Air Algérie orders 16 ATR 72-600 to launch new regional airline
Air Algérie has placed a landmark order for 16 ATR 72-600 aircraft, destined for a new regional airline.
Announced on July 4, the deal marks the largest ATR purchase by…
July 4, 2025
Air Algérie has placed a landmark order for 16 ATR 72-600 aircraft, destined for a new regional airline.
Announced on July 4, the deal marks the largest ATR purchase by any African carrier in the manufacturer’s history.
The agreement includes Africa’s first-ever ATR 72-600 full-flight simulator, marking a significant milestone in regional aviation training on the continent.
Speaking on the order, Hamza Benhamouda, CEO of Air Algérie, said the aircraft would “help us connect all regions of our country and support national development through reliable and efficient air transport.”
He added that the investment also signals Air Algérie’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact, with the new fleet powered by the latest generation PW127XT engines, which offer lower fuel burn and maintenance costs.
Deliveries of the new 72-seat turboprops will begin in 2026 and continue through to 2028.
Domestic Airlines: Air Algérie’s new regional subsidiary
The new ATR fleet will be operated by Domestic Airlines, a newly created regional subsidiary of Air Algérie. The carrier is designed to strengthen domestic connectivity, particularly in Algeria’s vast and underserved southern regions.
The subsidiary will be formed by integrating Tassili Airlines, formerly a subsidiary of Sonatrach, into Air Algérie’s operations.
The integration process is underway following a directive from President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.
The creation of Domestic Airlines will give Air Algérie a dedicated platform to focus on short-haul, point-to-point connections between smaller communities, echoing regional airline models seen in markets such as Canada and Australia.
Why the ATR 72 is perfect for Air Algérie
The order deepens a relationship between Air Algérie and ATR that spans more than 20 years. The airline currently flies 12 ATR 72-500s and three ATR 72-600s, and has cited the aircraft’s performance, fuel efficiency and short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities as key advantages in operating challenging low-density routes.
“With its exceptionally low operating costs, fuel efficiency, and ability to perform reliably in diverse and demanding environments like the Algerian climate, the ATR 72-600 is uniquely suited for low-density routes and remote regions,” says Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer of ATR. “These advantages are precisely why Air Algérie continues to place its trust in ATR after more than 20 years of partnership.”
But it’s not just about aircraft. As part of the deal, Air Algérie will also install an ATR 72-600 full-flight simulator in its existing training centre; a first for Africa. This addition is expected to significantly enhance local pilot training capacity, allowing Air Algérie to scale its operations while maintaining high safety and operational standards.
As the first aircraft arrive in 2026, all eyes will be on how Air Algérie’s regional subsidiary reshapes domestic travel in a country where flying is not a luxury but a lifeline, especially for communities in remote desert areas. With modern aircraft, in-country pilot training, and a strategic vision to connect more people, the national carrier is positioning itself as a catalyst for inclusive, sustainable growth.
