Wednesday, 11 December 2024
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ATR delivers 1,700th aircraft to Air Corsica

French carrier completes fleet transition to latest-generation turboprops

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Air Corsica ATR 72-600. (Photo: ATR)

Regional aircraft manufacturer ATR delivered its 1,700th aircraft to Air Corsica, marking a significant milestone for both companies. The delivery of an ATR 72-600 turboprop completes Air Corsica’s transition from the ATR -500 series to the latest generation of aircraft.

The milestone underscores ATR’s position in the regional aviation market and highlights Air Corsica’s commitment to modernizing its fleet for improved efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

The aircraft, registered as F-HXKZ, bears the manufacturer serial number (MSN) 1698. It made its first flight on July 31, 2024, and was delivered to Air Corsica on August 23, 2024. The plane, nicknamed “La Liaison,” is configured with 72 seats in an all-economy layout.

Air Corsica now operates seven ATR 72-600 aircraft, all equipped with the new PW127XT engine. According to ATR, this engine offers a 20% reduction in maintenance costs and at least a 3% reduction in fuel consumption compared to its predecessor, the PW127M.

Marie-Hélène Casanova-Servas, President of Air Corsica’s Supervisory Board, said, “Completing our fleet renewal with the ATR 72-600 is a pivotal moment for Air Corsica, reflecting our commitment to providing the best possible service to our passengers and supporting the economic vitality of our island.”

The new aircraft is expected to enhance Air Corsica’s operational efficiency while reducing its environmental footprint. ATR claims the ATR 72-600 generates 45% less CO2 emissions compared to a similar-sized regional jet.

Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, ATR’s Chief Executive Officer, said, “Delivering our 1,700th aircraft to Air Corsica marks a major milestone in our partnership and highlights our joint commitment to setting the standard for regional connectivity.”

The delivery is part of Air Corsica’s efforts to improve regional connectivity, potentially stimulating economic growth through increased business activity, tourism, and investment opportunities on the island. The aircraft was ferried from Toulouse to Ajaccio on its delivery date, marking the beginning of its service with Air Corsica.

Air Corsica, Corsica’s leading airline, operates 51% of annual traffic to and from the island’s four airports. The carrier serves 12 public service domestic routes, 12 non-public service domestic routes, and 12 international routes, totaling 22,800 flights annually.

Written by
Dirk Andrei Salcedo

Dirk is the founder and editor-in-chief of Aviation Updates Philippines (AUP), a platform dedicated to providing the latest news and insights on the aviation industry in the Philippines. With a strong passion for aviation and a background in computer engineering, he manages all aspects of AUP, from website development to content curation.

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