LINK to be First in Japan to Fly ATRs

Japan's new regional carrier LINK will be the first airline to fly the ATR 72-600 in Japan, one of the last Asian countries where ATR aircraft have not yet entered.

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.

The three 70-seat ATR 72-600 aircraft 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, said, “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, added, “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.”

ATR 72-600

Passenger capacity: 68-74 seats
Engines: Pratt & Whitney Canada PW 127M
Maximum power at take-off: 2,750 horse power per engine
Maximum weight at take-off: 23,000 Kgs
Maximum load: 7,500 Kgs
Maximum range with full passenger load: 900 nautical miles (1,665 Kms)

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