Will Operate Domestically And Serve Surrounding Territories

The national flag carrier Air Vanuatu has started operations of its very first ATR 72-600. The aircraft, leased from Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC), was recently delivered in Toulouse, France.

The aircraft is configured with 70 seats and is equipped with the most modern cabin interior and navigation aid tools. Thanks to the ETOPS 120 minutes capabilities (Extended Range Twin-engine Operations) of the ATR aircraft family, the new ATR 72-600 will be able to operate not only within the domestic network of the airline but to the surrounding territories of Fiji, New Caledonia and the Solomon Islands. ATR is the only turboprop manufacturer proposing ETOPS-120 certification on its aircraft, thus substantially increasing the operational versatility of the aircraft on inter-island operations.

Air Vanuatu started operating ATR aircraft in 2004 and today has two ATR 72-500s in its fleet.

“We believe that this aircraft type is the perfect complement to the airline's current fleet," said Martin Møller, Chairman of NAC. "We have great confidence in the -600 series and are pleased to play a pivotal role in introducing the latest ATR technologies to new territories.

"As an airline, we will benefit from the ATR -600’s enhanced performance, recognized fuel efficiency and lowest environmental impact in its category,” said Joseph Laloyer, Chief Executive Officer of Air Vanuatu.

(Image provided with ATR news release)

FMI: www.atraircraft.com