ATR will stop the development of the Short Take-Off and Landing variant (STOL) of the ATR 42-600S, the company has announced in a statement.

The firm points to a review of market conditions that it has recently carried out. “Technological advancements and future projections shows a reduced addressable market for the variant compared to the initial forecast. In Southeast Asia, for instance, the number of targeted airports requiring STOL-capable aircraft has significantly decreased, primarily because of runway extensions or the construction of nearby alternative airports, and this trend is mirrored in other key target markets” said the firm in the statement. “While this reduces the addressable market for the ATR 42-600S, it means that our current product line can operate at its full capacity”.

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Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, ATR’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “As a global leader on the regional market, ATR has a responsibility towards its customers, stakeholders and the industry at large to continuously evaluate its product portfolio to meet market demand. The decision to halt the STOL project reflects our dedication to operational efficiency and long-term sustainability.”

She continued: “As part of this commitment, we have identified a series of product improvements which aim at further reducing the costs of operations and increasing the availability of our aircraft. These improvements directly reflect the needs and insight shared with our customers. To achieve these goals, we are working closely with our key suppliers and have developed comprehensive action plans to drive progress on these enhancements. This step is essential to maintain our competitive edge, as well as our position as a trusted partner to our customers, operators and stakeholders worldwide.”

The firm will continue developments of its existing product lines.