ATR 72-600 vs. McDonnell Douglas MD-11

The ATR 72-600, part of the renowned ATR aircraft family, is a twin-engine, high-wing turboprop airliner designed primarily for regional and short-haul flights. First flown in 1988, this model has become a popular choice for airlines operating in small markets.

ATR, the manufacturer of the ATR 72, has produced over 1800 units through 2023. The -600 variant is the latest model to be designed, making its first flight in 2007. Compared to the smaller ATR 42, the ATR 72 has a longer fuselage and wider wingspan. At 27.2 meters (89.1 feet) from nose to tail and a width of 27.1 meters (88.7 feet), the ATR 72-600 is characterized by its compact and efficient design, suitable for operations at smaller airports. It has a max takeoff weight of 23,000 kg (50,706 lbs), and a max payload of 7,400 kg (16,313 lbs). The ATR 72-600 is powered by two engines, delivering a total output of 3692 kW (4,950 shp), providing reliable performance for its operational requirements. It has a fuel capacity of 6,400 liters (1,691 US gallons), which contributes to its range of 1,528 kilometers (825 nautical miles). With a cruise speed of 510 km/h (317 mph), the ATR 72-600 offers an efficient travel option for regional airlines, connecting smaller communities and cities.

In the regional aviation sector, the ATR 72-600 competes with aircraft like the Bombardier Q400 and Embraer E-Jets. Its advantage lies in its operational cost-effectiveness, making it an appealing choice for airlines serving regional routes with moderate passenger volumes. Airlines such as Air New Zealand, IndiGo, SAS, and TAROM operate the ATR 72-600, utilizing its capabilities to serve regional networks. These carriers value the aircraft for its ability to provide efficient, reliable service on shorter routes, which are crucial for maintaining regional connectivity. The introduction of the ATR 72-600 to the market was driven by the need for an economical, versatile aircraft that could effectively serve the regional aviation segment. Its operational role has been defined by its capacity to offer cost-efficient solutions for airlines operating on less dense routes.

Today, the ATR 72-600 remains a significant player in the regional aircraft market, demonstrating its continued relevance in connecting smaller cities and communities.

The McDonnell Douglas MD-11 is a wide-body, tri-jet airliner, recognized for its extended range and enhanced capabilities in long-haul commercial aviation. As a successor to the iconic DC-10, the MD-11 incorporated advanced technology and design improvements, making it a significant model in the evolution of wide-body aircraft. The MD-11 took its maiden flight in 1990, and was produced until the turn of the 21st century. There are no MD-11s servicing passenger flights today, but some MD-11 are still being used for freight operations with FedEx, UPS, and Western Global Airlines.

With a length of 61.6 meters (202.1 feet), the MD-11 is notably longer than the DC-10, which provided increased passenger and cargo capacity. This extension in length was complemented by a wingspan of 52.0 meters (170.5 feet), which included winglets for improved aerodynamic efficiency. The MD-11's was equipped with GE CF6-80C2s or PW4000 turbofan engines, which delivered a total maximum thrust of 822.0 kN (123,000 lbf). With a substantial fuel capacity of 146,173 liters (38,615 US gallons), the MD-11 boasts a range of approximately 12,455 kilometers (6,725 nautical miles), enabling it to operate on intercontinental routes with ease.

The MD-11 comfortably accommodated 298 passengers, and could be designed to fit over 340 in a higher density configuration. The most common configurations for the twin aisle jet included 9 seats to a row (3-3-3 or 3-4-2).

In the competitive landscape of long-haul airliners, the McDonnell Douglas MD-11 was positioned as an alternative to models like the Boeing 747 and the Lockheed L-1011 TriStar. By 2004, most carriers that utilized the MD-11 for long-haul passenger routes had replaced it with the Airbus A330, A340, and Boeing 777. When Boeing acquired McDonnell Douglas in 1997, it ultimately created internal competition for the MD-11 with the 767 and 777. A lack of interest from the market also lead to Boeing cutting production for the commercial variant short, while the freight version was continued for slightly longer.

KLM, Swissair, and Delta Air Lines were among the airlines who utilized the aircraft's range and capacity to expand their international route offerings. The MD-11's operational role was characterized by its ability to efficiently serve long-haul routes, offering a blend of passenger comfort and operational economics. Some airlines like China Eastern Airlines and Korean Air had converted their MD-11 aircraft into freighters rather than selling or retiring them.

The MD-11's production and service history reflect its role as a pivotal model in the wide-body aircraft segment. Its design and technological advancements, including the use of winglets and a glass cockpit, marked important steps in the advancement of commercial aircraft design. Although its production was eventually surpassed by more modern aircraft, the MD-11 remains a notable aircraft in the history of aviation, particularly for its contributions to long-haul air travel.