Microsoft Flight Simulator today released the first entry into a brand-new series of highly authentic and accurate aircraft called “Expert Series”. The ATR 42-600 and ATR 72-600 are being released together in this bundle and will provide an incredible and authentic aviation experience. ATR, short for “Regional Transport Aircraft,” in both French and Italian, was formed through the combined efforts of Aerospatiale (known as Airbus today) of France and Aeritalia (now known as Leonardo) of Italy specifically to create this aircraft. The ATR line has seen a wide range of uses, including commercial passenger, cargo, and military.
The ATR 42-600 The 42-600 is a twin-engine commuter airliner with a high-wing turboprop, that can seat up to 50 passengers. It took its first flight in March of 2010 and was introduced into service in late 2012. Distinctive in appearance with elegant lines and curves, it boasts thoroughbred performance in the air and can operate out of a wide variety of airfields. The 42-600 is an advanced iteration of the ATR 42, a family of regional airliners first conceived in the early 1980s. Named “42” due to the number of seats of the original version, the aircraft was designed to be a highly efficient airframe optimized for commuter lines.
The 42-600, operated by a flight crew of two, features an advanced glass cockpit, spacious cabin, and improved efficiency and performance over its predecessors. The aircraft measures 74 feet, 5 inches in length and stands 24 feet, 11 inches tall. It features a high-aspect ratio main wing with a span of 80 feet, 7 inches and a T-tail empennage. It is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127XT-M engines, each delivering 2,400 horsepower to a 6-blade propeller. The 42-600, while not designated a STOL (short take-off and landing) aircraft, has excellent short field and high-density altitude performance, with a take-off run of 3,631 feet at sea level, fully loaded. It has a range of 835 miles and a cruising speed of 345 miles per hour