ATR and Nordic Aviation Capital have jointly delivered the first new ATR 72-600 to Silk Avia enhancing regional connectivity in Central Asia with the contract encompassing a total of five new ATR 72-600 aircraft.
ATR, the world’s top regional aircraft manufacturer, and Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC), a leading regional aircraft lessor, have jointly announced the successful delivery of the first new ATR 72-600 to Silk Avia, an airline based in Uzbekistan. This delivery marks a significant milestone in enhancing regional connectivity in Central Asia. The ATR 72-600 aircraft, delivered by ATR to NAC in December 2023, is part of an order unveiled in November 2022 during the visit of the President of Uzbekistan, Mr. Shavkat Mirziyoyev, in Paris. The contract encompasses a total of five new ATR 72-600 aircraft, with two provided by NAC and three directly by the manufacturer.
Shukhrat Khudaykulov, Chairman of the Board of Uzbekistan Airways, said “Silk Avia, which has become a part of Uzbekistan Airways Group, has set an ambitious goal to become a leader in air transportation on domestic routes of the country. It is planned to constantly expand the route network, increase the number of flights and efficiently operate them on new ATR 72-600. This type of aircraft will help to provide the necessary conditions for a comfortable flight. Moreover, our common goal, the goal of New Uzbekistan, is to make flights affordable and develop domestic tourism of the country. It will undoubtedly be achieved through flights on ATR brand turboprop aircraft.”
This delivery marks the debut of a new ATR aircraft in Central Asia. With its advanced technology, superior economics, and exceptional versatility, the ATR 72-600 is poised to contribute significantly to the development of regional connectivity in Uzbekistan and its neighboring countries. Silk Avia, now a part of Uzbekistan Airways Group, will integrate these brand-new aircraft into its existing ATR fleet, bolstering the airline’s capacity to serve a broader range of destinations and meet the escalating demand for efficient and environmentally friendly regional air travel.
Norman C.T. Liu, President & CEO, NAC said, “We welcome Silk Avia, part of the Uzbekistan Airways Group, as a customer and are pleased to deliver the first new ATR 72-600 to the airline.”
Established on July 6, 2021, Silk Avia is now a subsidiary of Uzbekistan Airways Group. The airline’s fleet primarily consists of ATR 72-600 medium-haul passenger aircraft, known for their cost-effectiveness and environmental friendliness. Silk Avia aims to connect all regions of Uzbekistan, serving both popular destinations and reviving long-forgotten routes to promote regional development and tourism.
Alexis Vidal, SVP Commercial, ATR said, “We warmly welcome Silk Avia to the ATR family. Their selection of the ATR 72-600 marks an important step as we begin operations in the promising market of Uzbekistan and wider Central Asia. Silk Avia will play a pioneering role in demonstrating the huge benefits affordable and low-emission regional aviation can deliver to this dynamic region. Our advanced ATR 72-600 turboprops are the ideal solution to connect communities and energise the national economy through their efficiency and flexibility. I look forward to following their progress and growth for many years to come.”
NAC, recognized as the global leader in regional aircraft leasing, is expanding its presence into larger narrowbody aircraft while leveraging its world-class asset management platform.
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Overall, the successful delivery of the new ATR 72-600 to Silk Avia represents a significant step forward in enhancing regional connectivity in Central Asia, supporting economic growth, and promoting sustainable air travel in the region.
Question – What is the significance of this delivery?
Answer – This marks the first ATR 72-600 aircraft in Central Asia, aiming to boost regional connectivity.
Question – What are the benefits of the ATR 72-600 for Silk Avia?
Answer – The ATR 72-600 offers fuel efficiency, environmental friendliness, and the ability to serve a wider range of destinations for Silk Avia.
Question –What is Silk Avia’s goal with the new ATR 72-600s?
Answer – Silk Avia aims to become a leader in domestic Uzbekistan air travel, expanding its network and making flights affordable.
