ATR targets increasing opportunities for regional aircraft in Japan

ATR is stepping up its presence in Japan as the country sees an increase in demand for regional aviation in the wake of the pandemic.

Speaking in Japan today, ATR CEO Stefano Bortoli, said: “We see 100 ATR aircraft flying in Japan in a few years. Air transport is crucial for the archipelago, where air routes are essential for domestic travel and transportation. We want to help ensure that aviation contributes to a prosperous future for Japan by connecting its regions ever more sustainably and affordably. Most of the new ATRs will replace older, less efficient models, and will connect islands and remote regions with the country’s major cities.”

Promoting economic development and connecting communities in all parts of the country while ensuring the lowest level of environmental impact is one of Japan’s main challenges. ATR aircraft already provide an immediate answer as they burn 40% less fuel and emit 40% less CO2 than similar-size regional jets, contributing to the Japanese government’s goal to cut emissions by 46% by 2030. The numerous innovations shortly available including the new PW127XT engine and the possibility to use up to 100% sustainable aviation fuel will further reduce ATR’s emissions.

Fabrice Vautier, SVP Commercial, said: “Japan and ATR are a great match. The Japanese airlines that operate ATR aircraft can connect all regions, even remote ones, to larger hubs in Japan in a sustainable manner, thanks to the unique combination of low operating costs and low emissions. Soon, with the Short Take-Off and Landing version of our aircraft, we will contribute to serving even smaller airports across the Japanese archipelago: there are 10 airports in Japan with short airstrips that provide vital links for those communities.”

ATR entered the Japanese market six years ago. There are already 15 ATR aircraft flying across Japan, with three operators: Amakusa Airline, JAC and HAC. Late September 2021, HAC took delivery of a brand-new ATR 42-600, using Sustainable Aviation Fuel for the first leg of its ferry flight. At the beginning of May 2022, ATR delivered an ATR 42-600 to JAC. The aircraft sports a livery representing the leaves of Kaikouzu, which represent the preservation of nature.

Moreover, Toki Air and ORC will soon start operating ATR aircraft, further demonstrating that the ATR aircraft family is optimised to meet the needs of the Japanese market, thanks to its performance and versatility, reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions and low operating costs – all of which contribute to making air transport more responsible and accessible.