Cambodia Airways Takes Delivery of First ATR 72-600

Cambodia Airways took delivery of its first ATR 72-600 turboprop on June 5, 2026, marking a strategic shift for the Phnom Penh-based carrier as it diversifies its previously all-Airbus narrowbody fleet to optimize regional Southeast Asian routes.

In a press release issued by ATR Aircraft, the manufacturer confirmed the delivery ceremony took place in Cambodia’s capital. The aircraft is the first of two ATR 72-600s scheduled to join the airline’s fleet this year, with the second unit expected in the fourth quarter of 2026. The turboprop is leased from Singapore-based lessor Avation PLC on a 12-year term expiring in 2038.

Fleet diversification and regional strategy

Prior to this delivery, Cambodia Airways operated an exclusive fleet of five Airbus narrowbody aircraft, consisting of two Airbus A319s and three Airbus A320s. The introduction of the ATR 72-600 allows the carrier to deploy appropriately sized aircraft on short-haul routes to neighboring countries.

By utilizing turboprops for regional connectivity, the airline plans to reserve its larger Airbus jets for longer-haul destinations, primarily focusing on routes to China. ATR noted that the 72-600 model offers a 45 percent reduction in fuel burn and carbon dioxide emissions per trip compared to similar-sized regional jets, aligning with the airline’s efficiency goals. The newly delivered aircraft is scheduled to enter commercial service later in June 2026.

Lessor portfolio expansion

The delivery originates from Avation PLC’s orderbook, which includes 15 ATR 72-600 aircraft secured through purchase rights exercised in April 2024 and March 2026. The transaction represents a new customer relationship for the leasing company.

Avation PLC Executive Chairman Jeff Chatfield stated the delivery supports the lessor’s strategy of securing predictable, recurring income through long-term leases while mitigating placement risk.

“We are pleased to have successfully expanded our fleet and delivered another aircraft from our ATR orderbook with a new aircraft on long-term lease to Cambodia Airways, a new customer. By adding a new airline customer, we further diversify our customer base and reduce concentration risk. We look forward to a long and successful relationship with Cambodia Airways. The Company now owns nine unencumbered aircraft which puts us in a strong financial position.”

AirPro News analysis

The decision by Cambodia Airways to introduce turboprops into an established narrowbody operation highlights a growing trend among Southeast Asian carriers to right-size their regional networks. Operating Airbus A320-family aircraft on short, thin routes often results in suboptimal load factors and higher operating costs. By integrating the ATR 72-600, Cambodia Airways can stimulate demand in secondary markets with lower trip costs, protecting the profitability of its core narrowbody operations. For Avation PLC, placing these aircraft on 12-year leases provides long-term revenue stability in a region where regional air travel demand continues to recover and expand.

Sources: ATR Aircraft