Bangkok Airways Takes Delivery of First of Nine ATR 72-600s

Bangkok Airways has taken delivery of its first ATR 72-600.

The new ATR will join Bangkok Airways' existing fleet of ATR 72-500s, and marks a key milestone in the carrier's development as it plans to take delivery of nine new ATR aircraft from now until 2017.

The 70-seat ATR 72-600s are equipped with a new full-glass cockpit and feature larger overhead bins.

Captain Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, President of Bangkok Airways, said, “Today's delivery is part of Bangkok Airways' strategy of matching our growing network and frequency requirements with the right aircraft. Choosing ATR for our regional operations is a logical step. The ATR aircraft has the lowest seat-mile cost in its class, is ideally suited for regional and domestic operations, and enables us to provide the highest level of comfort and service to our customers. By focusing on quality service and comfort, Bangkok Airways does its utmost to ensure the best passenger experience and these improvements on the new ATR 600s' well in line with this strategy.”

There are currently more than 300 ATR aircraft in operation in Asia Pacific, flying the colors of more than 50 airlines.

ATR 72-600

Passenger capacity: 68 to 74 seats
Engines: Pratt & Whitney 127M
Maximum takeoff power: 2,750 horsepower per engine
Maximum takeoff weight: 23,000 kg
Maximum load: 7,500 kg
Maximum flight range when fully loaded: 900 nautical miles (1,665 km)