Time for some news from the Singapore Air show, where it seems we have a rare thing that sneaks out of it. That’s right – an order for commercial aircraft.
Bangkok Airways has signed a contract with ATR for an additional four ATR72-600 aircraft.
Bangkok Airways ATR72-600 – Image, ATR.
The airline currently operates 15 ATR aircraft – 9 ATR72-600 and 6 ATR72-500. The older -500 series are in the process of being replaced, with the four aircraft assisting in that process.
The aircraft will be configured in a single class, with 70 seats for delivery between October 2018 and March 2019.
The order itself is worth over US$100 million at list prices.
Christophe Clarenc, Bangkok Airways’ Senior Vice President – Technical on the order states:
“Since the introduction of our very first ATR back in 1994 we have built up a solid and fruitful partnership that has substantially contributed to providing air services all over the country, thus developing business and tourism. The ATRs have proven, for years, to be the right aircraft to create new routes and efficiently expanding regional networks. The progressive harmonisation of our regional fleet with ATR 72-600s brings our high-end customers the best standards of comfort, and further consolidates ourselves as Asia’s Boutique Airline.
ATR are happy with the order, with Christian Scherer, ATR’s Chief Executive Office
“We warmly thank Bangkok Airways for their commitment and long-standing confidence towards our aircraft. ATR has experienced a dramatic growth in Asia over the last decade, and Bangkok Airways has strongly contributed to this success not only with the expansion of their fleet of ATRs, but also because are a benchmark when it comes to developing networks with eco-efficient and versatile aircraft. More globally, the ATR aircraft created last year some 70 new routes in Asian countries, generating over one million of additional seats and revenue opportunities for their operators. This ability to generate business opportunities is clearly a key point of our outstanding expansion in Asia”.
When buying aircraft – bigger sometimes isn’t better – rather choosing the right size of the aircraft to match the requirements of the network is better.
Bangkok Airways has the ability to scale – thanks to ATR72 aircraft, and flex upwards if needed with the Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft in its fleet.
For regional growth – Bangkok Airways are sticking with ATR to integrate with their fleet.
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