ATR (Avions de Transport Régional) has launched an Ageing Structures Programme for its ATR 42 and ATR 72 aircraft to attain, in early 2005, the extension of the “Design Objective Life” for all ATR family aircraft models from the original 70,000 to 105,000 cycles. This would represent, with an average yearly utilization of 2,500 flight hours, an “economic life” of over 40 years.
The advanced and performance related criteria adopted by ATR designers during the aircraft design phase led to an aircraft with a light-weight airframe, high structural integrity and outstanding performance in terms of durability and low maintenance costs.
The program was launched as a result of the work undertaken by ATR airframe engineers, working with customers and Airworthiness Authorities, which has demonstrated the excellent resistance to ageing of the ATR airframe. The world-wide ATR fleet in operation has reached the 12 million flight hours mark.
Luigi Lombardi, ATR Senior Vice President Operations, declared: “This initiative is in line with the ATR policy to invest in the product and provides significant benefits with regard to maintenance costs and residual values of our products”.
This life extension program will further improve the economic and operational performance of the aircraft by extending overhaul intervals, thus reinforcing ATR’s leading position in the regional transport market from both the investor and airline point of view.
This program has been submitted for approval to the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC). A Structure Task Group has been formed with the participation of 12 Airlines and 5 Aviation Authorities worldwide. This group will supervise the development of program activities in accordance with certification rules.
Toulouse-based ATR is the world leader in the 50 to 70-seat turboprop market. ATR is an equal partnership of Alenia Aeronautica and EADS (European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company).
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ATR is Working on a “Life Extension” Program of its Aircraft
