ATR 72-200 Islas Airways

General Product Description

Our PlaneArts ATR 72-200 Islas Airways model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 9-10 weeks from placement of order.

The ATR 72-200 Islas Airways model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can, however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any aviation enthusiast and avid aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual aircraft.

If you require we can also make the ATR 72-200 Islas Airways model in any other airline, private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military jet, warplane jets, propeller warplanes, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimp, dirigible, blimps, boat and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.

The ATR 72-200: Islas Airways’ Efficient Regional Workhorse

The ATR 72-200 is a regional turboprop aircraft designed for short-haul flights, offering an efficient and versatile flying experience for both passengers and airlines. Islas Airways, a Spanish airline headquartered in Tenerife, was known for serving inter-island flights across the Canary Islands. The airline relied heavily on the ATR 72-200 for its regional operations, making it a crucial asset in their fleet. This article explores the specifics of the ATR 72-200 and how it enabled Islas Airways to provide convenient and reliable flights across the Canary Islands.

The ATR 72-200: A Brief Overview

The ATR 72-200 is part of the ATR 72 series, jointly manufactured by Aerospatiale of France and Aeritalia of Italy (now Leonardo S.p.A.). This series is recognized globally for its fuel efficiency, reliability, and capacity to handle short regional flights, which are perfect for the island-hopping routes of Islas Airways.

Key Specifications of the ATR 72-200:

• Passenger Capacity: 64-74 passengers
• Range: Approximately 1,650 kilometers (1,025 miles)
• Engines: Twin turboprop engines (Pratt & Whitney PW124B)
• Cruise Speed: 510 km/h (320 mph)
• Fuel Efficiency: Known for its lower fuel consumption compared to jets on similar routes, making it a cost-effective choice for airlines
• Landing and Takeoff: Designed for short runway landings, making it ideal for the smaller airports often found in the Canary Islands

The ATR 72-200’s unique design allowed it to operate efficiently on routes with lower passenger demand, giving Islas Airways a way to offer frequent service across various island destinations without sacrificing cost-effectiveness.

Islas Airways and the ATR 72-200: A Perfect Match

Islas Airways, operational between 2003 and 2012, aimed to connect the Canary Islands with reliable, frequent service at a competitive price. Its choice of the ATR 72-200 stemmed from the aircraft’s ability to operate with efficiency on short routes and its suitability for handling the challenging weather conditions around the islands. The airline chose the ATR 72-200 for several reasons:

1. Fuel Efficiency: The ATR 72-200’s turboprop engines consume less fuel than jet engines, keeping operational costs low, a major benefit for a regional airline.
2. Operational Flexibility: With its shorter takeoff and landing capabilities, the ATR 72-200 could easily service smaller airports on the Canary Islands, which often have shorter runways and require high maneuverability.
3. Passenger Comfort: Although a regional aircraft, the ATR 72-200 provided a comfortable experience, allowing Islas Airways to maintain passenger satisfaction.
4. Reduced Environmental Impact: With lower fuel consumption and emissions, the ATR 72-200 allowed Islas Airways to operate in an environmentally responsible manner, aligning with the growing emphasis on sustainability.

Performance on the Canary Island Routes:

The rugged geography and unpredictable weather patterns of the Canary Islands required a versatile and resilient aircraft. The ATR 72-200 performed excellently under these conditions, providing reliable service across islands like Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and La Palma.

The End of an Era for Islas Airways:

Unfortunately, Islas Airways faced financial difficulties and ceased operations in 2012. However, the legacy of the ATR 72-200 in their fleet left a lasting impression on travelers in the Canary Islands, and it showcased how the right aircraft could make regional air travel both affordable and convenient.

Conclusion:

The ATR 72-200 served as the backbone of Islas Airways’ operations, enabling the airline to deliver cost-effective, frequent, and reliable service to the Canary Islands. Its efficiency, reliability, and adaptability made it an ideal choice for regional routes, and it remains an iconic aircraft for those who flew with Islas Airways during its operational years. Today, the ATR 72 series continues to be a popular choice for regional airlines worldwide, a testament to the aircraft’s enduring legacy in regional aviation.