ATR 72 vs De Havilland Dash 8-400 (Q400)
The ATR 72 and Dash 8 Q400 are the classic modern regional turboprop comparison. The ATR 72 emphasizes low-cost short-sector efficiency, while the Q400 is faster, longer-ranged, and often used where speed matters more on longer regional sectors.
Speed versus cost
The Q400 is much faster, which matters on longer regional routes where block time affects aircraft utilization. The ATR 72 is often favored where the route is short enough that lower trip cost matters more than speed.
Capacity and range
The Q400 carries more passengers in many layouts and has more range in FlightQ's aircraft data. The ATR 72 remains extremely competitive on dense short routes where turboprop economics are the point.
Airport fit
Both aircraft fit regional airports, short runways, island networks, and thin routes that do not justify jets. The choice usually comes down to sector length, required speed, and local operating cost.
Choose the ATR 72 for efficient short regional flying. Choose the Dash 8 Q400 when speed, range, and higher seating density are worth the extra operating complexity.