ATR 42–600

The ATR 42 is a twin-turboprop, short-haul regional airliner built in France and Italy by ATR (Aerei da Trasporto Regionale or Avions de transport régional). ATR and some Airbus models have their final assembly in Toulouse, and share resources and technology. The name "42" comes from the aircraft's standard seating, which varies from 40 to 52. The aircraft serves as the basis for the ATR 72.
On 2 October 2007, ATR CEO Stéphane Mayer announced the launch of the new −600 series aircraft at a press conference held in Washington, D.C.

The new ATR 42–600 and ATR 72–600 will feature technological enhancements to the current aircraft to increase its efficiency, dispatch reliability, low fuel burn and operating cost. It will include the new PW127M as standard engine (new engines provide 5% additional thermodynamic power at takeoff, thus improving performance on short runways, in hot weather and on high altitude; the incorporation of the "boost function" enables use of this additional power as needed, only when called for by the takeoff conditions), Glass Cockpit flight deck featuring five wide LCD screens that will replace the current EFIS (Electronic Flight Instrument System). In addition, a Multi-Purpose Computer (MPC) will further enhance flight safety and operational capabilities. The new avionics, to be supplied by Thales, will also provide CAT III and RNP capabilities. It will also include the new lighter and more comfortable seats and larger overhead baggage bins.

Using a temporary test registration F-WWLY the prototype ATR 42–600 first flew on 4 March 2010. The first aircraft was delivered to Tanzanian airline Precision Air in November 2012.

According to the ATR42 & 72 EASA Type Certificate Data Sheet TCDS A.084, Iss 3, 17-10-2012 ), "ATR 42-600" is the manufacturer's marketing designation of ATR 42-500 aircraft model with the NAS (New Avionic Suite, or 'Glass Cockpit') modification installed. The "ATR 42-600" marketing designation is not recognised by EASA as any new certified aircraft model or variant, and must not be used on ATR certified/approved documentation, where only "Mod 5948", "ATR 42-500 with Mod 5948", "ATR 42-500 fitted with NAS", or ATR 42-500 "600 version" must be indicated.