Avianca majority shareholder Synergy Aerospace has purchased up to 18 ATR 72-600s for a new subsidiary in Argentina that will be rebranded Avianca Argentina.
The deal was announced today at the ALTA Leaders Forum in Mexico City. The order comprises 12 firm orders and six options, each configured with 72 seats.
“We are excited about the imminent launch of Avian Líneas Aéreas as an Avianca branded airline. We are looking forward to expanding services and linking under-served communities in Argentina thanks not only to a highly efficient and modern ATR 72-600 fleet but also the technical and logistic support of ATR/Airbus stemming from a traditional strong partnership, as well as to broaden and deepen Avianca’s network in South America," says Synergy chairman German Efromovich.
First delivery will take place before end-2016, with entry into service in the first quarter of 2017. All 12 aircraft will be in service by January 2018, says ATR. Avianca Argentina will operate regional routes to and from its hubs in Buenos Aires Aeroparque and Cordoba.
The latest order reinforces Synergy's preference for the ATR turboprop. Colombia-based Avianca operates the ATR 72-600, and Synergy yesterday announced an investment in Mexico's Aeromar alongside an order for eight new ATRs.
“The introduction of the ATR -600 series in Argentina is a major milestone in our expansion in Latin America. Argentina has great potential for the development of regional air connectivity, and we are pleased to bring the most cost-efficient, modern and comfortable solution to airlines and passengers alike," says ATR chief executive Christian Scherer.
Source: Cirium Dashboard
