Colombian government-owned airline SATENA and world leader in regional aviation ATR, have announced the successful delivery of a brand new ATR 42-600, set to start operations at the beginning of October.

Equipped with the latest technology and bolstering the lowest cost per trip in its category, the new ATR 42-600 will enable SATENA to expand its reach and play a more significant role in the domestic market by connecting underserved towns and villages responsibly. Joining a fleet of 10 ATR aircraft, including two ATR 72-600, four ATR 42-600 and four ATR 42-500, the addition of this ATR 42-600 into SATENA’s fleet marks a significant milestone as it is the first directly acquired from ATR by the airline.

“The introduction of the ATR into our fleet 10 years ago has been decisive in fulfilling our mission of fostering development and connectivity throughout Colombia. Thanks to their superior performance, unrivalled versatility and efficiency, ATR aircraft have proven to be the perfect ally in our quest to reach the most remote regions, ensuring reliable operations, optimal fuel efficiency, and the ability to land on short runways. This strategic choice reaffirms our commitment to serving the diverse needs of our communities, for a more connected and prosperous Colombia.” said Mayor General Oscar Zuluaga, President of SATENA.

Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, CEO of ATR, added: “Granting access to remote places, connecting smaller communities to major hubs, and facilitating business and tourism has always been our mission, and what ATR aircraft excel at. We are delighted to see SATENA, a long-term customer of ATR, expanding its fleet with our aircraft, underscoring its proven reliability and relevance for regional operations. Knowing that SATENA relies on our aircraft to bridge gaps and provide opportunities to underserved areas fills us with pride. Together, we are not just connecting destinations, we are enabling access to a world of possibilities, and that is a mission we are honoured to be a part of.”

With the arrival of this aircraft, existing routes will be strengthened by increasing the number of available seats to destinations such as Guainía, Vaupés, Inírida, Vichada, Mitú, Puerto Carreño, and the Pacific coast, as well as key connections like Bogotá-Quibdó, Cali-Guapi, Medellín-Bahía Solano, and Medellín-Mitú. ATR aircraft have been essential to the airline’s growth, which now operates 142 routes to 52 destinations, of which 83 are social routes, essential to guaranteeing mobility in remote communities.

SATENA’s ATR fleet is covered by a Global Maintenance Agreement, including lease stock and standard exchange of line replaceable units, along with propeller blades repair services.