Japan’s new carrier LINK will operate a fleet of 3 ATR 72-600s

The European turboprop aircraft manufacturer ATR and Japan’s new regional carrier LINK are pleased to announce the introduction of the very first ATRs that will fly in Japan, one of the last Asian countries where ATR aircraft had not entered yet. LINK will start operations in 2013 with the introduction into its fleet of three leased ATR 72-600s. The aircraft will be delivered starting in late 2013. This major commercial announcement has been unveiled on the occasion of the Japan Aerospace Airshow, held in Nagoya (Japan).

The arrival of these three 70-seat ATR 72-600 aircraft into the Japanese market represents a major milestone for ATR, which is already well established all over Asia and the Pacific region, with 250 aircraft currently operated by some 50 airlines over 25 countries. These ATR 72-600s will be equipped with new Pratt & Whitney 127M engines and new full-glass cockpit developed by Thales. They will also be equipped with the new Armonia cabin, developed by Italian designer Giugiaro, featuring the most modern layout and most advanced technologies in the field of passenger comfort.

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Koichi Sugiyama, Chief Executive Officer of LINK, declared: “The ATR 72-600 perfectly fits with our requirements in terms of low operating costs, most updated technologies and optimal comfort. This is the most-recently certified 70-seat aircraft on the market, and we are proud to start our operations with such a modern, successful and well-reputed aircraft”.

Filippo Bagnato, Chief Executive Officer of ATR, declared: “Today is a really important day for ATR. We are entering a new and huge market which may bring us substantial commercial opportunities in a country with some 130 million inhabitants. The introduction of these ATR 72-600s with LINK will give us the opportunity of further consolidating our newest 70-seat aircraft as the reference for regional operations. We will make sure for offering all the supports Link will need for its future success in Japan and commit to this important market.  The ATR 72-600 features the lowest operating and maintenance costs of the market, as well as the newest navigation aid tools for optimal performances. In addition, we are pleased to bring into Japan an aircraft which is largely recognized as the greenest one among all regional planes”.

Source: ATR
Photo: Rob Vogelaar Z.A.P.P.