The British Aerospace ATP (Advanced Turboprop) is a regional airliner designed for short to medium-haul routes, offering a combination of efficiency, reliability, and a relatively low operational cost. First introduced in the late 1980s, the ATP was developed to meet the growing demand for regional flights with better fuel efficiency compared to traditional jet airliners. It is powered by turboprop engines, making it ideal for regional operations, particularly in areas with shorter runways or where fuel costs are a concern.

The ATP’s fuselage is relatively spacious for a turboprop, offering a comfortable cabin for up to 72 passengers. It features a pressurized cabin, advanced avionics, and is capable of flying longer distances than many other turboprop aircraft in its class, with a range of over 1,500 nautical miles. Although production of the ATP ended in the mid-1990s, the aircraft remains in service with regional airlines and cargo operators, appreciated for its efficiency and performance.

Key Specifications (ATP)

• Crew: 2 (Pilots).
• Capacity: Typically 64–72 passengers.
• Length: 22.60 m (74 ft 2 in).
• Wingspan: 24.60 m (80 ft 8 in).
• Height: 7.99 m (26 ft 3 in).
• Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 21,800 kg (48,000 lb).
• Engines: 2 × Rolls-Royce AE 2100 turboprop engines.
• Cruise Speed: ~590 km/h (367 mph).
• Range: ~1,625 nautical miles (3,010 km).
• Ceiling: 25,000 ft (7,620 m).

Notable Features

• Turboprop Efficiency: The ATP’s turboprop engines provide excellent fuel efficiency for short to medium-range routes, making it cost-effective for regional operations.
• Comfortable Cabin: The cabin is designed with wider seats and increased headroom compared to many other regional aircraft, ensuring passenger comfort on medium-length flights.
• Advanced Avionics: The ATP is equipped with modern avionics, providing pilots with advanced navigation, communication, and flight management systems to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Short Runway Capability: The ATP is capable of operating from shorter runways, making it ideal for regional airports with limited infrastructure.
• Cargo Capacity: While primarily used for passengers, the ATP can also be converted for cargo operations, offering flexible configurations for freight services.

Operators & Usage

• Regional Airlines: The ATP has been used by regional carriers across Europe and other regions, especially on routes with lower passenger demand.
• Cargo Operators: Some ATP aircraft have been converted into freighters and are used by cargo companies for regional freight operations.
• Private Operators: The ATP has also been used by private operators looking for a cost-efficient and versatile turboprop aircraft for regional operations.