Algerian flag-carrier Air Algerie is to acquire four ATR 72-500s, reinforcing a fleet which already includes eight of the type.

The carrier has secured early delivery slots and will take the 66-seat aircraft next year.

Air Algerie managing director Abdelwahid Bouabdallah says: "The ATRs allow us to open up regions not able to receive our other types of aircraft.

"We are therefore doubly satisfied to be able to provide high-quality public service and coverage over all the national territory." ATR values the Algerian sale agreement at $82 million.

Air Algerie ATR 72-500
 © ATR

While ATR is developing a more advanced variant - the -600, ordered by neighbouring Royal Air Maroc - this will not be available until 2011.

Air Algerie last month agreed to acquire seven Boeing 737-800 aircraft as part of a fleet-renewal programme.

ATR says it will assist the airline establish a training centre by aiding the installation of a new flight simulator.

Source: Air Transport Intelligence news