Air Algérie signs for 16 ATR72-600 aircraft

It seems negotiations from beyond the Paris Air Show are paying off with Air Algérie signing for new aircraft from ATR.

Air Algerie Domestic Airline ATR72-600 – Rendering, ATR

Air Algérie has placed a firm order for 16 brand new ATR 72-600 aircraft, reaffirming a trusted relationship that spans over two decades. This acquisition also includes an ATR 72-600 full-flight simulator, which will be the first of its kind in Africa.  This order is the largest one from an African operator in ATR history.

Air Algérie, ATR’s largest customer in Africa, has been operating ATR aircraft since 2003, with previous acquisitions in 2008 and 2014 and currently operates 12 ATR 72-500s and 3 ATR 72-600s.

Deliveries of the new aircraft are scheduled between 2026 and 2028.

The new 72-seater ATR 72-600s will be operated by a newly created regional subsidiary of Air Algérie called Domestic Airlines.

In Quotes

Hamza Benhamouda, Chief Executive Officer of Air Algérie, commented:

“The ATR 72-600 is the right aircraft to help us connect all regions of our country and support national development through reliable and efficient air transport. Its performance on short and thin routes makes it an essential part of our strategy while its fuel efficiency also supports our goal of reducing emissions and building more sustainable operations. By investing in this new fleet and the first ATR 72-600 simulator in Africa, we are also reinforcing our commitment to regional connectivity, operational excellence, and the future of regional aviation in Algeria.” 

Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer of ATR, added:

“This order is a powerful endorsement of the ATR 72-600’s capabilities and the value it brings to foster regional connectivity. With its exceptionally low operating costs, fuel efficiency, and ability to perform reliably in diverse and demanding environments like the Algerian climate, the ATR 72-600 is uniquely suited for low-density routes and remote regions. These advantages are precisely why Air Algérie continues to place its trust in ATR after more than 20 years of partnership – our aircraft consistently delivers the performance and adaptability needed to connect communities and support sustainable regional growth.”

Building out regional capacity

For Air Algérie, it has found equipment that works for its domestic flying operation, with both ATR72-500 and ATR72-600s in use currently. With 16 aircraft being delivered between 2026 and 2028, as well as launching a new brand (if a descriptive name) for its domestic operation.

With them adding an ATR72-600 simulator (to be installed in Air Algérie’s existing training centre), it will drive pilot training capabilities and drive passenger growth (especially if they choose to remove just the ATR72-500s – giving them a fleet of 19 ATR72-600s. 

For ATR – it’s another win as they seek to ramp up production and consolidate the 72-seater market. Given the trust they’ve built with Air Algérie, it’s a fruitful partnership for both companies.