Air Algérie has purchased 16 ATR 72-600 aircraft, the largest order by an African operator in the regional turboprop manufacturer’s history.
Deliveries of the new aircraft, to be operated by Domestic Airlines, a newly-created regional subsidiary of Air Algérie, will take place between 2026 and 2028.
The 72-seats ATR 72-600s are powered by the latest generation PW127XT engines from Pratt & Whitney and will be used to enhance connectivity across Algeria, with particular focus on the southern regions of the country where air travel is essential for economic and social growth.
The deal includes the first full-flight simulator for the aircraft in Africa, to be installed in Air Algérie’s existing training centre, in what is described as “a significant milestone in regional aviation training on the continent”.
“The ATR 72-600 is the right aircraft to help us connect all regions of our country and support national development through reliable and efficient air transport,” said Hamza Benhamouda, Chief Executive Officer of Air Algérie. “Its performance on short and thin routes makes it an essential part of our strategy while its fuel efficiency also supports our goal of reducing emissions and building more sustainable operations.”
He stressed the airline’s commitment to supporting Algeria’s regional aviation infrastructure into the future.
“By investing in this new fleet and the first ATR 72-600 simulator in Africa, we are also reinforcing our commitment to regional connectivity, operational excellence, and the future of regional aviation in Algeria,” he said.
Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer of ATR, said the order was “a powerful endorsement of the ATR 72-600’s capabilities and the value it brings to foster regional connectivity”.
She pointed out that the aircraft’s rugged performance was ideally suited to the harsh operating conditions found in Algeria.
“With its exceptionally low operating costs, fuel efficiency, and ability to perform reliably in diverse and demanding environments like the Algerian climate, the ATR 72-600 is uniquely suited for low-density routes and remote regions,” she said.
Hamza Benhamouda and Nathalie Tarnaud Laude
