ATR 72-500 vs Embraer E170
The Embraer E170 leads, topping 5 of 7 compared metrics.
Put the ATR ATR 72-500 (introduced 1997) beside the Embraer Executive Jets Embraer E170 (introduced 2004) and the trade-offs sharpen fast. Both are regional, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is range, where the Embraer E170 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 Embraer E170: the key differences
- The Embraer E170 delivers 155% more range (ATR 72-500: 825 nm; Embraer E170: 2,100 nm).
- The Embraer E170 delivers 62% more cruise speed (ATR 72-500: 276 kt; Embraer E170: 447 kt).
- The Embraer E170 delivers 8% more passenger capacity (ATR 72-500: 74 seats; Embraer E170: 80 seats).
- The Embraer E170 is the newer design (introduced 2004 versus 1997 for the ATR 72-500), a gap of 7 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 50,265 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 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 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 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.
More comparisons
ATR 72-500 vs Embraer E170: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the ATR 72-500 or the Embraer E170?
The Embraer E170 has the longer published range — 2,100 nm versus 825 nm for the ATR 72-500.
Does the ATR 72-500 or Embraer E170 seat more passengers?
The Embraer E170 carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 80 seats, compared with 74 on the ATR 72-500.
Which is faster, the ATR 72-500 or the Embraer E170?
The Embraer E170 cruises faster, at 447 kt versus 276 kt for the ATR 72-500.
Which is newer, the ATR 72-500 or the Embraer E170?
The Embraer E170 is the newer design, introduced in 2004 versus 1997 for the ATR 72-500.
Is the ATR 72-500 or the Embraer E170 the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the Embraer E170 is the larger aircraft — 82,012 lbs versus 50,265 lbs for the ATR 72-500.
Should I buy the ATR 72-500 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 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 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.