The ATR-72 aircraft is a short haul twin-engine turboprop aircraft made by a French-Italian company called ATR. It was first sold in 1989 and was a larger version of the ATR-42.
It has been used mostly as a regional commercial airplane, carrying up to 78 passengers on relatively short flights. The plans have also been used as corporate airplanes, cargo carriers, and patrol aircraft. The Turkish and Pakistan Navy also use these aircraft. In early 2016 the company agreed to sell some of the planes to Iran. The airplane is used around the world as a regional passenger carrying craft, but in the United States, it is only used some by FedEx Express. It is used by American Eagle in Asia.
Some of the plans are used for both cargo and passengers. Early on the passenger door was at the rear and the one near the front was the cargo door. This created some issues at terminal gates, and some are now made with front passenger doors.
In 2002 a version was released that had a large cargo door modification and was used for cargo only. Some of the planes may be easily switched from cargo to passenger service. Company printed material says this can be done in 45 minutes.
Statistical information:
- The plane can be configured for 68-78 passengers, but 70 is the most common.
- The plane is flown by two crew members
- Cruising speed is 316 miles per hour.
- Range of travel is 949 miles with 11,000 pounds of fuel
- Service ceiling is 25,000 feet.
- The plane needs 4,373 feet for takeoff
- Maximum takeoff weight is 50,000 pounds for cargo fitted aircraft
- Typical payload on a passenger plane is 16,000 pounds.
- Empty weight 28,000 pounds
- Dimensions - 89 feet long, wingspan 88 feet, height 25 feet.
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