[Avionics Today 12-8-2014] Lion Group, the parent company of Indonesian carrier Lion Air, has become the largest customer of ATR turboprop aircraft after signing a $1 billion order for 40 additional ATR 72-600s. The Lion Group is looking to use the new aircraft to meet the projected increase in passenger demand expected to occur in the Asia Pacific over the next five years.
The group will distribute the additional 72-600s among its three subsidiary airlines: Malindo Air, That Lion Air and Wings Air. Deliveries of the aircraft will occur beginning in 2017. According to the Lion Group, the Asia Pacific region now accounts for nearly 40 percent of the sales of ATR-600 series aircraft.
"The ATR-600 aircraft are very competitive, as they enable us to ensure a high frequency service. With these new generation airplanes in our fleet, the Lion Group will continue to contribute to the economic development in Indonesia, Malaysia and Asia, including remote regions as well as tourist-driven markets such as Bali, Java, Kalimantan (Borneo) and Sumatra," said Rusdi Kirana, chairman of the Lion Group.