Lao Airlines buys ATRs

FARNBOROUGH, 13 July 2012: Lao Airlines signed off on a contract for the purchase of two ATR 72-600s, valued at US$47 million on list prices.

One of the aircraft will join the fleet November this year and another in June, 2013. Currently, Lao Airlines has four ATR72-500 aircraft.

Lao Airlines president, Dr Somphone Douangdara, said: “The acquisition of these two aircraft will help us to maintain a modern fleet and upgrade the level of onboard services.”

“We want to offer better access for the Laotian travelling public and make them feel at ease flying.”

He added: “These new airplanes will be introduced at an important stage of our country’s development to meet growing demand in transport and tourism.”

The ATR 72-600 will be equipped with new Giugiaro cabin interiors and will be powered by PW 127M engines. Also, the ATR 72-600s feature more baggage space for the passengers.

Sourced: ttrweekly