The ATR 72-500, also known as the ATR 72-212A, is an upgraded version of the earlier ATR 72-200 series. Introduced in the late 1990s and entering service in 1999, the -500 variant featured improved engines, enhanced avionics, and better hot-and-high performance compared to its predecessors.
Powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127F or PW127M turboprop engines, the ATR 72-500 offered increased power and efficiency, enabling improved climb rates and short-field performance. The aircraft typically seats between 66 and 74 passengers depending on configuration, making it well suited for regional routes linking smaller communities to major hubs.
The cockpit was modernized with updated avionics systems, improving pilot situational awareness and reducing workload. Cabin enhancements, including quieter operation and improved interior finishes, contributed to a better passenger experience. Its high-wing design and sturdy landing gear allowed it to operate from relatively short and less-developed runways.
The ATR 72-500 found strong demand across Europe, Asia, and Latin America, particularly among airlines focused on cost-efficient regional connectivity. It became a common sight at secondary airports and in developing markets where fuel efficiency and operating economics were critical.
Although later succeeded by the ATR 72-600, the ATR 72-500 remains in service with numerous operators worldwide. Its combination of reliability, efficiency, and practical design cemented its place as one of the most successful regional turboprops of its generation.
Development
Designed based off of the ATR 42, the ATR 72-500 is bigger, has a larger storage capacity, and can easily fit more passengers. The stretched aircraft was first announced in 1986, but the plane didn’t receive its airworthiness certification until 1989.
The ATR 72 and the ATR 42 share many of the same components, making production and support after production easy.
Orders and Deliveries
Just a month after this aircraft received its airworthiness certification, Finnair introduced the ATR 72-500 into service. They sold their first aircraft in China in 1997 to China Xinjiang Airlines. The Italian Air Force used the ATR 72-500 MP for a maritime patrol aircraft.
After the success of the ATR 72-500, the ATR 72-600 was quickly developed. This aircraft was designed to perform not only civil functions, but also to be used in a military capacity, as well.
Design
The powerful dual engines on this aircraft power Hamilton Standard propellers. There is a carbon-fiber tip wing box that helps with wing weight reduction. Additionally, the plane doesn’t feature an auxiliary power unit. Most operators of this type of plane have a propeller break that allows for turbine use and electrical power when grounded.
Most of the configurations of this aircraft have the passengers boarding the plane through a rear door, which is fairly unusual for this type of aircraft.
Flight Deck
The flight deck on the ATR 72-500 is advanced for its time, but does not have all of the updated equipment that modern flight decks do. There is room in the cockpit for both the pilot and the copilot.
Cabin
The cabin of the ATR 72-500 has been designed to ensure that passengers aren’t exposed to a lot of noise when flying. Noise attenuation, as well as attention to detail to provide maximum comfort make this cabin a pleasure to ride in. Using absorbent carpets and panels, as well as advanced materials, ensure that passengers will remain comfortable.
Additionally, the cabin has additional overhead bins so that passengers can easily store their on-board items. These bins can easily accommodate items that are up to 2 m long without difficulty, which is improved over other similar aircraft. A handrail in the cabin makes it easier for both crew and passengers to move along the cabin. The cabin volume is 3,270 f3, and the baggage volume is 486 f3. This plane can accommodate a maximum of 78 passengers.
Engines
The engines on the ATR 72-500 are PW127 engines. Each aircraft has two engines, which have been designed and specifically chosen to help improve take off and landing. They provide great performance even when the weather is very hot and the plane is at maximum altitude.
The Pratt & Whitney Canada engines have take-off power of 2,160SHP. The take-off power of one engine is 2,400SHP.
This aircraft requires 1165 m for take off, but just 964 m for landing. This makes it a great option for landing on smaller strips. It has a maximum take-off weight of 18,600 kg.
Once the ATR 72-500 has reached its maximum cruising speed, then it will be flying at 556 km/h. It has an impressive range of 2065 miles.
Landing Gear
Like most other similar aircraft, this airplane relies on powerful tricycle retractable landing gear. They fold in and out of the plane during take off and landing to provide a safe experience on the strip.
Competitors
One of the main competitors of the ATR 72-500 is the Bombardier Dash-8 300 series. It has roughly the same capacity and is a twin-turboprop craft. Another option is the Saab 2000.
Operating Cost
The average operating cost per block hour depends heavily on how much the plane is used per year. If the plane is only flown around 100 hours, then the total hourly cost is much higher than the average medium turboprop plane, and around $6654. This decreases to around $2879 per hour when the plane is flown an average of 1000 hours a year.
