- Airline invests in five ATR 72-600 aircraft to ensure continuation of connectivity in the Canary Islands
Dubai. 14 November 2021. ATR and Binter Canarias today write another chapter in their long shared history, as the Canary Islands airline signs a firm order for four ATR 72-600 aircraft, with an option for a further one. The deal marks the final step in Binter’s plan to replace its remaining ATR 72-500 aircraft with the latest-generation ATR. The airline will use the aircraft to ensure the continuation of the vital air links that the ATR fleet has provided. Regional air connectivity has been shown to support economic growth in the communities it serves, with a study showing that a 10% increase in regional flights leads to a 6% increase in local GDP. Thanks to its efficiency and versatility, serving locations other aircraft simply cannot go, the ATR -600 has become the leading turboprop on the market with a share of 75% of orders over the last 10 years.
Rodolfo Nunez President of Binter Canarias said: “Ever since its first delivery ATR aircraft had an immediate and enduring impact on our operations. The ATR 72-600 has become our flagship aircraft and with 23 of them in our fleet, upon the completion of these deliveries, it provides the backbone of air connectivity throughout the Canary Islands. This deal for five aircraft represents a significant investment but it will ensure that the many benefits, such as supporting local businesses and facilitating easier transport for locals and tourists alike, will continue.”
ATR CEO, Stefano Bortoli, remarked: “We have had a long partnership with Binter Canarias and ever since their first ATR delivery, we have seen them go from strength to strength as an airline. This makes their reaffirmation of faith in our product a real seal of approval. It shows that our ATR has been reliable and cost-efficient and that the passengers have enjoyed the experience on board. We will continue to introduce innovations that offer real value to airlines to provide the most sustainable and economic solution for connecting local communities.”
ATR foresees the need to replace around 200 70-seat regional aircraft in the next five years.