SAFIRE’s ATR 42 may look like a standard turboprop from the outside, but step aboard and you’ll find a state-of-the-art airborne research lab that’s helping scientists decode the planet’s changing atmosphere. With every flight, it’s redefining how we understand weather, climate, and the Earth’s atmospheric systems.
SAFIRE, the French facility for airborne environmental research, operates a uniquely modified ATR 42 aircraft that serves as a cornerstone for cutting-edge atmospheric science. Backed by Météo-France, CNRS, and CNES, this 100% public institution is instrumental in supporting Earth observation campaigns, validating space missions, and serving as a vital testbed for aerospace and environmental technologies.
The ATR 42 isn’t merely an aircraft—it’s an agile, high-precision flying laboratory. Outfitted with a sophisticated array of sensors and data acquisition systems, the aircraft captures detailed atmospheric measurements in real time. From cloud microphysics to turbulence dynamics, this platform is central to understanding atmospheric phenomena with a level of granularity previously reserved for satellites or fixed ground stations.
Originally built for commercial use, the ATR 42 has been thoroughly reengineered to support advanced research applications. Its transformation includes specialised features such as a modified radome housing a five-hole probe for three-dimensional turbulence analysis, as well as a network of fuselage-mounted pressure sensors, radiometer basins, and PMS probe mounts. The result is a platform capable of collecting multi-dimensional atmospheric data during live flight operations.
This flexibility extends to sensor integration. The aircraft supports an array of scientific probes, from radiometers and gas analysers to laser-based LIDAR systems, all of which contribute to a nuanced understanding of atmospheric structure and chemical composition. Customisable openings—ranging from circular to rectangular and fitted with precision-grade glass—enable safe, secure mounting of complex instrumentation both above and below the fuselage.
With the ability to profile aerosols, trace gases, and cloud layers, the ATR 42 delivers data critical for enhancing weather forecasting models and informing global climate simulations. Its real-time insights support ongoing research into the environmental effects of carbon emissions, aerosol interaction, and storm formation—providing tangible value for climate science and policy.
SAFIRE’s ongoing investment in this platform means that the ATR 42 is constantly being updated with new capabilities. It’s not just responsive to the needs of current research; it’s built for the future. As new scientific challenges emerge, this aircraft is ready to be adapted with additional sensors and instruments, maintaining its edge as a premier tool for environmental monitoring.
For investors, the message is clear: SAFIRE’s ATR 42 plays a pivotal role in the future of Earth system science. Its contributions extend far beyond France’s borders, helping to build the global knowledge base needed to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure environmental sustainability.
SAFIRE is France’s national airborne research facility, operated by Météo-France, CNRS, and CNES. It provides a state-of-the-art platform for atmospheric and environmental research through its specially modified ATR 42 aircraft, supporting missions in Earth observation, climate science, and aerospace R&D.
Avation PLC (LON:AVAP) is a commercial passenger aircraft leasing company owning a fleet of aircraft which it leases to airlines across the world. Avation’s future focus are new technology low CO2 emission aircraft.
