Myanmar National Airlines Takes Delivery of First ATR 72-600

Myanmar National Airlines (previously known as Myanma Airways), has taken delivery of its first ATR 72-600.

The airline, which operates a fleet of three ATR 72-500s, two ATR 72-200s and one ATR 42-300, had booked an order for six ATR 72-600s in 2014, along with options for six additional aircraft, in a deal valued at US$ 296 million.

With the new ATR-600s, the last of which is scheduled for delivery in 2017, the airline is upgrading its regional aircraft fleet to provide the additional seat capacity and further enhanced service required to meet the booming demand for tourism and business travel across the country.

In addition to the introduction of the newest ATR-600s, the airline is also setting up a modern MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) center in Yangon, with support from ATR. Today, there are 30 ATRs in operation across the country, flying with eight different airline liveries.

Than Tun, Managing Director of the airline, said, “We are delighted to introduce the newest ATR-600 series aircraft into our fleet and to begin offering its world-class standards of comfort to our passengers. We are upgrading our fleet with an aircraft that is proving to be outstandingly successful, particularly in Asia, and which has shown itself to be the optimal choice both in terms of operational versatility and fuel efficiency. Upgrading to the newest ‘-600s’ came naturally after having successfully operated former ATR versions for years.”

Patrick de Castelbajac, Chief Executive Officer of ATR, added, “The number of ATRs flying in Myanmar has doubled in recent years, highlighting the aircraft’s suitability for the short-haul network and for main and small airfields.”

ATR 72-600

Passenger capacity: 68-74 seats

Engines: Pratt & Whitney 127M

Maximum power at take-off: 2,750 horsepower per engine

Maximum weight at take-off: 23,000 kg

Maximum load: 7,500 kg

Maximum range with full passenger load: 900 nautical miles (1,665 km)