Air Algérie orders 16 ATR 72-600s for newly unveiled regional airline
Air Algérie, Algeria’s flag carrier, has placed an order for 16 new ATR 72-600s, with plans to deploy the new aircraft to a recently unveiled new regional airline.
Air Algérie and aircraft manufacturer ATR announced the agreement, which includes an ATR 72-600 full-flight simulator, on July 4, 2025. Both parties praised their long-standing relationship which now stretches back over two decades.
Air Algérie already operates 12 ATR 72-500s and three ATR 72-600s, having placed orders in 2008 and 2014. The airline first began flying ATRs in 2003.
Deliveries of the new turboprop aircraft, equipped with PW127XT engines and 72-seats, are scheduled to arrive between 2026 and 2028.
The newly created regional subsidiary of Air Algérie will be called ‘Domestic Airline’. Air Algérie already has three existing subsidiaries: Air Algérie Catering, Air Algérie Cargo and Amadeus Algérie.
“The ATR 72-600 is the right aircraft to help us connect all regions of our country and support national development through reliable and efficient air transport,” said Air Algérie CEO Hamza Benhamouda. “Its performance on short and thin routes makes it an essential part of our strategy while its fuel efficiency also supports our goal of reducing emissions and building more sustainable operations.”
He added: “By investing in this new fleet and the first ATR 72-600 simulator in Africa, we are also reinforcing our commitment to regional connectivity, operational excellence, and the future of regional aviation in Algeria.”
The new order is the largest from an African operator in ATR history. The ATR 72-600 simulator will be installed in Air Algérie’s existing training center.
“This order is a powerful endorsement of the ATR 72-600’s capabilities and the value it brings to foster regional connectivity,” said Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, CEO of ATR. “With its exceptionally low operating costs, fuel efficiency, and ability to perform reliably in diverse and demanding environments like the Algerian climate, the ATR 72-600 is uniquely suited for low-density routes and remote regions.”
She added: “These advantages are precisely why Air Algérie continues to place its trust in ATR after more than 20 years of partnership – our aircraft consistently delivers the performance and adaptability needed to connect communities and support sustainable regional growth.”
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The post Air Algérie orders 16 ATR 72-600s for newly unveiled regional airline appeared first on AeroTime.
Air Algérie, Algeria’s flag carrier, has placed an order for 16 new ATR 72-600s, with plans to deploy…
The post Air Algérie orders 16 ATR 72-600s for newly unveiled regional airline appeared first on AeroTime.
