‍DALLAS — On July 4, Air Algérie (AH) announced an order for 16 brand-new ATR 72-600 aircraft. 

According to CH-Aviation, he new turboprops will be operated by AH’s newly established Domestic Airlines, which was created to enhance regional connectivity and serve smaller, underserved routes across the country. 

As part of the deal, the airline will also receive a training simulator, which will support crew readiness and help streamline future operations.

Air Algérie remains ATR’s biggest customer in Africa, a relationship that goes back more than two decades. The airline has been flying ATR aircraft since 2003, with earlier orders placed in 2008 and 2014. Today, its fleet includes 12 ATR 72-500s and 3 ATR 72-600s, which have become a key part of its regional operations.

This latest order not only expands that partnership but also reflects AH’s ongoing push to modernize its fleet. By choosing newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft, the airline is also taking steps to lower its carbon footprint while maintaining strong regional connectivity across Algeria and beyond.

Pratt & Whitney's PW127XT will power the new ATR 72-600. The new engine is expected to offer a 3% improvement in fuel efficiency, along with a 20% reduction in maintenance costs, and a 40% extension in time-to-wing-performance compared to the older PW127M engine.

About Domestic Airlines, CEO Comments

Domestic Airlines is a newly established subsidiary of state-owned Air Algérie, created to improve regional connectivity across the country. 

The new ATR 72-600s, set to begin arriving in 2026, will be operated by this carrier as part of a broader effort to strengthen air links between smaller cities and remote areas. The launch of this airline, along with the fleet investment, highlights a clear commitment to expanding and improving domestic air travel in Algeria.

“The ATR 72-600 is the right aircraft to help us connect all regions of our country and support national development through reliable and efficient air transport. Its performance on short and thin routes makes it an essential part of our strategy, while its fuel efficiency also supports our goal of reducing emissions and building more sustainable operations. By investing in this new fleet and the first ATR 72-600 simulator in Africa, we are also reinforcing our commitment to regional connectivity, operational excellence, and the future of regional aviation in Algeria.” Hamza Benhamouda, Chief Executive Officer of Air Algérie, commented.