ATR 42-600 vs Embraer E170
The Embraer E170 leads, topping 7 of 7 compared metrics.
Cross-shopping the ATR ATR 42-600 (introduced 2012) against the Embraer Executive Jets Embraer E170 (introduced 2004) 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 range, where the Embraer E170 has the advantage. We line the numbers up below, then translate them into the mission each aircraft actually wins.
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ATR 42-600 vs Embraer E170: the key differences
- The Embraer E170 delivers 133% more range (ATR 42-600: 900 nm; Embraer E170: 2,100 nm).
- The Embraer E170 delivers 49% more cruise speed (ATR 42-600: 300 kt; Embraer E170: 447 kt).
- The Embraer E170 delivers 60% more passenger capacity (ATR 42-600: 50 seats; Embraer E170: 80 seats).
- The ATR 42-600 is the newer design (introduced 2012 versus 2004 for the Embraer E170), a gap of 8 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The Embraer E170 is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (82,012 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 Embraer E170 is the stronger fit for transcontinental missions — its 2,100 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 Embraer E170's extra capability is range you pay to carry but rarely use.
Which should you choose?
On published specifications the Embraer E170 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 Embraer E170: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the ATR 42-600 or the Embraer E170?
The Embraer E170 has the longer published range — 2,100 nm versus 900 nm for the ATR 42-600.
Does the ATR 42-600 or Embraer E170 seat more passengers?
The Embraer E170 carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 80 seats, compared with 50 on the ATR 42-600.
Which is faster, the ATR 42-600 or the Embraer E170?
The Embraer E170 cruises faster, at 447 kt versus 300 kt for the ATR 42-600.
Which is newer, the ATR 42-600 or the Embraer E170?
The ATR 42-600 is the newer design, introduced in 2012 versus 2004 for the Embraer E170.
Is the ATR 42-600 or the Embraer E170 the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the Embraer E170 is the larger aircraft — 82,012 lbs versus 41,226 lbs for the ATR 42-600.
Should I buy the ATR 42-600 or the Embraer E170?
On published specifications the Embraer E170 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 Embraer E170?
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.