Russia’s UTair placed a firm purchase order last month covering 20 new ATR 72-500s. Valued at $426 million, the deal brings to 37 the number of ATR turboprops UTair either operates now or plans to accept, potentially making it the largest ATR operator in Europe. ATR said it planned to deliver the first airplane during last month’s third full week, and complete deliveries by the end of next year.

The airline, which flies 12 ATR 42-300s and three ATR 72-200s in Russia, along with two ATR 42-300s in Ukraine as UTair Ukraine, plans to add seat capacity on existing segments and develop new routes in both countries.  Delivery of the new aircraft will bring to more than 50 the number of ATRs operated by Russian, Ukrainian and other CIS countries’ carriers.