Malaysia’s Firefly Takes Delivery of First Brand New ATR 72-600

Firefly, Malaysia Airlines’ subsidiary carrier, has taken ownership of its first brand new ATR 72-600.

The aircraft is the first of 20 firm ATRs, plus 16 options, ordered by Malaysia Airlines in December 2012.

Firefly currently operates 12 ATR 72-500s, and with the arrival of the new ATR 72-600s will almost triple its exclusively ATR 72 aircraft fleet, taking the total to over 30 aircraft.

With this significant fleet expansion Firefly will rapidly increase capacity on its domestic network augmenting flight frequencies on routes to key destinations in Subang, Penang, Kota Bahru and Johor Bahru.

The airline will also be able to boost its regional offering, especially Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore.

The new-generation ATR-600s are equipped with a new full-glass cockpit and seat 72 passengers.

The freshly delivered ATR 72-600 will enter into service this month. The aircraft’s first commercial flight should take place following its arrival in Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, Subang on 12 July 2013, when the ATR 72-600 takes off for Johor Bahru, Malaysia.

“We are thrilled to finally receive our new aircraft. Our exclusive ATR 72 fleet has allowed us to develop a unique high frequency network out of Subang, Penang, Kota Bahru and Johor Bahru. Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle communities, their population and economy will also capitalise on this important investment,” said Ignatius Ong, Chief Executive Officer of Firefly.

ATR 72-600

Passenger capacity: 68-74 seats
Engines: Pratt & Whitney 127M
Maximum power at take-off: 2,750 horse power per engine
Maximum weight at take-off: 23,000 Kgs
Maximum payload: 7,500 Kgs
Maximum range with full passenger load: 900 nautical miles (1,665 kms)