Tahiti-based airline continues fleet renewal with new generation turboprop with lowest CO2 emissions per trip on regional market
ATR, the world's leading regional aircraft manufacturer, today announced the signing of an order for four ATR 72-600 aircraft with Air Tahiti, along with an eight-year Global Maintenance Agreement (GMA). Deliveries of the new aircraft are scheduled between 2025 and 2028, highlighting Air Tahiti's long-term vision and confidence in ATR's products for connecting and serving the archipelago's communities responsibly.
As a dedicated user of ATR aircraft for nearly 40 years, Air Tahiti has been crucial in providing essential connectivity to the communities in Tahiti and its islands. The airline currently operates a fleet of 11 aircraft, comprising nine ATR 72-600 and two ATR 42-600. The introduction of these new aircraft will enable Air Tahiti to address both flight frequency and capacity, further enhancing its service offering and passenger experience.
The Tahitian carrier continues to renew its fleet with new-generation turboprops that boast the lowest CO2 emissions per trip in the regional market. The GMA, ATR's flagship pay-by-the-hour maintenance package, renewed for eight years, will leverage ATR's expertise as both an aircraft manufacturer and service provider to further optimise operations, enhance performance and rationalise costs. Under this comprehensive agreement, ATR will provide repair, overhaul and pooling services of Line Replaceable Units, ensuring that Air Tahiti maintains the highest standards of reliability and efficiency.
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. 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, emphasized: "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 per cent 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."
The new aircraft will significantly improve regional connectivity in the region. By linking communities, they will stimulate economic growth through increased business activity, tourism, and investment opportunities.
