The ATR 42 is a twin-turboprop built in France and Italy by ATR (Aerei da Trasporto Regionale or Avions de Transport Régional). The name 42 comes from the aircraft's standard seating that varies between 42 and 52 passengers.
The ATR 42 was designed as a regional transport and deliveries began in 1985. The ATR 42-300 has increased takeoff and payload weights over the earlier ATR 42 models. With high-density seating, the ATR 42 can accommodate up to 50 passengers in 30-inch pitch seats. The ATR 42-300 is powered by two PW120 engines and is available as both passenger and cargo versions.
The ATR 42–300 made its first flight in 1984.