Market Intelligence: -Airline Aircraft Orders

USA – New research unveiled at the ATR Regional Air Connectivity Summit (RACS) forecasts a potential demand for up to 300 turboprop aircraft in the United States over the next two decades. With over 300 aging 50-seat regional jets (RJ50s) expected to retire, manufacturers like ATR are positioning their aircraft as efficient and modern solutions to close the growing connectivity gap in underserved U.S. regions.

• Studies from Georgia Tech and Seabury Airline Strategy Group indicate a pressing need to replace retiring RJ50s, which currently serve critical regional routes.

  • Georgia Tech projects that 1 in 10 U.S. regional airports could lose scheduled air service due to RJ50 retirement.

  • Seabury’s analysis identifies over 130 underserved routes where demand remains strong but the right aircraft is missing.

• An additional 100 aircraft worth of demand is attributed to mode-shift potential, where short-haul ground travel could be replaced by new air routes under 400 nautical miles.

• ATR’s own market assessment found that 12 million additional passengers annually could benefit from improved regional air access.

• JSX, a U.S.-based public charter carrier, has signed a Letter of Intent for up to 25 ATRs. The airline plans to launch ATR operations with a premium-configured cabin product.

• Aleutian Airways will induct ATR aircraft to restore air service across remote areas in Alaska, where turboprops are often the only viable solution.

• In consultation with U.S. stakeholders, ATR is finalizing a 50-seat turboprop variant tailored for American operators. Key features include:

  • Triple-class cabin comparable to single-aisle jet interiors

  • Forward passenger door compatible with airbridges

  • High-speed onboard connectivity

  • Increased overhead baggage space

  • Modern avionics and cockpit technologies for advanced navigation

• ATR aircraft offer up to 30% lower fuel and operating costs than regional jets

• Estimated $2 million annual savings per aircraft for operators

• The manufacturer is also actively advancing sustainable aviation technology, including:

  • A hybrid-electric ATR 72-600 demonstrator planned by 2030 under the EU’s Clean Aviation program

  • Its EVO concept, a future platform that will offer 100% SAF compatibility, hybrid propulsion, and eco-designed systems by the mid-2030s

Statements

• “The U.S. regional market is at a crossroad… this is about offering a proven, efficient solution to reconnect communities and grant them quick access to economic opportunities.” – Alexis Vidal, SVP Commercial, ATR

• “Without a viable replacement, entire communities risk being cut off from the air transport network.” – Dr. Cedric Justin, Georgia Tech

• “Our analysis confirms that a modern, efficient 50-seater like ATR’s can unlock significant value for U.S. airlines and communities alike.” – Rich Scheff, Seabury Airline Strategy Group

About ATR
ATR is the world’s leading manufacturer of regional turboprop aircraft. Based in Toulouse, France, ATR has delivered over 1,600 aircraft and continues to lead in the development of efficient and sustainable regional aviation solutions worldwide.

Source: ATR