Let’s walk through a short regional hop: – two challenging airports perfect for an ATR.
Despite the disappointments of failed Kickstarters and unfinished freeware, the ATR 72‑600 remains one of the most anticipated aircraft for X‑Plane 11. It fills a unique niche: a modern, glass‑cockpit turboprop that is both fuel‑efficient and capable of serving short runways. No other aircraft in the default X‑Plane 11 lineup offers exactly that combination.
Transitioning from a Boeing or Airbus to the ATR 72-600 requires a shift in mindset. The aircraft blends highly automated digital displays with manual, mechanical system management. 1. The Glass Cockpit (Thales Avionics)
Never move your condition levers into the "feather" position prematurely on the ground, as this locks out critical hydraulic and electrical systems.
Carenado is famous for stunning visuals. Their ATR 72-600 for X-Plane 11 features a highly detailed 3D cockpit, PBR (Physically Based Rendering) textures, and custom sounds. However, out of the box, the flight model is considered "light." atr 72600 x plane 11
Operating the ATR requires attention to its unique turboprop handling. Stormbirds
Before diving into the simulator landscape, let's quickly recap what makes the real ATR 72‑600 so special. The ATR 72‑600 is the flagship model from Franco‑Italian manufacturer ATR, designed for efficiency and reliability on short‑to‑medium routes. It’s powered by , which deliver a 5% increase in takeoff power thanks to a boost function that automatically engages when conditions require extra thrust. The aircraft can cruise at up to 270 knots true airspeed (about 500 km/h) at a typical altitude of FL240, and it’s known for its exceptional fuel economy, making it a favourite for airlines like Air New Zealand, Fiji Airways, and dozens of regional carriers worldwide.
Happy landings, and keep your ITT in the green!
To fly this aircraft in X-Plane 11, you have a few notable options depending on your budget and desired level of realism: Let’s walk through a short regional hop: –
: A basic version by Christian Rivière exists but is considered "entry-level" with limited system depth. X-Plane.Org Forum Status of ATR 72-600 Projects SkyCatsLab (Upcoming 2026)
Looking for a realistic ATR 72-600 experience in X-Plane 11? Here’s a concise, ready-to-use forum/social post you can copy and paste.
Searching for often leads to forum posts about bugs. Here is how to fix them:
To avoid catastrophic engine fires or frustrating autopilot disconnects, keep these piloting tips in mind: No other aircraft in the default X‑Plane 11
But as we move through 2026, the tide is turning. Both and DWSim are not just promising an add-on; they are showing real, in-game progress, with an expected release this very year. The long drought is ending, and X-Plane 11 pilots are finally on the verge of getting the ATR 72-600 they have so passionately requested for years.
The perfect beginner airliner? A review of Microsoft’s ATR! - Stormbirds
The ATR 72-600 is a twin-engine turboprop manufactured by the French-Italian company ATR (Avions de Transport Régional). Seating roughly 70 to 78 passengers, it is optimized for short-haul, high-frequency routes.