Japanese regional airline group Feel Air Holdings is preparing to use ATR twin-turboprop aircraft to launch new franchised operations to connect underserved communities. On Monday at the Farnborough Airshow, the company signed a letter of intent covering 36 aircraft that will include a mix of the 50-seat ATR 42-600, the 70-seat ATR 72-600, and the new short takeoff and landing ATR 42-600S.
According to Feel Air, ATR turboprops open new routes in a way that will stimulate local economies. CEO Hideki Ide said the company plans to launch at least five new regional operations in the next few years.
“Feel Air Holdings aims to bring a new dynamic to Japanese regional air travel, making it more versatile, more meaningful, and more accessible,” commented Feel Air president Taiichi Kojima. “Thanks to their reduced CO2 emissions and fuel efficiency, ATR aircraft can help us to do this in a more sustainable manner, allowing us to contribute actively to local communities while also protecting many beautiful natural landscapes.”
Fifteen ATR aircraft operate in commercial service with three operators in Japan. Two more are set to start flying there in the next few months, and the European manufacturer sees a market potential for about 100 units with Japanese carriers in the medium term.