Taiwanese Regional Supporting Fleet Update, Growth

UNI Air, Taiwan’s EVA Air’s regional subsidiary, has signed a firm order with turboprop manufacturer ATR to purchase 19 ATR 72-600 aircraft, with options for three more in what ATR says is the largest single order it has received since 2017. Deliveries are anticipated to begin in 2027.

The new ATRs are slated to gradually replace UNI Air’s existing fleet of 14 ATR 72-600s with the newer models that are equipped with new-generation PW127XT engines as well as an improved cabin layout and an advanced Air Management System to enhance fuel efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and improve comfort for passengers.

Solomon Lin, Chairman of UNI Air said, “This marks a major step in UNI Air’s strategy to enhance domestic air services. With this new order, we are reinforcing our commitment to ensuring a young and modern fleet to serve the domestic market efficiently, offering passengers the highest standards of comfort and reliability.”

UNI Air serves to connect 11 cities across Taiwan including the outlying islands of Kinmen, Penghu, and Matsu. The regional operates primarily out of Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) and provides year-round access to the communities that rely on air service because of limited alternatives.

In this way, UNI Air serves an important role in maintaining the domestic connectivity of Taiwan’s remote regions with the larger domestic and international hubs.

Nathalie Tarnaud-Laude, CEO of ATR said, “UNI Air makes a meaningful difference for the communities it serves. This new order is a powerful affirmation of our mission: building aircraft that bring communities closer together.”

ATR is a joint partnership between the European aircraft manufacturers Airbus and Leonardo, of France and Italy, respectively.

FMI:  www.atr-aircraft.com/