ATR turboprops to Uzbekistan

A new regional airline called Silk Avia is to acquire Franco-Italian-built turboprops. Uzbek start-up Silk Avia has agreed a deal to acquire five new ATR 72-600 turboprops, becoming the first operator of the type in Central Asia. This consists of three examples bought directly from the Franco-Italian manufacturer and a further two supplied via an undisclosed lessor. These are in addition to three pre-owned ATRs the airline will use to launch operations imminently. The new carrier – owned by Uzbekistan