ATR 72 Virgin Australia

General Product Description

Our PlaneArts ATR 72 Virgin Australia 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 Virgin Australia 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 Virgin Australia 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: Virgin Australia’s Regional Workhorse

The ATR 72, a twin-engine turboprop regional airliner, has become a vital part of Virgin Australia’s domestic fleet, serving as a reliable and efficient aircraft for short-haul routes across the country. Built by ATR (Aerei da Trasporto Regionale), a joint venture between Airbus and Leonardo, the ATR 72 combines European engineering with operational economy—making it an ideal choice for connecting Australia’s regional centers.

Virgin Australia first introduced the ATR 72-500 into its fleet in 2011, followed by the more advanced ATR 72-600. These aircraft were initially used to support the airline’s expansion into regional and lower-demand markets where jets were not economically viable. With seating for approximately 68 to 72 passengers, the ATR 72 allowed Virgin Australia to maintain high-frequency service on shorter routes while optimizing fuel costs.

Some key features of Virgin Australia’s ATR 72 aircraft include:

• Economical fuel consumption, ideal for sectors under 1,000 km
• Quiet and comfortable cabins with advanced soundproofing
• Short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities, enabling access to smaller airports
• High-wing design for better ground clearance and visibility

Regional Connectivity and Route Network

The ATR 72 has primarily operated in Virgin Australia Regional Airlines, servicing routes across Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia, and Tasmania. Common destinations have included Brisbane to Bundaberg, Sydney to Port Macquarie, and Adelaide to Port Lincoln, among others.

These routes are critical for:

• Supporting regional economies by connecting smaller towns to major cities
• Providing convenient travel options for business and leisure passengers
• Enabling tourism to coastal and outback destinations

Thanks to its ability to land on short runways and operate efficiently at lower altitudes, the ATR 72 ensures dependable service even in less accessible areas.

Operational Efficiency

One of the major advantages of the ATR 72 for Virgin Australia is its fuel efficiency. The aircraft burns significantly less fuel than regional jets on short sectors, making it a more environmentally sustainable and cost-effective solution. Its carbon emissions per seat are among the lowest in its class, aligning with the airline’s broader sustainability initiatives.

Additionally, the ATR 72’s simplified maintenance requirements and high dispatch reliability contribute to low operating costs and fewer delays—important factors in regional airline operations.

Passenger Experience

Virgin Australia’s ATR 72 offers a comfortable and quiet cabin environment. While it lacks some of the premium cabin features found on the airline’s jet aircraft, passengers can still enjoy:

• Generous legroom for a regional aircraft
• Large windows and overhead bins
• Professional in-flight service, consistent with Virgin Australia’s brand standards

These features, combined with the convenience of smaller airports and quicker boarding, make the ATR 72 a pleasant option for regional travel.

Conclusion

The ATR 72 has proven itself as an indispensable asset to Virgin Australia’s regional operations. Efficient, reliable, and perfectly suited for Australia’s vast and varied landscape, it allows the airline to maintain strong connectivity between cities and regional hubs. Whether flying over the rugged coastline or remote bushland, the ATR 72 continues to deliver on its promise of accessible and sustainable regional air travel.