Microsoft Flight Simulator Team has released the first aircraft in a brand-new series of highly authentic and accurate aircraft called ‘Expert Series’.
The ATR 42-600 and ATR 72-600 are released together in a bundle and provide an authentic aviation experience. ATR, short for Regional Transport Aircraft, was formed through the combined efforts of Aerospatiale (known as Airbus today) and Aeritalia (now known as Leonardo). The ATR family has been used worldwide for transporting passengers, cargo flights and military operations.
The ATR 42-600 twin-engine commuter airliner can seat up to 50 passengers. It took its first flight in March 2010 and was introduced into service in late 2012. It features an advanced glass cockpit, a spacious cabin and is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127XT-M engines, each delivering 2,400shp to a six-bladed propeller. Although the ATR was not designed for STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) operations, it sports excellent short-field and high-altitude performance with a take-off run of 3,631ft at sea level when fully loaded.
The ATR 42-600 for Microsoft Flight Simulator comes with three liveries:
- ATR House Livery F-WWLY
- Air Saint Pierre F-ORLB
- Silver Airways N405SV.
The 72-600 is a stretched variant of the ATR 42 with an improved cabin design and an advanced multi-panel glass cockpit. Introduced into service in 2010, it can carry up to 78 passengers. While primarily serving as a regional passenger carrier, it has also been operated by various military forces for maritime patrol and logistical support. The 72-600 is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127XT-M turboprop engines that each deliver 2,750shp to a six-bladed propeller.
The ATR 72-600 for Microsoft Flight Simulator comes with five liveries:
- ATR House Livery F-WWEY
- Silver Airways N703SV
- Air Tahiti “RA’IREVA” F-ORVV
- Air Tahiti “TAPUATA” F-ORVR
- Air Tahiti “TE ANUANUA” F-ORVT.
The ATR 42-600 and 72-600 planes are available as a bundle in the Microsoft Flight Simulator in-game Marketplace for $19.99. More details are available on the Microsoft Flight Simulator website.
