Aviation beyond major hubs
Air travel is often associated with large airports and long-haul routes, but for millions of people worldwide, the real value of aviation lies in connecting smaller communities to essential services and economic opportunities. Remote islands, mountainous areas, and rural regions frequently lack extensive transport infrastructure, making regional aviation a lifeline. In these contexts, turboprop aircraft play a unique role, offering reliable service where jet aircraft face limitations.
Designed for short routes and regional needs
The main difference between a jet aircraft and a turboprop is that the latter uses a gas turbine engine to drive a propeller, a configuration that makes it especially efficient at lower altitudes and over shorter distances.
In fact, at altitudes below 25,000 feet, turboprop aircraft are most effective both in terms of fuel economy and climb efficiency. Typically cruising between 250 and 400 knots, these planes are sometimes the only option for short or unpaved runways; they can also better withstand the so-called “hot and high” conditions of many remote locations. This combination of adaptability and performance ensures that turboprops can reach airfields inaccessible to other types of aircraft.
Efficiency that sustains connectivity
For regional operators, economic viability is critical. Compared to regional jets of similar size, turboprop aircraft use up to 45% less fuel and emit 45% less CO₂ per trip, resulting in lower operational costs. This saving allows airlines to maintain routes that might otherwise seem uneconomical but that are actually an essential access to healthcare, education, tourism, and trade for many communities.
The cost advantage is amplified by lower maintenance cost. This makes turboprops indispensable for airlines tasked with serving thin routes, where passenger numbers may not justify larger aircraft.
A growing role in sustainable regional mobility
While often underestimated, the demand for turboprop is actually expected to rise. Remote and underserved regions are a great unexplored market that, as forecast by the industry, is about to bring 2,100 new passenger turboprops and 500 freighters by 2044. Areas such as Asia-Pacific and South Asia are set to lead this growth, driven by limited infrastructure or challenging geography.
At the same time, turboprops are playing an important part in the aviation sector’s transition toward lower emissions. ATR aircraft, for example, are already cleared to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and in 2022, the manufacturer carried out the first-ever 100% SAF flight in a commercial aircraft. Looking forward, developments like the ATR EVO concept – which combines hybrid-ready propulsion with aerodynamic improvements – show how turboprops will continue evolving to cut both costs and emissions.
Conclusion
Looking ahead, the importance of turboprop will only grow. New markets are expanding and this innovative type of aircraft is the better option to respond to the demand. More efficient, safe, and low-emission turboprops are helping keep communities connected today, while paving the path for a more responsible future in regional air travel.
