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EASA Grants Starlink Certification for ATR 72 Aircraft

Joe Breitfeller

ATR has introduced Starlink high-speed internet connectivity onboard ATR 72 Family aircraft following successful testing on an ATR 72-600 in the past few months, and subsequent certification by EASA.


ATR 72-600 - Courtesy ATR
ATR 72-600 - Courtesy ATR

On Tuesday (January 21, 2025), ATR announced that they will introduce Starlink high-speed internet connectivity onboard ATR 72 aircraft.  This follows several months of testing on an ATR 72-600, followed by EASA certification.  ATR’s long-standing partner Air New Zealand is set to become the launch customer for the Starlink-equipped aircraft, bringing internet to their domestic flights from 2025. PMV Engineering has developed the modification protocol for the certification of the Starlink aero terminal on ATR aircraft, which is now available as a retrofit option on ATR 72-500 and ATR 72-600s for all operators through a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC).  The compact size of the Starlink antenna makes it perfectly suited for the ATR platform in terms or aerodynamics.


Starlink is the world’s first and largest satellite constellation using a low-Earth orbit to deliver broadband internet capable of supporting streaming, gaming, video calls and more.  With the adoption of this state-of-the-art connectivity solution, ATR operators worldwide will be able to provide their customers with internet services similar to what they are used to experiencing at home.


In Tuesday’s announcement, ATR’s SVP – Engineering, Daniel Cuchet, said,


“Starlink opens up a new era for ATR, offering unparalleled levels of comfort and passenger experience in the regional market.  This achievement demonstrates our dedication to staying ahead of the curve, responding to the latest travel trends in line with our customers’ expectations, and collaborating with industry-leading partners who share a vision of excellence and innovation to transform the way people experience air travel.” 


Also commenting on the introduction of Starlink on ATR 72 aircraft, Air New Zealand’s Chief Digital Officer, Nikhil Ravishankar, said,


“We’re always looking at how new and innovative technology can deliver improved customer experiences and with the world’s largest satellite constellation, exploring in-motion connectivity on our aircraft with Starlink was a no brainer. Whether travelling for work or leisure, we know maintaining seamless internet connectivity is something that will transform the travel experience for customers. We can’t wait to bring connectivity to our domestic flights. Collaborating with ATR and the PMV Engineering team has been fantastic, and their expertise has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life.” 


PMV Engineering’s Chief Executive Officer, Eric Sperazza, added,


“We’re honoured to be the providers of such a revolutionary technology onboard ATR aircraft, sharing our expertise and solution-led approach to open up new opportunities for ATR, its customers and their passengers.    


EASA Grants ATR Starlink Certification for ATR 72 Aircraft - Courtesy ATR

The new Starlink system will also allow pilots to connect to aviation weather services, thereby enhancing flight safety through more informed decision making.  With a fully connected cabin that can already integrate USB sockets at all seats, IFE systems, high-speed internet, and a range of high-end cabin solutions, ATR expects strong interest from customers worldwide.


Air New Zealand to Become Launch Customer for the First Starlink-Equipped ATR 72-600 - Courtesy ATR


Established in 1940, Air New Zealand first took to the skies between Auckland and Sydney with a Short S30 flying boat.  Known for their warm Kiwi hospitality, the carrier currently operates a fleet ranging from Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and Airbus A320 Family jets to ATR and Q300 turboprop aircraft.  The carrier’s modern and fuel-efficient fleet has an average age of 8.7 years.  In 2023, Air New Zealand carried more than 16 million passengers across 20 different regions around New Zealand.  Internationally, the airline offers direct service to major cities across Australia, Asia, the Pacific Islands and the U.S., and through strong relationships with alliance partners, offers hundreds more destinations.


ATR is the world’s number one regional aircraft manufacturer and their ATR 42 and 72 aircraft are the best-selling aircraft in the under 90-seat market segment.  The company’s turboprop aircraft represent the optimal and most sustainable choice for regional deployment at the lowest operating costs, and offer the ability to serve isolated communities living near challenging airfields.  Thanks to the versatility and efficiency of ATR’s turboprop aircraft, they have been able to open an average of 130+ new routes annually, while delivering a 45 percent reduction in fuel burn and CO2 emissions versus regional jets.  ATR aircraft have been selected by around 200 companies in 100 countries worldwide.  The company is a joint venture between Airbus and Leonardo.


 

Source: ATR

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