The turboprop aircraft manufacturer ATR has obtained European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification for its passenger-cargo “combi” version of the ATR 72-600. The new cabin configuration of the aircraft allows combining increased cargo volume for over 19 m3 in volume and nearly 3,000 kg in weight with up to 44 passenger seats section. By replacing the forward seven rows by a cargo section which can accommodate four containers, the aircraft load-carrying capacity can be almost doubled. The combi version design is also offered for retrofit on the existing aircraft.

The delivery of the first unit is scheduled to take place before the end of the year to Airlines PNG of Papua New Guinea. Airlines PNG will take eight aircraft in a “combi” configuration.

“ATR is committed to answer to the customers' requirements, and the new “combi” configuration is part of the incremental product developments announced earlier this year at the Paris Air Show,” says Thierry Casale, ATR Senior Vice President Programmes. “With more cargo space and excellent cost-per-trip economics, the “combi” version opens a new path to develop new markets.”