Japanese regional carrier Hokkaido Air System (HAC) has taken delivery of its first of two ATR 42-600s.
HAC ordered the ATRs at the Farnborough air show in 2018. It also holds an option for a third turboprop.
The delivery of the ATR 42, registered JA11HC, “marks the first step” in HAC’s replacement of its existing fleet of Saab 340s.
The carrier, part of the Japan Airlines Group, has three Saab 340s in operation, Cirium fleets data indicate.
HAC chief executive Tetsu Ohori says: “In winter, the great nature turns her face with severe cold and heavy snow. Even under such hard conditions, this ATR 42 will perform well and make our new business a success.”
The carrier operates five regional routes within Hokkaido, and is based at Sapporo-Okadama airport.
