Air New Zealand has ordered seven new short-haul planes with an option to buy five more from France-based company ATR for $270m.

The 68-seat ATR72-600 aircraft will be powered by a Pratt & Whitney 127M engine, offering 2,750hp per engine, maximum weight at take-off of 23,000kg, a maximum load of 7,500kg and range of 899nm with full passenger load.

The aircraft comes with advanced cockpit technology which will enhance the airline’s ability to fly in bad weather.

The first aircraft will be delivered in October 2012 and deliveries will be completed in 2016.