ATR 72-500 vs ERJ-145
The ERJ-145 leads, topping 4 of 7 compared metrics.
Put the ATR ATR 72-500 (introduced 1997) beside the Embraer Executive Jets ERJ-145 (introduced 1996) 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 ERJ-145 has the advantage. The spec-by-spec breakdown below is followed by a mission-fit read and a buyer's recommendation.
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ATR 72-500 vs ERJ-145: the key differences
- The ERJ-145 delivers 88% more range (ATR 72-500: 825 nm; ERJ-145: 1,550 nm).
- The ERJ-145 delivers 63% more cruise speed (ATR 72-500: 276 kt; ERJ-145: 450 kt).
- The ATR 72-500 delivers 48% more passenger capacity (ATR 72-500: 74 seats; ERJ-145: 50 seats).
- The ATR 72-500 is the newer design (introduced 1997 versus 1996 for the ERJ-145), a gap of 1 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The ATR 72-500 is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (50,265 lbs versus 48,501 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
Which mission suits which aircraft
The ERJ-145 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 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 ERJ-145's extra capability is range you pay to carry but rarely use.
Which should you choose?
Choose the ERJ-145 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the ATR 72-500 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the ERJ-145 holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
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ATR 72-500 vs ERJ-145: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the ATR 72-500 or the ERJ-145?
The ERJ-145 has the longer published range — 1,550 nm versus 825 nm for the ATR 72-500.
Does the ATR 72-500 or ERJ-145 seat more passengers?
The ATR 72-500 carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 74 seats, compared with 50 on the ERJ-145.
Which is faster, the ATR 72-500 or the ERJ-145?
The ERJ-145 cruises faster, at 450 kt versus 276 kt for the ATR 72-500.
Which is newer, the ATR 72-500 or the ERJ-145?
The ATR 72-500 is the newer design, introduced in 1997 versus 1996 for the ERJ-145.
Is the ATR 72-500 or the ERJ-145 the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the ATR 72-500 is the larger aircraft — 50,265 lbs versus 48,501 lbs for the ERJ-145.
Should I buy the ATR 72-500 or the ERJ-145?
Choose the ERJ-145 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the ATR 72-500 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the ERJ-145 holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
Still weighing up the ATR 72-500 vs ERJ-145?
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.