New lessor Abelo plans to expand its fleet by acquiring 20 ATR turboprop aircraft, including 10 ATR 72-600 and 10 ATR 42-600S, it announced at the UK’s largest airshow in Farnborough.
The lessor signed a Heads of Agreement for 10 ATR 72-600 aircraft and confirmed an order for 10 ATR42-600 short take-off and landing (STOL). The ATR42-600 order was initially agreed by Elix Aviation, which merged with ADARE Aviation to create Abelo
The first deliveries of ATR 72-600 aircraft are expected to begin in 2023, while deliveries of ATR 42-600 short take-off and landing (STOL) aircraft are expected to start at the end of 2024.
Founded in June 2022, the new leasing company will try to become the “go-to-lessor of turboprops”.
“Abelo is a perfect partner for ATR and a force to be reckoned with in the regional aviation market. With today’s order for 20 aircraft, they demonstrate their long-term confidence in our product family and shine a light on the many opportunities that exist for operators across the globe,” Stefano Bortoli, ATR CEO, said in a statement.
ATR predicts demand for at least 2,450 new turboprop aircraft over the next 20 years, the manufacturer outlined in its latest market forecast. Currently, turboprops make up around 40% of the regional passenger fleet.
The report also indicated that Asia Pacific, China and Latin America will be the largest markets for turboprop aircraft by 2041.
