ATR 42-300

The ATR 42‑300, introduced in 1984, is the first production model of the ATR 42 family, a regional turboprop developed jointly by Aerospatiale (now Airbus) and Aeritalia (now Leonardo) under the ATR brand. Designed to replace aging short‑haul aircraft such as the Fokker F27, the 42‑300 entered service with French carrier Air Inter and quickly spread to operators across Europe, Africa and the Americas. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW120 engines delivering 1,900 shp each, the aircraft cruises at 265 kt (490 km/h) and can accommodate 42‑48 passengers in a single‑aisle cabin with a 2‑2 layout. Its high‑mounted, unswept wing and robust landing gear enable operations from gravel or unpaved runways, while modern avionics and a glass cockpit introduced in later upgrades improve situational awareness. The 42‑300’s fuel efficiency, low operating costs and short field performance made it a workhorse for regional airlines, fostering connectivity in remote markets and supporting the growth of short‑haul networks. Although newer variants have supplanted it, the ATR 42‑300 remains a milestone that demonstrated the commercial viability of turboprop regional transports and helped cement ATR’s reputation as a leading manufacturer in the sector.

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