On October 29, all four ATR 42-600s in Hokkaido Air System’s fleet were shown side by side at Okadama Airport (Sapporo).
The company has been progressively upgrading its previously operated SAAB 340B aircraft (three at the time) since April 2020, with the second, third, and fourth aircraft entering service in April 2021, November 2021, and October 2023, respectively.
Compared to the SAAB, which had 36 seats, the ATR has 48 seats due to its larger fuselage diameter, and the baggage compartment above the seats has more space. The wing is located on the upper side of the fuselage, which allows passengers to enjoy a better view of the aircraft’s windows. The company cited the aircraft’s high reliability in cold climates as a deciding factor in selecting the aircraft when placing the order.
With the addition of four aircraft, new flights on the Okadama – Nemuro-Nakashibetsu route and the Okadama – Akita route are scheduled to begin today, the 29th. The Nemuro-Nakashibetsu route, in particular, is the first new domestic route for the JAL Group in 12 years, since Rishiri Airport in October 2011.
© Source travel watch