Japanese start-up Toki Air takes delivery of first aircraft

Japanese start-up airline Toki Air has taken delivery of its first aircraft, an ATR 72-600 twin-engine turboprop.

The plane, which holds registration JA01QQ, joined the air carrier on October 10, 2022, and was leased from Nordic Aviation Capital under a long-term agreement. Currently, the aircraft is in its fourth year in operation, according to Planespotters.com data.

Toki Air, Japan’s newest regional airline, aims to launch operations in 2023.

“We are pleased to start operating our ATR 72-600 aircraft soon. Thanks to their unrivaled versatility and responsible and affordable performance, ATR aircraft are the ideal choice for us as an airline and for our country,” Toki Air representative director Masaki Hasegawa said.

“This first aircraft will allow us to serve our higher purpose by providing a responsible and reliable air connection to the communities of the Niigata Prefecture and surrounding regions. We look forward to seeing Toki flying in the skies of Japan,” Hasegawa concluded.

The newcomer plans to receive a second aircraft of the type before its launch. The aircraft, which is 2.3-year-old and holds the registration JA02QQ, will join the airline’s fleet under similar long-term lease terms.

There are currently a total of 15 ATR turboprops operating across the country. The manufacturer estimates a potential for 100 ATR aircraft in the medium term.

Once launched, Toki Air will become Japan’s fourth airline to operate ATR planes.