Iran Air took delivery of its first four ATR 72-600s. ATR and Iran Air finalised a firm contract for 20 ATR 72-600s and options for a further 20 only last month. Deliveries of the 20 firm aircraft will extend until the end of 2018.

Following the relief of international sanctions on Iran, there is a major need to modernise and develop air transportation to boost local economies throughout the country and improve connectivity between the regions, ATR said in a statement.

Iran relies on a strong domestic infrastructure, that numbers 60 airports that the ATRs are fully capable of serving. The ATR 72-600 is capable of serving challenging environments, including small airfields, unpaved runways and mountainous regions.

The ATR 72-600 is expected to form the core of the regional aircraft of the Iran Air fleet and will substantially contribute to the expansion and development of the services provided by the national airline across the country.

Christian Scherer, ATR’s chief executiuve, said: “There are still historical moments in aviation, and this is one of them. We are proud and gratified that our ATR aircraft are providing the solution to Iran’s significant needs in regional connectivity. As Iran’s travelling public gains access to increased supply of air transportation, it will benefit from the highest standards of comfort, efficiency and reliability with the ATR´s we are delivering today and over the coming months. We salute Iran Air for their choice in our favour and the tremendous role they play in their country.”

Iran Air CEO, Farhad Parvaresh, said: “Our new fleet of ATR 72-600s showcases our will to provide newest generation aircraft to our customers, therefore ensuring comfort, reliability and competitiveness. Strengthening the links between all our communities will encourage new business opportunities for everyone.”