ATR-LIAT-72-600

Caribbean’s regional airline Leeward Islands Air Transport (LIAT) has taken delivery of the first new ATR 72-600 aircraft from the lessor GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS).

The airliner is the first of eight ATR aircraft, four 68-seat ATR 72-600 and four 48-seat ATR 42-600s, that LIAT will be adding to its current fleet of 14 aircraft, as part of its restructuring plans aimed at modernisation of its fleet and network improvements.

By replacing its existing fleet of turboprop aircraft with advanced and fuel efficient ATRs, the carrier expects to significantly reduce operating and maintenance costs, as well as achieve profitability and offer more comfort to its passengers due to its enhanced seats design.

The new-generation ATR fleet will enable LIAT to optimise its fleet on pan-Caribbean network with aircraft of one family, offering both 50 and 70 seating capacities.

The carrier is expected to place the first ATR 72-600 into service before the end of this month, with the remaining aircraft expected to be delivered during 2013 and 2014.

LIAT chief executive officer Ian Brunton said that the airline currently flies to 21 destinations throughout the Caribbean with most routes under 100nm such as Grenada to Trinidad, or Dominica to Antigua.

"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."

"The 68-seat ATR 72-600s are perfectly adapted to many of our existing and potential routes," said Brunton. "The ATR 72-600 perfectly fits with our requirements in terms of low operating costs, most updated technologies and optimal comfort."

ATR CEO Filippo Bagnato added that delivery of the very first ATR 72-600 to LIAT marked continued development for ATR in the Caribbean region and was an important milestone.

"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," Bagnato said.

ATR stated that ATR -600 series aircraft meets the requirements of airlines that operate inter-island flights.

Powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW 127M engine, the ATR 72-600 aircraft has a capacity to accommodate 68 to 74 passengers, has maximum range with full passenger load of 1,665km.

Image: LIAT is expected to place the first ATR 72-600 into service by the end of this month. Photo: courtesy of ATR.

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