Fast-growing Indian low-cost carrier Air Deccan has given ATR its biggest new-aircraft order in years, signing lease and purchase commitments for 30 new ATR 72s, including firm orders for 15 aircraft and leases for another 15. The ATR 42 operator has also committed to leasing another six secondhand aircraft from the manufacturer.
Deliveries of the 30 new-build aircraft are to begin shortly and take place at a rate of between six and eight a year. They will eventually replace the nine ATR 42s in the Bangalore-based carrier's fleet. As well as the 30 new-build aircraft, three used ATR 42-500s and three used ATR 72-500s will be added.
ATR says it is working with Air Deccan "on a global partnership that includes the creation of a training centre to be located in Bangalore and a well-advanced concept of integrated product support".
Bombardier's Dash 8 Q400 was also evaluated, but Air Deccan said from the start of its studies that the ATR 72 was the frontrunner because of its commonality with the smaller ATR 42.
Air Deccan is a no-frills domestic operator that launched services in August 2003 serving secondary cities with ATR 42s. Early last year it committed to adding seven leased and purchased Airbus A320s, the first of which was put into service in August. Late last month it ordered another 30 of the type from Airbus.
NICHOLAS IONIDES / SINGAPORE
Source: Flight International
