ATR recently received a type certificate from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) for its ATR 42-600 turboprop paving its way for re-entry into service in the Chinese market. ATR was in discussion with the CAAC for many years, trying to return to China. With this approval, ATR believes it could provide an ideal solution to China’s problem of inadequate regional aircraft.
According to ATR, there is a significant gap in the Chinese air travel market as only 2.5% of the aircraft operating domestic flights are regional aircraft with fewer than 100 seats.
CEO of ATR, Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, said: "Receiving CAAC's validation of the ATR 42-600 type certificate, along with a firm order, is a major achievement marking the re-introduction of ATR turboprops in China. The ATR 42-600 will undoubtedly prove to be a game-changer. ATR offers an eco-responsible alternative to jets while bringing comfort and convenience to passengers, and essential air services for communities and businesses to thrive.”
ATR has predicted that over the next two decades, the world will need an additional 2,450 turboprops, 280 of which will be required in China.
Fabrice Vautier, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations at ATR said: “By 2035, we anticipate that over 150 airports will be built in China and turboprops will play a key role in creating a new network of short, thin routes, complementing the high-speed train offering. Our 20-year forecast predicts a need for 280 new turboprops in the region, and ATR is perfectly placed to meet this demand, whilst also contributing to decreasing the reliance on public subsidies and delivering reduced CO2 emissions."
ATR last operated in China around a decade back in 2010 when five ATR 42-500s were taken out of service. ATR claims that since then the gap in China’s regional air travel market has grown, allowing them to make a strong re-entry.