FedEx Express has signed a major contract with ATR to purchase 30 ATR 72-600s with the option for 20 more, with deliveries starting in 2020.
The aircraft will be the first new ATRs to be directly delivered from the factory in a freighter configuration, and will feature a brand new windowless fuselage and is equipped with a forward Large Cargo Door and a rear upped hinged cargo door.
The ATR 72-600F features a class E main cabin for cargo operations, and will support both bulk cargo and unit load device configurations.
It will have a bulk capacity of 74.6m3, and when in ULD mode, can accommodate up to seven LD3 containers, or five 88×108 or nine 88×62 pallets, and the aircraft is also equipped with reinforced floor panels.
FedEx Express president and chief executive officer (CEO), David Cunningham says: “ATR aircraft have been successfully operating in FedEx service for many years. We worked with ATR to develop this new aircraft, which include special features to help us grow our business, especially in the airfreight market where shipments are larger and heavier.”
“The 72-600F will play an important role in our global network by helping us deliver fast, economical service to small and medium sized markets.”
ATR CEO, Christian Scherer adds: “ATRs in cargo configuration deliver an outstanding service, both serving small communities and feeding larger freighters.”
“The ATR 72-600F is the only new large regional aircraft available on the market for freighter operations. We are convinced that, with its use by FedEx Express, it will become the new benchmark for regional air cargo operations.”
