European turboprop manufacturer ATR has received European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification for its ATR 72-600.

Flight testing of the latest model in the ATR range began in the summer of 2009.

The certification process validated several new features in the ATR design including its new glass cockpit, plus communications and flight management systems. The -600 also includes a redesigned passenger cabin.

ATR chief executive Filippo Bagnato said he was "very proud to see that the ATR 72-600 is now on the brink of entering into service".

First deliveries are due this summer to Royal Air Maroc, which has four of the type on order.

Source: Air Transport Intelligence news