BAe ATP 

Introduction

The BAe ATP (Advanced Turbo-Prop) is a twin-engine regional turboprop aircraft developed by British Aerospace as a modern successor to the Hawker Siddeley HS 748. Designed to meet the growing demand for quieter, more fuel-efficient short-haul regional airliners, the BAe ATP offers excellent economics, reliability, and versatility. With seating for up to 72 passengers and short runway performance, it is well-suited for regional charters, group travel, and routes into smaller airports.

Specification of BAe ATP

• Manufacturer: British Aerospace (UK)

• Model: BAe ATP

• Crew: 2 pilots + 2–3 cabin crew

• Passenger Capacity:
  Typical: 64–68 passengers
  Max: 72 passengers

• Engines: 2 × Pratt & Whitney Canada PW126 turboprop engines

• Length: 26.01 m (85 ft 4 in)

• Wingspan: 30.62 m (100 ft 5 in)

• Height: 7.55 m (24 ft 9 in)

• Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 22,680 kg (50,000 lbs)

• Cargo Capacity: Up to 8,000+ kg (in freighter configuration or combi)

Performance and Range of BAe ATP

The BAe ATP performs efficiently on short-haul routes and at regional airports:

• Cruise Speed: 460 km/h (248 knots)

• Maximum Range: 1,760 km (950 nautical miles) with full payload

• Service Ceiling: 25,000 ft

• Takeoff Distance: Approx. 1,150 m (3,773 ft)

• Landing Distance: Approx. 1,050 m (3,445 ft)

Its performance makes it ideal for routes under 2 hours and airports with limited infrastructure.

Cabin Comfort and Interior of BAe ATP

The BAe ATP is designed for comfort on short regional journeys:

• Cabin Width: 2.93 m (9 ft 7 in)

• Cabin Height: 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in)

• Typical Layout: 2-2 seating in a single aisle

• Lavatories: 1 rear lavatory

• Galley: Forward galley for snack and beverage service

• Cabin Features:
  Quiet, low-vibration cabin due to slow-turning propellers
  Large oval windows for natural light
  Overhead bins for carry-ons and under-seat storage
  Pressurized and climate-controlled environment

Some variants have been converted into VIP or corporate shuttle layouts with fewer seats and more space.

Avionics and Technology of BAe ATP

The BAe ATP features a conventional yet robust avionics suite for safe and efficient operations:

• Cockpit: Dual analog/digital instruments

• Navigation: VOR/DME, ILS, ADF, GPS (on upgraded models)

• Flight Systems: Hydraulic controls, anti-icing, and modern weather radar

• Optional Upgrades: Some aircraft have received glass cockpit retrofits or ADS-B compliance

Though built in the 1980s and 90s, the ATP’s systems remain reliable and serviceable for regional operators.

Operational Advantages of BAe ATP

The BAe ATP offers multiple practical benefits:

• Fuel Efficiency: Lower operating costs than regional jets

• Low Noise Footprint: Complies with strict airport noise regulations

• Short-Field Performance: Operates at airports with limited runways

• Proven Airframe: Developed from the rugged HS 748 with improved aerodynamics

• Cargo Versatility: Some aircraft have been converted to full freighter or combi (cargo + passenger)

Its simplicity, comfort, and economy make it a strong choice for operators in developing or remote regions.

Who Should Charter BAe ATP

The BAe ATP is ideal for:

• Regional Group Travel: Corporate groups, sports teams, school trips

• Tour Operators: Charter flights to island or mountain destinations

• Remote Area Access: Oil, gas, and mining crews; humanitarian missions

• Government and Military: Short-haul transport and troop movements

• Cargo + Passenger Flights: Combi layouts for remote supply runs

It is a cost-effective option for short- to medium-range charters with modest passenger volumes.

Charter Cost Estimates for BAe ATP

Charter costs for the BAe ATP are highly economical:

• Hourly Charter Rate: $2,500 – $3,500 USD

• Typical Regional Charter (1–2 hours): $5,000 – $8,000 USD

• Estimated Cost per Passenger (Full Load): $75 – $150 USD

Its affordability makes it popular for budget-sensitive group charters and regional connections.

Conclusion

The BAe ATP is a reliable, quiet, and efficient turboprop aircraft designed for regional connectivity and rugged operations. Its combination of comfort, fuel efficiency, and short runway capability makes it a versatile workhorse for short-haul charter missions. Whether you're flying to remote areas, carrying a team to a match, or chartering for regional tourism, the BAe ATP offers dependable performance and solid value.