08:46 GMT, September 14, 2009 Thailand’s RTAF (Royal Thai Air Force) today took delivery of its first ATR 72-500 from a contract that was signed in 2007 for four ATR 72 VIP aircraft. This first ATR features a state-of-the-art VIP cabin interior and will be dedicated to the transport of the Thai Royal Family, as well as other Government and military officials.

The aircraft is powered by two PW 127M engines, and is equipped with ATR’s optional front passenger door. The remaining three ATR 72-500s will be delivered before the end of the year.

ATR aircraft have been operating in Thailand since 1990, with three airlines, Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways and PB Air, currently operating ATR 72s. The aircraft delivered today is the first being ordered by the Government.

Stéphane Mayer, Chief Executive Officer of ATR, declared: “We are confident that these specifically designed VIP ATR aircraft will fulfill the transportation needs of the highest authorities in Thailand”.

He also underlined “the importance of the strong support base of ATR in South East Asia, which is definitely contributing to our continued success in this part of the world. Airlines, as well as Governments, know they can count on our expertise and our proximity to efficiently operate their ATR fleets.”

Commenting on ATR presence in South East Asia, he added: “Our support facilities include the Asian ATR Training Center (AATC), located in Bangkok and equipped with two Full Flight Simulators, enabling us to provide high qualified training courses to pilots and engineers throughout the region. In addition, we rely on ATR Eastern Support (AES) in Singapore for spares and technical support to all our operators in Asia and the Pacific.”


The ATR –500 series

With its ATR 42-500 and ATR 72-500, ATR supplies state-of-the-art aircraft with the highest standards of comfort. The advanced six-blade propeller provides remarkably low noise levels. All ATR models are compliant with noise regulations and have a large margin with regard to Chapter IV (ICAO) regulations. The ‘-500 series’ feature the lowest fuel consumption per passenger and CO2 emissions of the regional aviation, thus contributing to make ATR the “Green Player” of the regional aviation.