ATR strengthens South American footprint with SATENA aircraft delivery
September 30, 2024
SATENA, Colombia’s government-owned airline, has taken delivery of its 11th ATR aircraft.
The delivery of the ATR 42-600, which is due to start operations in October, will strengthen SATENA’s efforts to enhance connectivity to some of Colombia’s most remote regions. Out of the 142 routes currently operated by SATENA, 83 are social routes subsidised by the government.
The aircraft will be used to bolster existing routes by increasing seat capacity across SATENA’s network to destinations including Guainía, Vaupés, Inírida, Vichada, Mitú, Puerto Carreño, and the Pacific coast. It will also boost key connections including Bogotá-Quibdó, Cali-Guapi, Medellín-Bahía Solano, and Medellín-Mitú.
“The introduction of the ATR into our fleet 10 years ago has been decisive in fulfilling our mission of fostering development and connectivity throughout Colombia,” said Mayor General Oscar Zuluaga, president of SATENA.
Underlining the reliability and versatility of ATR aircraft for its network of underserved towns and villages, SATENA’s existing fleet of 10 ATR aircraft includes two ATR 72-600, four ATR 42-600 and four ATR 42-500. The fleet also includes three Embraer ERJ-145s. The addition of the fifth 42-600 marks a milestone for the Colombian carrier as the first aircraft directly acquired from the OEM.
Zuluaga also credited the ATR 42-600’s “superior performance, unrivalled versatility and efficiency”, as criteria that met the airline’s growing demand to serve the most remote regions, while ensuring reliability, 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,” he continued.
Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, CEO of ATR echoed, Zuluaga’s comments saying that the ability to access remote destinations and connect smaller communities to major hubs is what ATR aircraft excel et. “We are delighted to see SATENA, a long-term customer of ATR expanding its fleet with our aircraft, underscoring its proven reliability and relevance for regional operations. Knowing that SATENA relies on our aircraft to bridge gaps and provide opportunities to underserved areas fills us with pride.”
