Designing the Responsible Air Connectivity of Tomorrow

Regional aviation plays a vital role in global economic and social connectivity. Turboprop aircraft ensure accessibility to remote areas, facilitating the development of territories and enabling crucial services like healthcare and education to reach even the most isolated regions. However, as the world grapples with the pressing challenge of climate change, we understand the need to rethink how we travel. At ATR, we are at the forefront of efforts to decarbonise regional aviation and ensure more responsible air connectivity.

THE IMPORTANCE OF REGIONAL AVIATION

Regional aviation is more than just a means of transportation. It is a crucial pillar of local economies, offering direct and indirect jobs and promoting the development of related industries such as tourism and commerce. Studies have shown that a 10 per cent increase in regional flights can lead to a 6 per cent increase in local GDP, a 5 per cent increase in tourism, and an 8 per cent increase in foreign direct investment.

As the world’s leading manufacturer of regional aircraft, ATR has built almost 1,700 turboprops with 48 to 78 seats since its inception in 1981. Our aircraft are designed to be robust, capable of landing on all kinds of terrain, and cost-effective to operate for airlines, while providing comfort, safety, and cutting-edge technologies to passengers. Our aircraft operate in some of the most remote corners of the world, from the Bahamas to the Baltics, offering a lifeline to many remote communities.

ADDRESSING THE CLIMATE CHALLENGE

ATR is fully committed to contributing to the decarbonisation of aviation, along with all industry players. In January 2024, the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) validated our short-term emissions reduction targets, which include reducing absolute GHG emissions from operational processes and energy consumption by 50.4 per cent by 2030 and reducing absolute GHG emissions generated by our aircraft fleet in service by 30 per cent within the same timeframe, compared to 2018 levels.

To achieve these ambitious goals, we are investing in more energy-efficient infrastructure, renewable energy, optimised manufacturing processes, and sustainable practices throughout our value chain.

CURRENT DECARBONISATION INITIATIVES

Our current decarbonisation initiatives are based on four pillars: continuous development of our aircraft family, sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), hybridisation with the ATR EVO, and the aircraft life cycle.

Continuous Innovation. Continuous innovation is at the heart of ATR’s strategy to reduce emissions and enhance the sustainability of our aircraft. One of our most significant advancements is the introduction of the PW127XT engine. With this new engine, the ATR 72-600 burns well over 3 per cent less fuel than the previous engine series and emits 45 per cent less CO₂ per trip compared to a similar-size regional jet. This reduction translates to saving 4,400 tonnes of CO₂ per aircraft per year. Moreover, ATRs produce virtually no contrails, which are a significant contributor to climate change. With 69g of CO₂ emitted per seat per km, ATRs offer a more responsible solution than single-occupancy cars and meet the most stringent standards for external noise.

ATRs are, by design, very suited to the challenges of our time, and ambitious plans are underway to reduce emissions even further. We continuously explore new technologies and innovations to make our aircraft even more efficient and sustainable.

Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF). Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) are widely recognised as one of the quickest ways to significantly reduce CO₂ emissions in the aviation industry. SAF is a renewable energy source derived from organic matter, waste, or non-fossil raw materials. It can be seamlessly integrated into existing aircraft and infrastructure, generating about 80 per cent fewer GHG emissions over its lifecycle compared to conventional fuel.

ATR aircraft are certified to fly with up to 50 per cent SAF. In June 2022, we achieved a significant milestone by completing the first-ever flight with 100 per cent SAF in both engines of a commercial aircraft. This historic flight demonstrated the feasibility and potential of SAF to dramatically reduce the carbon footprint of aviation.

The “Book and Claim” Scheme. Given the current limitations in SAF availability and production capacity, ATR supports the development of a “book and claim” mechanism. This system is an effective way to scale up SAF deployment and accelerate the sector’s decarbonisation. The “book and claim” scheme allows airlines to purchase SAF from competitive sources worldwide, regardless of geographical proximity. It decouples environmental credits from physical SAF, reducing the need for global transportation and complexity. Airlines receive credits for CO₂ emission reductions even if the physical fuel is used by other operators at local airports near the production site. This innovative approach ensures that the benefits of SAF can be maximised and distributed more efficiently.

The ATR EVO. The ATR EVO represents our mid-term solution to significantly reduce emissions while maintaining the accessibility and versatility that are key assets of the ATR family. This hybrid electric aircraft concept combines a new high-performance thermal engine with an electric motor and batteries, aiming for a 20 per cent reduction in CO₂ emissions compared to current aircraft and improved performance. The ATR EVO is designed to deliver enhanced efficiency, reduced noise, and lower operating costs, making it an attractive option for regional airlines.

We aim for an entry into service by 2030+, marking a significant step forward in our journey towards a more sustainable future. The ATR EVO will not only help reduce the environmental impact of aviation but also ensure that remote and underserved regions continue to benefit from reliable air connectivity.

Aircraft Life Cycle. Aircraft decarbonisation extends beyond flight phases and must consider the entire aircraft life cycle, from design to dismantling. At ATR, we are committed to improving the sustainability of our aircraft throughout their lifecycle. This includes exploring new designs and materials to enhance the recyclability of our aircraft.

In partnership with TARMAC Aerosave, we have successfully recycled three ATR aircraft in 2023, and four more are scheduled to be dismantled this year. Currently, 85.5 per cent of ATR parts are recyclable or reusable, and we are actively exploring new recycling processes to increase this number in the future. Our goal is to contribute to the circular economy and reduce the environmental impact of our operations.

A COLLABORATIVE EFFORT

Decarbonising aviation cannot be achieved by a single manufacturer alone. It requires joint efforts with airlines, airports, regulators, and the entire aviation ecosystem. Collaboration is essential to drive innovation, share best practices, and develop effective solutions to the complex challenges of climate change.

At ATR, we believe that regional aviation is well-positioned to lead the industry’s transformation towards more sustainable practices. Our commitment to innovation and sustainability aims to ensure that all regions of the world remain connected and accessible, fostering economic development while minimising environmental impact.

We are actively engaged with our partners across the aviation industry to promote the adoption of sustainable practices and technologies. By working together, we can accelerate the transition to low-emission aviation and ensure a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.

CONCLUSION

As the climate challenge underscores the need for more responsible air travel, ATR is dedicated to designing the responsible air connectivity of tomorrow. Our comprehensive approach to sustainability includes continuous innovation, the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels, the development of hybrid electric aircraft, and a commitment to improving the entire aircraft life cycle.

We invite you to join us on this journey towards a more sustainable future. Together, we can ensure that aviation continues to play a vital role in global economic and social connectivity while minimising its environmental impact. At ATR, we are proud to lead the way in creating a more responsible and sustainable aviation industry.