ATR 42-600 vs CRJ900
The CRJ900 leads, topping 5 of 7 compared metrics.
Cross-shopping the ATR ATR 42-600 (introduced 2012) against the Bombardier Aviation CRJ900 (introduced 2003) is a common decision, and the two sit closer on paper than the badges suggest. Both are regional, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is cabin capacity, where the CRJ900 carries more passengers. The spec-by-spec breakdown below is followed by a mission-fit read and a buyer's recommendation.
6 more specs per aircraft — ceiling, climb, cabin, dimensions and more — are free with an account.
ATR 42-600 vs CRJ900: the key differences
- The CRJ900 delivers 72% more range (ATR 42-600: 900 nm; CRJ900: 1,550 nm).
- The CRJ900 delivers 57% more cruise speed (ATR 42-600: 300 kt; CRJ900: 470 kt).
- The CRJ900 delivers 80% more passenger capacity (ATR 42-600: 50 seats; CRJ900: 90 seats).
- The ATR 42-600 is the newer design (introduced 2012 versus 2003 for the CRJ900), a gap of 9 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The CRJ900 is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (84,500 lbs versus 41,226 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
Which mission suits which aircraft
The CRJ900 is the stronger fit for regional and short-to-medium legs — its 1,550 nm of range removes fuel stops on those legs. The ATR 42-600, at 900 nm, is better matched to short-haul and regional hops, where lower trip cost counts for more than outright reach. If most of your flying sits inside the ATR 42-600's range, the CRJ900's extra capability is range you pay to carry but rarely use.
Which should you choose?
On published specifications the CRJ900 leads on both range and cabin capacity, so it suits operators who want maximum mission flexibility from a single airframe. The ATR 42-600 can still be the smarter buy on acquisition cost, operating economics, runway performance, or current availability — the factors that rarely show up in a spec sheet. Our acquisition advisory team can model both against your actual mission profile before you commit.
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ATR 42-600 vs CRJ900: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the ATR 42-600 or the CRJ900?
The CRJ900 has the longer published range — 1,550 nm versus 900 nm for the ATR 42-600.
Does the ATR 42-600 or CRJ900 seat more passengers?
The CRJ900 carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 90 seats, compared with 50 on the ATR 42-600.
Which is faster, the ATR 42-600 or the CRJ900?
The CRJ900 cruises faster, at 470 kt versus 300 kt for the ATR 42-600.
Which is newer, the ATR 42-600 or the CRJ900?
The ATR 42-600 is the newer design, introduced in 2012 versus 2003 for the CRJ900.
Is the ATR 42-600 or the CRJ900 the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the CRJ900 is the larger aircraft — 84,500 lbs versus 41,226 lbs for the ATR 42-600.
Should I buy the ATR 42-600 or the CRJ900?
On published specifications the CRJ900 leads on both range and cabin capacity, so it suits operators who want maximum mission flexibility from a single airframe. The ATR 42-600 can still be the smarter buy on acquisition cost, operating economics, runway performance, or current availability — the factors that rarely show up in a spec sheet. Our acquisition advisory team can model both against your actual mission profile before you commit.
Still weighing up the ATR 42-600 vs CRJ900?
Specs only take you so far. Our advisors give an independent recommendation based on your mission, budget and how you actually fly — and represent your side through to purchase.