ATR 72-500 vs CRJ700
The CRJ700 leads, topping 5 of 7 compared metrics.
Cross-shopping the ATR ATR 72-500 (introduced 1997) against the Bombardier Aviation CRJ700 (introduced 2001) 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 CRJ700 has the advantage. 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 72-500 vs CRJ700: the key differences
- The CRJ700 delivers 67% more range (ATR 72-500: 825 nm; CRJ700: 1,378 nm).
- The CRJ700 delivers 71% more cruise speed (ATR 72-500: 276 kt; CRJ700: 473 kt).
- The CRJ700 delivers 5% more passenger capacity (ATR 72-500: 74 seats; CRJ700: 78 seats).
- The CRJ700 is the newer design (introduced 2001 versus 1997 for the ATR 72-500), a gap of 4 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The CRJ700 is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (75,000 lbs versus 50,265 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
Which mission suits which aircraft
The CRJ700 is the stronger fit for regional and short-to-medium legs — its 1,378 nm of range removes fuel stops on those legs. The ATR 72-500, at 825 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 72-500's range, the CRJ700's extra capability is range you pay to carry but rarely use.
Which should you choose?
On published specifications the CRJ700 leads on both range and cabin capacity, so it suits operators who want maximum mission flexibility from a single airframe. The ATR 72-500 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 72-500 vs CRJ700: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the ATR 72-500 or the CRJ700?
The CRJ700 has the longer published range — 1,378 nm versus 825 nm for the ATR 72-500.
Does the ATR 72-500 or CRJ700 seat more passengers?
The CRJ700 carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 78 seats, compared with 74 on the ATR 72-500.
Which is faster, the ATR 72-500 or the CRJ700?
The CRJ700 cruises faster, at 473 kt versus 276 kt for the ATR 72-500.
Which is newer, the ATR 72-500 or the CRJ700?
The CRJ700 is the newer design, introduced in 2001 versus 1997 for the ATR 72-500.
Is the ATR 72-500 or the CRJ700 the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the CRJ700 is the larger aircraft — 75,000 lbs versus 50,265 lbs for the ATR 72-500.
Should I buy the ATR 72-500 or the CRJ700?
On published specifications the CRJ700 leads on both range and cabin capacity, so it suits operators who want maximum mission flexibility from a single airframe. The ATR 72-500 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 72-500 vs CRJ700?
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.