The ATR 42-320 is a twin-turboprop regional airliner that was first developed and manufactured by the French-Italian aircraft manufacturer Avions de Transport Regional (ATR) in the early 1980s. The ATR 42 is the first aircraft developed by ATR and is the larger version of the ATR-72, which itself was a stretched version of the ATR 42-320. The ATR 42-320 was designed as a short-haul commuter aircraft to serve routes of up to 500 nautical miles.

ATR decided to manufacture the ATR 42-320 because of the increasing demand for more efficient and cost-effective regional air travel. The aircraft was designed to provide cost-efficient transportation to passengers in both short-haul and medium-haul markets. The ATR 42-320 quickly became popular among airlines as it was able to offer a greater number of seats and more range than other aircraft in its class.

In terms of safety, the ATR 42-320 has had its fair share of issues over the years. In 2015, an ATR 42-320 operated by PSA Airlines crashed while on approach to land at Yeager Airport in West Virginia, killing all 7 people onboard. This accident highlighted the need for stricter safety measures in the ATR 42-320 and other aircraft, and since then the aircraft has been modified to include additional safety features.

Despite its safety issues, the ATR 42-320 is still a popular aircraft today. It is one of the most common regional airliners in the world and is used by many airlines around the globe. The ATR 42-320 is also known for its innovations and new technologies, such as its advanced flight control system and its modernized autopilot system. The aircraft also offers increased fuel efficiency and lower operating costs compared to other aircraft in its class.

Overall, the ATR 42-320 is a reliable and cost-effective regional airliner that has revolutionized regional air travel. It is a versatile aircraft that can be used for both short-haul and medium-haul flights and offers a greater number of seats and more range than other aircraft in its class. The ATR 42-320 also brings numerous innovations and new technologies to the table, such as its advanced flight control system and its modernized autopilot system. The aircraft also offers increased fuel efficiency and lower operating costs compared to other aircraft in its class.