The Italian-French based aircraft manufacturer Avions de Transport Regional (ATR) was formed in 1981, from the consortium formed by the Aérospatiale of France and Aeritalia, now Alenia Aeronautica, of Italy companies.

The first of two ATR 42 prototypes made its maiden flight on 16th August 1984, French and Italian approval (certification) followed in September 1985 and the first revenue earning flight was in December of 1985.

The ATR 72 was announced at the 1985 Paris Air Show and launched in January of 1986. This aircraft has more powerful engines, greater fuel capacity and increased dimensions compared with the ATR 42.

ATR is Number 1 in Turboprops in the 40 to 70 seat market segment. Its ATR 42 and ATR 72 have become the reference aircraft amongst airlines around the world for efficient, reliable and economic service on short-haul routes. ATR is dedicated to be the number 1 in turboprops by offering a safe, reliable, easy to maintain and comfortable turboprop aircraft to airlines operating on the regional air transport market, at a cost well below its competitors.

In April 2000 ATR delivered its 600th ATR, an ATR 72-500 to Air Dolomiti. Customer airlines include Lot, Thai, Czech, Air New Zealand, Olympic, Alitalia, etc.

The consortium has currently 570 employees. The CEO is Filippo Bagnato.

ATR planes

• ATR 42 first flight August 1984
  • ATR 42-300
  • ATR 42-320
  • ATR 42-500
• ATR 72 first flight January 1986
  • ATR 72-200
  • ATR 72-210
  • ATR 72-500