ATR has announced a letter of intent (LOI) signing between Japanese startup airline JCAS Airways and Singapore-based lessor Avation PLC for the lease of an ATR 72-600. Delivery is scheduled for the end of 2025.
JCAS Airways intends to launch operations in Japan using the ATR 72-600. Initial routes will connect Kansai to Toyama and Yonago. The ATR is an ideal choice to boost regional and domestic connectivity in the Japanese market, offering low-emission travel to its passengers.
Seiji Shirane, the Chief Executive Officer at JCAS Airways, said: “Japanese communities rely massively on regional air links for everything from healthcare and trade to business and tourism, and JCAS Airways will contribute to revitalising our country, boosting its economy, making cultural experiences accessible, and maintaining a vital lifeline for the islanders of Japan.”
Jeff Chatfield, Executive Chairman of Avation PLC, added: “By investing in latest-generation, industry-leading low-carbon footprint, SAF-compatible aircraft, such as the ATR 72, we are all investing in a more sustainable future for aviation, contributing to reinforce much-needed connectivity between regions and communities.”
Currently, ATR has 20 aircraft flying in Japan with five operators. This LOI also follows on from the recent order placed by Avation for 10 ATR 72-600s in May 2023, demonstrating the positive signs for demand in the market and for ATR aircraft.
Photo: ATR
