Wing's Air to become largest ATR operator worldwide

In a move to increase its fleet Indonesian airline, Lion Air and European manufacturer ATR have signed an agreement for the purchase of 27 additional ATR 72-600 aircraft.

Once the 27 ATR aircraft, valued at US$610 million are integrated into the fleet of Lion Air’s regional subsidiary Wings Air, it will become the largest operator of ATR aircraft in the world with a total fleet of 60 aircraft.

Introducing its first ATRs in January 2010 Wing Air currently operates a fleet of 16 ATR 72-500 across its domestic network in Indonesia and plans to receive its 60th ATR 72 by the end of 2015.

Chairman of Wings Air and President of Lion Air, Pak Rusdi Kirana said their fleet brings new travel opportunities to a wider region.

“Our fleet of ATR 72s is playing a major role in the development and democratization of the aviation services in Indonesia, bringing new travel possibilities, at low rates, to an increasing part of the population,” Mr Pak Rusdi Kirana said.

“With the ATRs, Wings Air is also contributing to develop business opportunities across the country and to develop tourism in regions like Java, Bali and Nusantagara.

“The ATR aircraft are perfectly adapted to the Indonesian short-haul market and allows Wings Air to connect communities, even those located in remote areas.”

Mr Pak Rusdi Kirana said they are also assisting with the care of the environment as they have a very low CO2 emissions rate.