Haifa's new airport welcomed its first Air Haifa flight yesterday, featuring the ATR-72-600, a smaller aircraft with propellers that has drawn mixed reactions online. While some may have been reminded of older planes, this modern aircraft is a technologically advanced and efficient choice for the airport's shorter runway.
The ATR-72-600, manufactured by the Franco-Italian company ATR, is designed for short and medium-haul flights. The Haifa airport's runway, measuring only 1,326 metres, necessitates the use of smaller aircraft, making the ATR-72-600 a suitable option. For comparison, Ben Gurion Airport's main runway is a substantial 4,062 metres long, capable of handling larger aircraft like the Boeing 767-300, used by the Prime Minister.
The ATR-72-600 is powered by two turboprop engines, renowned for their fuel efficiency and quiet operation. Despite their resemblance to older propeller engines, these modern engines are significantly quieter and more efficient, making them ideal for shorter distances.
The aircraft boasts a comfortable cabin with 78 seats and a legroom of 76 cm. While it lacks individual entertainment systems, this is not considered a major drawback for shorter flight durations. The ATR-72-600 can reach a maximum altitude of 25,000 feet and has a range of 1,665 kilometers, allowing it to connect Haifa to various destinations in the region, including:
Cyprus: Larnaca and Paphos
Greece: Rhodes, Crete, Thessaloniki and potentially Athens
Turkey: Antalya, Dalaman, Bodrum, and Istanbul
Israel: Eilat
However, the establishment of these routes is contingent upon aviation agreements between Israel and the respective countries.
The arrival of Air Haifa's ATR-72-600 marks a significant step in expanding air travel options from Haifa. The aircraft's modern design and efficient operation offer a promising future for the airport, connecting the region to a diverse array of destinations.