ATR, Fly91 sign eight-year maintenance pact to support regional airline’s expansion

HYDERABAD. ATR has signed an eight-year Global Maintenance Agreement (GMA) with Fly91, India’s pure-play regional airline, extending a partnership that has been in place since the carrier launched operations in 2024. The long-term agreement is aimed at supporting Fly91’s next phase of growth as it expands its fleet and network.

Fly91 currently operates four ATR 72-600 aircraft, with two additional aircraft scheduled to join the fleet in early 2026. The airline has been an ATR GMA customer since May 2024, benefitting from a comprehensive range of support services including lease stock, standard exchange and repair of line replaceable units, as well as propeller availability and maintenance.

After nearly two years of operations and with aircraft utilisation exceeding 2,500 flight hours annually, Fly91 has chosen to enhance and extend the scope of the agreement. The updated GMA is expected to provide long-term visibility on maintenance costs while ensuring consistent operational performance as the fleet grows.

Fly91 Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Manoj Chacko said the airline’s experience over the past 22 months has underlined the importance of a reliable maintenance partner, particularly in the context of global supply chain challenges. He noted that the cost predictability offered by the GMA is critical for a lean, cost-focused airline, while high maintenance standards are essential to delivering dependable service to passengers.

ATR welcomed the strengthened partnership, with Senior Vice President, Customer Support and Services, Stefano Marazzani saying the manufacturer is well placed to provide comprehensive maintenance solutions that maximise fleet availability and reliability. He added that the GMA offers airlines the cost control and operational stability needed to scale their operations sustainably.

The renewed agreement also reflects the growing momentum of regional aviation in India, as efforts continue to improve air connectivity between smaller cities. Turboprop aircraft are increasingly seen as an efficient solution for many inter-city routes, enabling new connections and bringing air travel to more communities. In this evolving landscape, long-term, cost-predictable maintenance arrangements such as ATR’s GMA are expected to play a key role in supporting airlines like Fly91 as they contribute to the next phase of India’s regional aviation growth.