Air New Zealand receives first ATR 72-600 airliner

Air New Zealand took delivery of its first ATR 72-600 aircraft, which is painted in striking all black livery, as part of the airline’s support for New Zealand’s national rugby team, the All Blacks. The airline and ATR announced in October 2011 a contract for seven firm 68-seat ATR 72-600 aircraft, plus options for another five, in a deal worth more than US $270m. Deliveries of the seven firm ATR 72-600s are due to be completed in 2016. This first ATR 72-600, configured with 68 seats, is scheduled to enter service early in November, with a first flight between Christchurch and Wellington. The new aircraft features the brand new Armonia cabin interior, with improved seating and larger overhead luggage bins. Air New Zealand currently has a fleet of eleven ATR 72-500 aircraft in service with its subsidiary Mount Cook.