Hokkaido Air System to Replace Saab 340s with ATR 42-600s

Hokkaido Air System (HAC), a JAL Group company, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with ATR for the purchase of two ATR 42-600s with an option for a third.

The aircraft, which are scheduled for delivery in 2020, will replace HAC`s fleet of Saab 340s taking advantage of the superior economics of the cutting-edge ATR -600 series.

Yoichiro Kuwano, President of HAC, said, "The ATR 42-600 benefits from a wide cabin, comparable to that of a medium-sized aircraft, and will significantly improve the cabin comfort for our passengers. Also, the aircraft has extensive experience with operations in cold winter, which will increase the reliability of the operations in Hokkaido. With this new aircraft and the safe operation system we`ve established, we will continue to provide reliable and comfortable travel to local businesses and communities."

ATR Chief Executive Officer, Christian Scherer, added, "We are delighted to see that ATR is the right aircraft for Japan. With economics that are unmatched by any other aircraft, the ATR makes perfect sense financially but beyond this, JAL Group`s endorsement is testimony to the relevance of our product in a most advanced society that is concerned with comfort, environmentally-friendliness and the benefits of regional connectivity."

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