines. ATR is a joint-venture between Airbus and Leonardo.