Franco-Italian aircraft manufacturer ATR released a series of videos showcasing the impact of regional air connectivity on local communities and industries across Indonesia.
Indonesia is the fourth most populous country in the world with 255 million people. And with the country made up of over 17,000 islands, air travel is necessary for the mobility of both people and goods.
Spanning an incredible 5,120 kilometers from east to west, Indonesia stretches further than the continental United States, while its northern to southern edges span 1,760 kilometers. This vast expanse has made regional air connectivity a crucial lifeline, connecting and unifying communities within the country.
For almost 30 years, ATR aircraft have been helping to bridge the distances between Indonesian islands, connecting local communities across the archipelago.
One of the videos produced by ATR is about Wings Air, a scheduled commuter passenger low-cost airline based in Jakarta. With a fleet of more than 70 aircraft, the airline has helped make regional air travel for Indonesians accessible. The carrier is also currently the world’s largest ATR operator.
ATR turboprops have proven to be the ideal solution for overcoming Indonesia’s unique geographical challenges. The aircraft’s short takeoff and landing capability allows it to access airports and airstrips in regional areas that other aircraft are unable to serve.
Additionally, the aircraft’s lower fuel burn and operational costs enable carriers to operate these routes more profitably. Compared to similarly sized jets, ATR aircraft burn 45% less fuel, translating into significantly lower CO2 emissions, 45% less, in fact, further enhancing its environmental appeal.
Another video highlighted how improved air connectivity enabled mountain coffee growers from the island of Flores to reach wider markets.
With connectivity enhanced by ATR, farmers can attract more buyers and command higher prices for their beans, which in turn strengthens the local economy and improves peoples’ livelihoods.
“Through the efforts of companies like Wings Air and ATR, air connectivity is transforming lives, economies, and ecosystems across Indonesia. The nation’s archipelagic nature no longer represents a barrier but an opportunity — an opportunity to explore, engage, and empower. As these communities grow closer through the power of flight, the future of Indonesia’s islands has never looked brighter,” ATR said in a statement.
The complete series of videos can be seen here.