The pan-Caribbean regional airline LIAT Limited started its fleet replacement with the first brand-new ATR 72-600 aircraft delivered today.
This first ATR aircraft in LIAT's fleet is being leased from the lessor GECAS (GE Capital Aviation Services). This is the first of a total of eight ATRs (four 68-seat ATR 72-600 and four 48-seat ATR 42-600s) that will be introduced into LIAT's fleet.
The introduction of these brand-new ATR -600s in LIAT's current fleet of 14 aircraft is a part of the airline's restructuring plans. The line-up of the full new generation ATR model range will allow LIAT to optimize their fleet on their pan-Caribbean network with aircraft of one same family, offering both 50 and 70 seat capacity, according to the aircraft maker.
Ian Brunton, chief executive officer of LIAT, said: “LIAT currently connects 21 destinations throughout the Caribbean with most routes under 100 Nm, like Grenada to Trinidad, or Dominica to Antigua. The 68-seat ATR 72-600s are perfectly adapted to many of our existing and potential routes.
“By renewing our fleet our customers will enjoy more efficiency and better travel experience. The ATR 72-600 perfectly fits with our requirements in terms of low operating costs, most updated technologies and optimal comfort. This is the most-recently certified turboprop aircraft on the market, and we are proud to start our operations with such a modern, successful and well-reputed aircraft.”
It is anticipated that the first ATR 72-600 would be pressed into service before the end of June, with the remaining aircraft expected for delivery during 2013 and 2014.
Filippo Bagnato, chief executive officer of ATR, added: “The delivery of the very first ATR 72-600 to LIAT marks continued development for ATR in the Caribbean region and is an important milestone. Today LIAT joins a group of world class airlines that are redefining on-board comfort and achieving an unrivalled level of cost efficiency. With the new ATR -600s, LIAT carries on its approach of continuous improvement and meeting the challenging strong growth in air travel in the Caribbean region in the most cost-effective way possible.”
About the ATR 72-600:- Passenger capacity: 68-74 seats
- Engines: Pratt & Whitney Canada PW 127M
- Maximum power at take-off: 2,750 horse power per engine
- Maximum weight at take-off: 23,000 Kg
- Maximum payload: 7,500 Kg
- Range with full passenger load: 900 nautical miles (1,665 Km)