National flag carrier Air New Zealand and world's number one regional aircraft manufacturer ATR, today announced the signature of a firm order for two brand new ATR 72-600 and options for two more. Deliveries are scheduled for the second half of 2024 and the beginning of 2025. Air New Zealand will then operate the fourth largest ATR fleet worldwide.

These additional aircraft will support the airline’s growth, further strengthening its network across New Zealand. The lowest-emission regional aircraft on the market, these brand new ATRs will be equipped with PW127XT engines, delivering an additional 3% fuel burn reduction compared to previous engine version, enabling a 45% reduction in CO₂ emissions compared to similar-size regional jets.

Air New Zealand’s General Manager of Fleet Strategy and Delivery, Baden Smith said: “Our ATR72-600s are an integral part of Air New Zealand’s domestic network. Due to New Zealand’s short range, highly connected network, the ATR aircraft are perfect in keeping Kiwis connected across the 20 ports we fly between. With demand for air travel high, particularly in New Zealand, we’re thrilled to be welcoming two new ATR aircraft into our fleet from late 2024.”

Alexis Vidal, ATR’s SVP Commercial, added: “ATR’s relationship with Air New Zealand is invaluable. Over the years, we have grown, innovated and pushed the boundaries of regional air transport together. The reason is that we make the perfect match: to thrive in New Zealand, an aircraft needs to be versatile, efficient, and therefore low-emission. It comes as no surprise that Air New Zealand operates the fourth largest ATR fleet in the world. We are truly grateful for their renewed trust.”