ATR 72-600 ETOPS 120 Certification Renewed: Boosting Regional Connectivity

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has renewed the ETOPS 120 certification for the ATR 72-600 for another two years, reaffirming ATR’s commitment to safe, efficient, and flexible regional air travel.

Understanding ETOPS and Its Importance

ETOPS—Extended-range Twin-engine Operational Performance Standards—defines how far a twin-engine aircraft can fly from the nearest suitable airport in case of an engine failure. Without ETOPS, aircraft must remain within 60 minutes of a diversion airport. ETOPS 120 doubles that distance, significantly expanding operational flexibility.

Maintaining ETOPS approval requires rigorous demonstration of system reliability, including engines, fuel systems, fire detection, electrical and pressurization systems, and navigation and communication systems. For ATR operators, often flying to regions with limited infrastructure or few alternate airports, ETOPS 120 allows longer, more efficient routes.

The certification enables more direct routes between remote destinations, reduces flight times and fuel consumption, and provides greater flexibility in network planning across oceans, mountains, and sparsely populated areas. ETOPS compliance is not permanent; it must be re-demonstrated every two years, ensuring that ATR aircraft continue to meet stringent operational standards.

A Proven Track Record
ATR first sought ETOPS certification for the ATR 72-600 in 1997 (then ATR 72-212A) equipped with Pratt & Whitney PW127F engines. Following a demonstration of exceptional in-service reliability, ETOPS 120 certification was achieved in 2000, and the aircraft has maintained this capability ever since.

This latest renewal underscores ATR’s reliability and ongoing commitment to connecting regional destinations safely and efficiently, allowing airlines to expand their operational reach with confidence.