The worldwide express delivery firm FedEx has recently confirmed an order for 10 ATR 72-600F regional aircraft, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing its air freight capabilities. This latest order adds to an existing agreement made in 2017, which initially included a purchase of 30 ATR 72-600s and options for another 20. ATR, the aircraft manufacturer, made the announcement on March 21, 2025, specifying that these aircraft will be delivered between 2027 and 2029.
Recently, ATR delivered the significantly awaited news: “FedEx’s decision to order additional ATR 72-600F underscores their trust in our aircraft’s performance and versatility. Our freighter variant is an essential component of the ATR family, offering significant advantages over traditional passenger-to-freighter conversions, including enhanced reliability and availability, and longer-term planning,” stated Alexis Vidal, Senior Vice-President Commercial of ATR, highlighting the robust relationship between the companies.
The ATR 72-600F, designed with a payload capacity of 9.2 tons, is tailored for efficient cargo operations. This aircraft features a large cargo door and advanced cargo loading system that can accommodate industry-standard Unit Load Devices (ULDs). These design elements enable it to interline seamlessly with larger freighters, making it ideally suited for various logistical environments. An ATR representative noted, “This purpose-built design makes the ATR 72-600F a key asset in FedEx's fleet, replacing its legacy ATRs, and helping optimize its network capabilities worldwide.”
Currently, FedEx operates more than 20 ATR 72-600s under contract, demonstrating the effectiveness of these aircraft in real-world operations. The versatility of the ATR 72-600F facilitates smooth operations across diverse climates—from the warm conditions in Miami, Florida, to the frigid temperatures of Anchorage, Alaska. FedEx’s investment in this fleet aligns with its strategy to enhance its global logistics operations, ensuring they remain competitive and efficient in an evolving market.
The story of FedEx and ATR began back in November 2017 when the two companies signed a significant contract that marked a shift in air freight solutions. The agreement was groundbreaking, as it was one of the first instances where ATR's newly constructed twin-engine turboprops would operate specifically in a cargo configuration. This was a significant development in the freight industry, illustrating the growing demand for specialized aircrafts that can efficiently handle air freight logistics.
By securing these 10 additional aircraft, FedEx is not only reinforcing its existing fleet but also signaling confidence in ATR's technological advancements and the efficiencies they bring to cargo transport. As the demand for air cargo continues to grow, this move positions FedEx favorably within the competitive landscape of logistics and supply chain management.
In conclusion, FedEx's current order of ATR 72-600F aircraft marks a crucial step in its mission to strengthen its cargo operations amidst an expanding global logistics framework. With the delivery of these aircraft projected from 2027 to 2029, the partnership between FedEx and ATR seems to promise greater reliability, efficiency, and versatility in air freight services, potentially revolutionizing the way logistics are handled on a global scale.
