ATR 42: The Ultimate Guide To This Regional Plane

Jan 20, 2026 by Tim Redaksi 50 views

Hey guys! Ever wondered about those cool, smaller airplanes that zip you to regional destinations? Chances are, you might have flown on an ATR 42! This amazing aircraft is a turboprop marvel, perfect for short-haul flights. Let's dive deep into what makes the ATR 42 so special. We’re going to cover everything from its history and design to its performance and why it’s such a workhorse in the aviation world.

What is ATR 42?

When we talk about the ATR 42, we're referring to a twin-turboprop, short-haul regional airliner that was jointly developed by the French company Aérospatiale (now part of Airbus) and the Italian company Aeritalia (now Leonardo S.p.A.) under the Aircraft de Transport Régional (ATR) consortium. The ATR 42 is designed for short-haul flights, typically connecting smaller cities and regional hubs. This aircraft stands out due to its fuel efficiency, operational flexibility, and ability to serve airports with shorter runways.

The development of the ATR 42 began in the early 1980s, with the first prototype making its maiden flight on August 16, 1984. Certification followed in September 1985, and the first commercial delivery was to Air Littoral in December of the same year. The ATR 42 quickly gained popularity among regional airlines due to its economic advantages and suitability for routes that couldn't be efficiently served by larger jet aircraft. The aircraft's design focuses on low operating costs and high reliability, making it an attractive option for airlines operating in competitive markets.

Over the years, several variants of the ATR 42 have been introduced, each with improvements in engine performance, avionics, and passenger comfort. These enhancements have allowed the ATR 42 to remain competitive in the regional aviation market, adapting to changing demands and technological advancements. From its initial design to the latest models, the ATR 42 has consistently provided a cost-effective and reliable solution for regional air travel, connecting communities and supporting local economies. Its continued success is a testament to its well-engineered design and the ongoing commitment to innovation by ATR.

Development and Design

The development and design of the ATR 42 are a fascinating story of collaboration and innovation in the aerospace industry. In the early 1980s, Aérospatiale of France and Aeritalia of Italy joined forces to create a new generation of regional aircraft that could efficiently serve short-haul routes. This partnership led to the formation of the ATR consortium, with the goal of producing an aircraft that combined advanced technology with economic efficiency.

The design philosophy behind the ATR 42 centered on optimizing performance for regional operations. The aircraft was designed with a high-wing configuration, which provides excellent short-field performance and enhanced stability during takeoff and landing. This design choice allows the ATR 42 to operate from smaller airports with shorter runways, making it ideal for connecting smaller communities and regional hubs. The use of turboprop engines, specifically the Pratt & Whitney Canada PW120 family, was crucial for achieving fuel efficiency and reducing operating costs.

The ATR 42's fuselage was designed to accommodate between 40 and 50 passengers in a comfortable, two-by-two seating configuration. The cabin was designed to provide a pleasant flying experience, with ample headroom and large windows for natural light. The aircraft also incorporated advanced avionics systems for its time, enhancing navigational accuracy and safety. The flight deck was designed to be pilot-friendly, with ergonomic controls and clear displays.

Throughout its development, the ATR 42 underwent extensive testing and refinement to ensure it met stringent safety and performance standards. The first prototype made its maiden flight in August 1984, and after a comprehensive certification program, the aircraft entered commercial service in December 1985. The success of the ATR 42 can be attributed to its innovative design, which balanced performance, efficiency, and passenger comfort, making it a popular choice among regional airlines worldwide. Continuous improvements and upgrades have kept the ATR 42 competitive, ensuring it remains a vital part of the regional aviation landscape.

Features and Specifications

The features and specifications of the ATR 42 are what make it such a versatile and efficient regional airliner. Understanding these details helps to appreciate its design and capabilities. The ATR 42 is characterized by its twin-turboprop configuration, high-wing design, and comfortable passenger cabin. Here's a detailed look at its key features and specifications:

Engines: The ATR 42 is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW120 series turboprop engines. These engines are known for their reliability and fuel efficiency, providing the aircraft with excellent performance on short-haul routes. The specific engine model varies depending on the variant of the ATR 42, with newer models featuring upgraded engines for enhanced performance.
Dimensions: The ATR 42 has a length of approximately 22.67 meters (74 feet 5 inches) and a wingspan of around 24.57 meters (80 feet 7 inches). Its height is approximately 7.59 meters (24 feet 11 inches). These dimensions allow the aircraft to operate comfortably at smaller regional airports.
Capacity: The standard passenger capacity of the ATR 42 is between 40 and 50 seats, typically arranged in a two-by-two configuration. The cabin is designed to provide a comfortable flying experience, with ample legroom and overhead storage space. Some configurations also include a small galley and lavatory.
Performance: The ATR 42 has a maximum cruising speed of about 509 kilometers per hour (316 miles per hour) and a range of approximately 1,323 kilometers (822 miles). Its takeoff and landing distances are relatively short, allowing it to operate from airports with limited runway lengths. The aircraft's high-wing design contributes to its stability and short-field performance.
Avionics: The ATR 42 is equipped with advanced avionics systems, including a digital flight management system (FMS), electronic flight instrument system (EFIS), and weather radar. These systems enhance navigational accuracy, safety, and situational awareness for the pilots.
Weight: The maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of the ATR 42 is around 18,600 kilograms (41,000 pounds). Its empty weight is approximately 11,250 kilograms (24,800 pounds). The aircraft's lightweight design contributes to its fuel efficiency and operational flexibility.

The ATR 42's combination of efficient engines, optimized dimensions, comfortable cabin, and advanced avionics makes it a popular choice for regional airlines around the world. Its ability to operate from smaller airports and its economic efficiency make it an ideal solution for connecting communities and supporting regional air travel.

Variants of ATR 42

The variants of the ATR 42 showcase the continuous evolution and improvement of this regional aircraft. Over the years, ATR has introduced several versions of the ATR 42, each with specific enhancements to meet the changing needs of the aviation market. These variants include improvements in engine performance, avionics, passenger comfort, and operational capabilities.

ATR 42-200: This was the original production version of the ATR 42. It was powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW120 engines and featured a standard passenger capacity of 42 seats. The ATR 42-200 laid the foundation for the subsequent models and established the aircraft's reputation for reliability and efficiency.
ATR 42-300: An improved version of the ATR 42-200, the -300 variant featured more powerful Pratt & Whitney Canada PW120A engines. These engines provided better takeoff performance and increased payload capacity. The ATR 42-300 became a popular choice for regional airlines looking to enhance their operations.
ATR 42-320: This variant was equipped with more powerful Pratt & Whitney Canada PW121 engines, offering further improvements in performance and payload. The ATR 42-320 was designed for operations in more demanding environments, such as high-altitude airports and hot climates.
ATR 42-500: A significant upgrade from the earlier models, the ATR 42-500 incorporated several advanced features, including new avionics, improved passenger comfort, and more efficient Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127E engines. The -500 variant also featured a redesigned cabin with larger overhead bins and improved lighting.
ATR 42-600: The latest version of the ATR 42, the -600 series, represents a major step forward in technology and performance. It features the new Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127M engines, which offer increased power and reduced fuel consumption. The ATR 42-600 also includes a modern glass cockpit with advanced avionics, enhancing safety and operational efficiency. The cabin has been redesigned to provide a more comfortable and modern passenger experience.

Each of these variants has played a crucial role in the success of the ATR 42, contributing to its reputation as a reliable and versatile regional airliner. The continuous improvements and upgrades demonstrate ATR's commitment to innovation and its dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the aviation industry.

Airlines that Use ATR 42

The airlines that use ATR 42 are spread across the globe, reflecting the aircraft's versatility and suitability for regional operations. Many airlines have come to rely on the ATR 42 for its efficiency, reliability, and ability to serve smaller airports. Here are some notable airlines that operate the ATR 42:

Air Corsica: This French airline uses the ATR 42 to connect various destinations within Corsica and to mainland France. The ATR 42's ability to operate from smaller airports makes it ideal for serving the unique geographical challenges of the region.
Binter Canarias: Based in the Canary Islands, Binter Canarias operates a fleet of ATR 42 aircraft to provide inter-island connectivity. The ATR 42's short-field performance and fuel efficiency make it well-suited for the short hops between the islands.
HOP!: As a regional subsidiary of Air France, HOP! operates ATR 42 aircraft on various domestic routes in France. The ATR 42's экономичность and passenger comfort make it a valuable asset for serving regional markets.
LIAT (Leeward Islands Air Transport): This Caribbean airline uses the ATR 42 to connect various islands in the region. The ATR 42's ability to operate from smaller airports and its reliability make it essential for inter-island travel.
Air Nostrum: A Spanish regional airline, Air Nostrum operates ATR 42 aircraft on domestic routes within Spain and to neighboring countries. The ATR 42's efficiency and operational flexibility make it a valuable part of their fleet.

These are just a few examples of the many airlines that rely on the ATR 42 to provide essential regional air services. The aircraft's versatility, efficiency, and reliability have made it a popular choice for airlines operating in diverse markets around the world. From island hopping in the Caribbean to connecting remote communities in Europe, the ATR 42 continues to play a vital role in regional aviation.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Like any aircraft, the ATR 42 has its advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these pros and cons can help in appreciating its role in regional aviation. Here's a look at the key advantages and disadvantages of the ATR 42:

Advantages:

Fuel Efficiency: The ATR 42 is known for its excellent fuel efficiency, thanks to its turboprop engines. This makes it an economical choice for short-haul routes, reducing operating costs for airlines.
Short-Field Performance: The ATR 42's high-wing design and powerful engines allow it to operate from airports with shorter runways. This makes it ideal for serving smaller communities and regional hubs that may not be accessible to larger jet aircraft.
Reliability: The ATR 42 has a proven track record of reliability, with many aircraft accumulating thousands of flight hours. Its robust design and well-maintained systems contribute to its dependability.
Passenger Comfort: The ATR 42 offers a comfortable flying experience for passengers, with ample legroom, overhead storage, and large windows for natural light. The cabin is designed to provide a pleasant environment for short-haul flights.
Versatility: The ATR 42 can be configured for various missions, including passenger transport, cargo operations, and special missions. This versatility makes it a valuable asset for airlines operating in diverse markets.

Disadvantages:

Speed: Compared to jet aircraft, the ATR 42 has a lower cruising speed. This can result in longer flight times on certain routes, which may be a drawback for some passengers.
Noise: Turboprop engines tend to be noisier than jet engines, both inside and outside the aircraft. This can be a concern for passengers and communities near airports.
Altitude: The ATR 42 typically flies at lower altitudes than jet aircraft. This can result in a more turbulent ride in certain weather conditions.
Capacity: The ATR 42 has a limited passenger capacity compared to larger jet aircraft. This may not be suitable for high-demand routes where more seats are needed.
Maintenance: While the ATR 42 is generally reliable, it requires regular maintenance to ensure its continued airworthiness. This can result in downtime and maintenance costs for airlines.

Despite these disadvantages, the ATR 42 remains a popular and valuable aircraft for regional airlines around the world. Its advantages in terms of fuel efficiency, short-field performance, and reliability often outweigh its drawbacks, making it an ideal choice for connecting communities and supporting regional air travel.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! The ATR 42 is a real workhorse in the regional aviation world. From its collaborative development and innovative design to its impressive features and specifications, this aircraft has proven its worth time and again. Whether it's connecting remote islands or serving smaller regional airports, the ATR 42's fuel efficiency, reliability, and short-field performance make it a top choice for airlines worldwide.

While it might not be the flashiest or fastest plane in the sky, its practical advantages and continuous improvements have solidified its place in aviation history. Next time you find yourself on a short-haul flight, take a peek at the plane – you might just be soaring through the skies on an ATR 42! Safe travels, everyone!