Program includes technology upgrades, expanded field support for more than 900 ATR aircraft in over 100 countries

FIGEAC, France (June 13, 2019) – Operators of ATR 42 and ATR 72 turboprop aircraft now have access to a new propeller cost of ownership program from Collins Aerospace Systems that is designed to reduce average fleet operating costs by up to 20 percent. The program for the 568F six-blade propeller made by Collins Aerospace, a unit of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX), includes lifecycle technology upgrades as well as expanded field support.

Based on more than 30 million flight hours of 568F propeller service experience, field data collection including direct feedback from operators, intensive research and technology investments, Collins Aerospace crafted the solution for ATR operators to address the competitive environment of regional turboprops today. Under the program, Collins Aerospace will incrementally introduce advanced technologies and materials for the propeller in the areas of deicing, protective layers and treatment, pitch change systems and chromium-free solutions. These enhancements will increase the system’s durability on wing and optimize its maintenance cost.

In addition, Collins Aerospace will increase its propeller maintenance customer field support for ATR 42/72 aircraft equipped with the 568F through data analytics, advanced diagnostic and additional training capacity. The new customer care team will develop specific tools to collect data, monitor the progress of the cost of ownership program in real time, foster best line maintenance practices and make it easier to integrate the voice of the customer in product design.

“This program provides the more than 900 ATR 42/72 aircraft in over 100 countries world-class maintenance services and customer support, and demonstrates our commitment to achieving the best possible cost of ownership for our systems,” said Jean-Francois Chanut, general manager for Propeller Systems. “It supports ATR’s efforts to make turboprops the most economical and sustainable choice for operators, and we’re very proud of our collaboration with them.”

In March, Collins Aerospace broke ground on a new Propeller Center of Excellence at its facility in Figeac, France. The new center will support advanced design, engineering, testing, manufacturing and maintenance capabilities for the next generation of propeller technologies, including the new cost of ownership program for ATR.