Flight-testing of the upgraded ATR 42/72-600 variant is due to begin this month. The new models incorporate a Thales flightdeck avionics suite (pictured) along with higher-thrust Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127M engines, interior enhancements and increased payload. ATR head of sales John Moore says flight-testing will begin this month, with certification and service entry due in the second half of 2010. Certification of the larger 70-seat ATR 72-600 will occur first, with the 50-seat ATR 42-600 following.

ATR 72-600
 © ATR

ATR-600 cockpit
 © ATR

Source: Flight International