The ATR 72 represents one of the most successful regional aircraft in the skies today, serving as a vital link between major hubs and smaller destinations across the globe. Understanding the ATR 72 price involves navigating a complex landscape of base airframe costs, customizable options, and long-term operational considerations. This turboprop workhorse, manufactured by the Airbus-owned ATR joint venture, has become the go-to solution for airlines requiring reliable, efficient medium-haul routes. The quoted ATR 72 price is not a single figure but a starting point for a detailed negotiation process that reflects the specific needs of each operator.
Breaking Down the Base Airframe Cost
When analysts look at the ATR 72 price, they are primarily referencing the list price of the airframe delivered to the customer's facility. This base price varies significantly depending on the specific model within the family, with the ATR 72-600 being the current standard. Recent market transactions and industry reports suggest that a new ATR 72-600 typically carries a list price in the range of $27 to $30 million USD. It is crucial to remember that this figure represents the undelivered, base configuration aircraft, and the final invoice will fluctuate based on numerous variables.
Customization and Options Driving the Final Price
A key factor that makes defining a single ATR 72 price so difficult is the immense flexibility offered during the manufacturing process. Airlines can choose from different seating configurations, ranging from high-density layouts for budget carriers to more comfortable, lower-density cabins for premium regional routes. The selection of engines, whether the standard PW127M or the more powerful PW127XT, directly impacts the price. Furthermore, avionics suites, lighting systems, and interior fittings are all add-ons that can push the total cost well above the base airframe value, easily bringing the final figure into the $35 million territory for a fully equipped model.
Operational Efficiency and the True Cost of Ownership
Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance Economics
Savvy investors look beyond the initial ATR 72 price tag to evaluate the total cost of ownership, where the aircraft truly demonstrates its value. The ATR 72 is renowned for its exceptional fuel efficiency on short to medium-haul routes, consuming significantly less fuel per seat than a comparable regional jet. This translates to lower and more predictable operating expenses. Additionally, the robust maintenance cycle of the Pratt & Whitney Canada engines and the airframe design results in high aircraft availability, meaning the plane spends more time generating revenue and less time in the hangar.
Resale Value and Market Liquidity
The ATR 72 benefits from a strong secondary market, which is a critical component of its financial appeal. These aircraft retain their value exceptionally well due to their enduring demand from regional carriers and lessors. When evaluating the ATR 72 price, operators are effectively purchasing an asset with a depreciating but stable value profile. A well-maintained ATR 72-500 or -600 can command a substantial resale price after its primary service life, offsetting the initial acquisition cost and improving the overall lifecycle economics.
The Competitive Landscape and Market Position
To fully grasp the ATR 72 price, one must view it within the context of the regional aviation market. Competitors like the Bombardier Dash 8 series and the upcoming Airbus A220-100 (formerly CSeries) represent alternative capital investments. While jets offer higher speed, the ATR 72's lower trip cost per seat mile on routes with 50-90 passengers makes it the economically superior choice for many routes. The price reflects this competitive advantage, as airlines are willing to pay a premium for an aircraft that guarantees high load factors and profitability on thin routes.
