Airlines
ATR Chases New Regional Markets for Twin Turboprops
Iran war and wider geopolitical pressure stall buying decisions
ATR 42-600 in Papua New Guinea
ATR sees strong sales potential for its twin turboprop commuters in the Asia-Pacific region.

Some airlines have paused decisions over fleet replacement amid concerns about geopolitical threats to the global economy, according to ATR chief commercial officer Alexis Vidal. The regional aircraft maker had a strong start to its 2026 sales campaign with 12 firm orders for its 48- to 70-seat twin turboprops, but while closing deals may now be harder, Vidal told AIN that there have been no order cancellations or delivery deferrals.

The European manufacturer has few customers directly impacted by the Iran war, but elevated fuel costs are denting airline balance sheets globally. At the same time, ATR is investing effort to make the case for a more constructive government attitude to regional air services.

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