ATR 72-500 vs Saab 2000
The Saab 2000 leads, topping 4 of 7 compared metrics.
Put the ATR ATR 72-500 (introduced 1997) beside the Saab Saab 2000 (introduced 1994) 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 Saab 2000 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 Saab 2000: the key differences
- The Saab 2000 delivers 52% more range (ATR 72-500: 825 nm; Saab 2000: 1,250 nm).
- The Saab 2000 delivers 34% more cruise speed (ATR 72-500: 276 kt; Saab 2000: 370 kt).
- The ATR 72-500 delivers 28% more passenger capacity (ATR 72-500: 74 seats; Saab 2000: 58 seats).
- The ATR 72-500 is the newer design (introduced 1997 versus 1994 for the Saab 2000), a gap of 3 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
Which mission suits which aircraft
The Saab 2000 is the stronger fit for regional and short-to-medium legs — its 1,250 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 Saab 2000's extra capability is range you pay to carry but rarely use.
Which should you choose?
Choose the Saab 2000 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the ATR 72-500 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the Saab 2000 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.
More comparisons
ATR 72-500 vs Saab 2000: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the ATR 72-500 or the Saab 2000?
The Saab 2000 has the longer published range — 1,250 nm versus 825 nm for the ATR 72-500.
Does the ATR 72-500 or Saab 2000 seat more passengers?
The ATR 72-500 carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 74 seats, compared with 58 on the Saab 2000.
Which is faster, the ATR 72-500 or the Saab 2000?
The Saab 2000 cruises faster, at 370 kt versus 276 kt for the ATR 72-500.
Which is newer, the ATR 72-500 or the Saab 2000?
The ATR 72-500 is the newer design, introduced in 1997 versus 1994 for the Saab 2000.
Should I buy the ATR 72-500 or the Saab 2000?
Choose the Saab 2000 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the ATR 72-500 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the Saab 2000 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 Saab 2000?
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.