Middle East sale for new-generation ATR

ATR has sold the first example of its new-generation ATR 72-600 in the Middle East. Saudi Arabian private operator Alpha Star Aviation Services has signed a firm deal for a single aircraft, plus an option on a second. The first aircraft will be delivered in September 2014.
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ATR has sold the first example of its new-generation ATR 72-600 in the Middle East.

Saudi Arabian private operator Alpha Star Aviation Services has signed a firm deal for a single aircraft, plus an option on a second. The first aircraft will be delivered in September 2014.

Riyadh-based Alpha Star, whose activities include aircraft management, charters and air ambulance services, was also the first Middle East operator of the ATR 42-600.

The smaller aircraft has been operating with the carrier since the end of 2012.

The operator has chosen a high-comfort layout for its ATR 72-600, seating 66 passengers. The aircraft can operate from paved and unpaved runways in the region.

“Given the intense market dynamics with a multitude of business opportunities in the region, Alpha Star needs more reliable, comfortable and high-performance aircraft, such as the ATR 72-600, to better satisfy the rising demand in private transport,” said company CEO Salim Al Muzaini.

ATR is showing an ATR 72-600 in the livery of Indonesian flag-carrier Garuda at the show. The aircraft on display is the first of 25 ATR 72-600s due to be delivered to the airline as a part of a contract announced last month.

The aircraft is stopping off at the show en route to its new home, Jakarta.