ATR breaks into Libyan market

LAVEX: ATR and Libya's flag carrier Libyan Airlines thave oday signed a contract for the purchase of 2 ATR 42-500s, which will become the first ATR aircraft to be operated in the country.

The deal, valued at some US $35 million, has been inked on the occasion of the LAVEX Air show, which is currently underway in Tripoli.

The aircraft are configured with 48 seats, and are equipped with new PW 127M engines, while featuring the very latest technological innovations in the field of navigation aid tools and passenger comfort. The aircraft are to be delivered later this year.

Commenting on the deal, Captain Mohamed Ibsem, Chief Executive Officer of Libyan Airlines, said: “We have decided to purchase the ATR aircraft because of their flexibility to operate in challenging conditions and tough environments, like the ones that can be found at some destinations in the Libyan desert.” He added: “Thanks to our brand new ATR 42-500s, we will able to improve the quality of our regular air connectivity to several local communities, thus contributing to strengthen both human and business links in our country.

"The operating costs of the ATRs, which are the lowest of the regional market, have also clearly contributed to our choice, as they will enable us to obtain an optimal exploitation, specially on low yield routes”.