ATR 72-600 vs Saab 2000
The Saab 2000 leads, topping 5 of 7 compared metrics.
Put the ATR ATR 72-600 (introduced 2009) 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. Below we compare them spec by spec, then break down which aircraft suits which mission.
6 more specs per aircraft — ceiling, climb, cabin, dimensions and more — are free with an account.
ATR 72-600 vs Saab 2000: the key differences
- The Saab 2000 delivers 52% more range (ATR 72-600: 825 nm; Saab 2000: 1,250 nm).
- The Saab 2000 delivers 35% more cruise speed (ATR 72-600: 275 kt; Saab 2000: 370 kt).
- The ATR 72-600 delivers 34% more passenger capacity (ATR 72-600: 78 seats; Saab 2000: 58 seats).
- The ATR 72-600 is the newer design (introduced 2009 versus 1994 for the Saab 2000), a gap of 15 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The ATR 72-600 is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (50,706 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 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 72-600, 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 72-600'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 72-600 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 72-600 vs Saab 2000: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the ATR 72-600 or the Saab 2000?
The Saab 2000 has the longer published range — 1,250 nm versus 825 nm for the ATR 72-600.
Does the ATR 72-600 or Saab 2000 seat more passengers?
The ATR 72-600 carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 78 seats, compared with 58 on the Saab 2000.
Which is faster, the ATR 72-600 or the Saab 2000?
The Saab 2000 cruises faster, at 370 kt versus 275 kt for the ATR 72-600.
Which is newer, the ATR 72-600 or the Saab 2000?
The ATR 72-600 is the newer design, introduced in 2009 versus 1994 for the Saab 2000.
Is the ATR 72-600 or the Saab 2000 the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the ATR 72-600 is the larger aircraft — 50,706 lbs versus 50,265 lbs for the Saab 2000.
Should I buy the ATR 72-600 or the Saab 2000?
Choose the Saab 2000 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the ATR 72-600 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 72-600 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.