FIA2024: Air Tahiti Orders Four More ATR 72-600

DALLAS — Regional aircraft manufacturer ATR announced today an order for four ATR 72-600 aircraft with Air Tahiti (VT), in addition to signing an eight-year Global Maintenance Agreement (GMA) with the Franco-Italian airframer.

The new aircraft's anticipated deliveries between 2025 and 2028 demonstrate VT's long-term goals and faith in ATR's offerings to properly link and serve the communities throughout the archipelago.

Air Tahiti operates a fleet of 11 aircraft: nine ATR 72-600 and two ATR 42-600. Photo: Simone Chellini/Airways

ATR GMA Agreement

Renewing for eight years, ATR's pay-by-the-hour maintenance program, the GMA, will take use of ATR's dual role as an aircraft manufacturer and service provider to further optimize operations, improve performance, and reduce costs.

As per the comprehensive agreement, VT will be able to maintain its aircraft thanks to ATR's provision of line replaceable unit repair, overhaul, and pooling services.

Comments from Air Tahiti, ATR

Edouard Wong Fat, Air Tahiti’s Chief Executive Officer, highlighted, "Air Tahiti has been a cornerstone in Tahiti and its islands for more than 65 years, facilitating not just travel but a better quality of life."

Fat added, "By ensuring our communities have easy access to essential goods, services, and cultural experiences, we've also helped boost the local economy and tourism. The ATR fleet has been pivotal in these efforts and it will continue to enable us to offer reliable and responsible connectivity."

Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, ATR’s Chief Executive Officer, said, "Air Tahiti's continued trust, earned over many years, is a testament to our commitment to providing the most efficient, comfortable, and low-emission regional aircraft."

"In French Polynesia, where air services are particularly vital, our aircraft, emitting 45% less CO2 compared to similar-size regional jets, are ideal for responsible travel. This region, with the shortest and one of the longest ATR flights between islands, highlights the importance of our mission. At ATR, we focus on supporting affordable regional mobility while aligning with sustainability goals."

FIA2024 LIVE COVERAGE

The 2024 Farnborough Airshow takes place July 22-26, so stay tuned to Airways for our live coverage of FIA2024 from the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre in the UK.

Be sure to follow us for live updates on all our social media channels #FIA2024.