14 June 2019: Collins Aerospace launches a new propeller cost of ownership programme for operators of ATR 42 and ATR 72 turboprop aircraft to reduce average fleet operating costs by up to 20 per cent. The programme that is designed for the 568F six-blade propeller by Collins Aerospace consist of lifecycle technology upgrades as well as an expanded field support.
Collins Aerospace crafted the solution for ATR operators, based on over 30 million flight hours of 568F propeller service experience, intensive research, field data collection including direct feedback from operators and technology investments With the help of the programme, Collins Aerospace will incrementally introduce advanced technologies and materials for the propeller in the areas of deicing, protective layers and treatment, pitch change systems and chromium-free solutions. These improvements will increase the durability of the system on wing and optimise its maintenance cost.
Furthermore, Collins Aerospace will also increase its propeller maintenance customer field support for ATR 42/72 aircraft which is equipped with the 568F through data analytics, advanced diagnostic and additional training capacity. Specific tools to collect data, monitor the progress of the cost of ownership programme in real time, foster best line maintenance practices and make it easier to integrate the voice of the customer in product design will be developed by the new customer care team.
"This programme provides the more than 900 ATR 42/72 aircraft in over 100 countries world-class maintenance services and customer support, and demonstrates our commitment to achieving the best possible cost of ownership for our systems," said Jean-Francois Chanut, general manager for Propeller Systems. "It supports ATR's efforts to make turboprops the most economical and sustainable choice for operators, and we're very proud of our collaboration with them."