Malaysian airline Berjaya Air has taken delivery of the world’s first ATR 72-600 equipped with the new ATR HighLine configuration, featuring an all-business-class cabin. The aircraft arrived in Kuala Lumpur on May 20, marking the first delivery of ATR’s new premium cabin concept and, at the same time, the first ATR 72-600 in Berjaya Air’s fleet.
The configuration is presented by ATR as a combination of private aviation comfort and the operational efficiency of a regional turboprop aircraft. The new cabin concept received certification earlier this month from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, EASA, and the Malaysian aviation authorities, clearing the way for commercial operations.
The aircraft cabin is fitted in a fully business-class configuration with a total of 26 seats in a 1-1 layout. This arrangement gives every passenger direct aisle access, as well as a view through multiple windows. The aircraft is equipped with handcrafted ETEREA seats by Geven, which ATR describes as the widest seats ever installed on this aircraft type. Each seat offers additional personal space and a side console with integrated storage compartments.
One of the most noticeable changes compared with a standard ATR 72-600 cabin is the absence of traditional overhead bins above the seats. They have been replaced by elegant ceiling panels, creating a more open visual impression, with more natural light and a cabin volume feel closer to that of much larger aircraft. ATR emphasizes that this travel experience is offered on an aircraft that retains the key advantages of the turboprop platform, primarily low fuel consumption and suitability for regional routes.
Berjaya Air will begin operating the new aircraft in the coming days, initially on a new route between Subang and Koh Samui. The airline then plans to expand its “affordable luxury” concept across its new regional network, with direct connections within Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia. Particular focus will be placed on connecting destinations linked to Berjaya Group’s hotel and resort portfolio, including island destinations such as Redang and Langkawi.
The aircraft in ATR HighLine All-Business Class configuration will also be available for charter operations in the Asia-Pacific region, allowing Berjaya Air to target passengers seeking an experience close to private aviation, but with the lower operating costs of a regional aircraft.
Syed Ali Shahul Hameed, Group CEO of Berjaya Property Berhad, said the delivery of the first ATR 72-600 in HighLine configuration represents an important step in Berjaya Air’s transformation. According to him, the new cabin enables the airline to offer passengers a refined travel experience to some of the region’s most sought-after destinations, while maintaining a focus on operational efficiency and a high level of service.
ATR Chief Executive Officer Nathalie Tarnaud Laude said the delivery demonstrates the ability of the ATR aircraft family to adapt to new market expectations. She added that the HighLine cabin collection opens new opportunities for operators seeking a higher level of comfort without giving up the economic and operational advantages of the ATR platform.
Berjaya Air is expected to take delivery of a second new ATR 72-600 in the same All-Business Class configuration in the third quarter of this year.
