Represents The 1500th Aircraft Sold

Japan Air Commuter Co. and the European turboprop aircraft manufacturer ATR have signed a contract for the purchase of 8 firm ATR42-600s, plus 1 option and 14 purchase rights, valued at $496 million. The signature of this deal represents a major milestone for ATR, as it represents the 1500th ATR aircraft sold since the beginning of the program. It is also the first contract signed between ATR and a Japanese airline.

The operations with these new 50-seat ATR 42-600s will start in 2017 with the remaining aircraft to be delivered over the next three years. With its brand new fleet, Japan Air Commuter will replace its current regional aircraft on its main routes as well as on operations to smaller islands of the country. The state-of-the-art ATR42-600 turboprop is equipped with a glass cockpit incorporating the newest navigation technologies, -also available on the A380-. The aircraft are also equipped with the new 'Armonia' cabin, featuring the latest standards of comfort, including large overhead bins, LED lightening and more legroom for passengers.

"The ATR42-600 is a perfect match for the regional routes of JAL Group by its economical, environmental and operational specifications," said Arata Yasujima, President of Japan Air Commuter. "Also we believe that the high level of ATR's reliability and our quality of operation will satisfy our passenger's needs. This brand new aircraft will take our passengers to many beautiful destinations, especially the islands of Kagoshima, southern part of Japan."

“Japan is a very interesting market, with some 100 regional aircraft, including over 50 aging turboprops, which may be replaced in the near future," said Patrick de Castelbajac, Chief Executive Officer of ATR. "In order to further develop our presence there and to more effectively serve the Japanese regional aviation market, ATR we have established a new regional representation office in Tokyo."

(Image provided by ATR Aircraft)

FMI: www.atr-aircraft.com