Papua New Guinean airline (PNG) has ordered three ATR 42-600S Aircraft from ATR which will be the short take-off and landing version (STOL), ensuring the capability of taking-off and landing on runways as short as 800m in length.
The airline currently operates seven ATR 72-600s and will use the three new STOL aircraft to replace its current fleet of ageing STOL turboprops.
“Since incorporating the ATR 72-600 into our fleet PNG Air has gone from strength to strength,” said Paul Abbot, Chief Executive Officer of PNG Air. He added that the ATR 72-600 burns 40% less fuel and emits 40% less CO2 than a similar sized regional jet, further commenting, “the maintenance costs and commonality were hugely attractive.”
ATR highlighted that many current generations of STOL aircraft are reaching the end of their lifecycles, so it is “vital” to replace them in order to secure the connections they operate. With this order, PNG Air has ensured their passengers have continued accessibility to the communities that they reach.
“Without a viable STOL replacement PNG Air’s passengers would face significant challenges to their way of life,” commented ATR Chief Executive Office, Stefano Bortoli, adding, “As a successful airline PNG Air have shown that they understand the importance of these links to their passengers and the communities that they serve.”
