SATENA, Colombia’s state-owned airline SATENA, and ATR, today announced the successful delivery of a new ATR 42-600 in an emblematic ceremony in Toulouse, France.
The aircraft with registration numbers FAC-1199 and HK-5442, which will land in Colombia in the coming days, will begin operations in the first weeks of October.
This milestone represents a significant step in the modernization of its fleet, allowing it to more efficiently connect the most remote regions of the country.
Equipped with the latest technology and highly efficient PW127M engines, the new ATR 42-600 will enable SATENA to expand its reach and play a greater role in the domestic market by responsibly connecting underserved towns and villages, while adding to the fleet of 12 aircraft, which includes two ATR 72-600s, four ATR 42-600s, four ATR 42-500s and two EJR-145s.
Major General Oscar Zuluaga, President of SATENA said: “The introduction of the ATR to our fleet 10 years ago has been instrumental in fulfilling our mission to foster development and connectivity throughout Colombia.
“Thanks to the superior performance, unmatched versatility and efficiency of the turboprop family, 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.”
Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, CEO of ATR, added: “Facilitating access to remote locations, connecting small communities to large urban centres and fostering trade and tourism has always been our mission, and it is what ATR aircraft excel at.
“We are delighted to see SATENA, a long-standing ATR customer, expand its fleet with our aircraft, underlining their proven reliability and relevance to regional operations.
“Knowing that SATENA relies on ATR to bridge gaps and bring opportunities to underserved areas fills us with pride. Together, we not only connect destinations, but also enable access to a world of possibilities, and it is an honour to be part of this mission.”
With the arrival of this aircraft, existing routes will be strengthened by increasing the number of seats available in destinations such as Guainía, Vaupés, Inírida, Vichada, Mitú, Puerto Carreño and the Pacific, as well as in key connections such as Bogotá-Quibdó, Cali-Guapi, Medellín-Bahía Solano and Medellín-Mitú.
These aircraft have been essential for the growth of the airline, which today operates 142 routes in 52 destinations, of which 83 are social routes, essential to guarantee mobility in remote communities.
“We will continue working to connect every corner of Colombia, providing our passengers with a safe and quality service,” concluded Major General Zuluaga.
