First ATR freighter takes flight

ATR announced Wednesday (16 September) the successful first flight of its new purpose-built regional freighter aircraft. The flight took off at 14:00 from its Saint-Martin site and lasted two hours. During the flight, crew onboard performed a number of tests to measure the new aircraft’s flight envelope and flight performance. The first delivery of this aircraft will be to FedEx Express, the world’s largest cargo airline and express transportation company, which placed a firm order for 30 aircraft, plus 20 options, in November 2017. The new cargo aircraft will offer a large cargo door included as part of the original design and the same wide cross-section as all ATR aircraft. The freighter will be able to accommodate bulk cargo and industry-standard pallets and containers. The aircraft will also provide operators with the latest avionics suite, which can be continuously upgraded. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Kay Rolland at [email protected]