Toki Air, a new Japanese airline, has enhanced operational flexibility by introducing the ATR72-600 aircraft, capable of carrying both cargo and passengers.
Specifically, the 'Cargo Flex' feature allows for quick conversion between passenger seats and cargo space, enabling the airline to adapt to diverse transportation demands.
The airline aims to expand its network, particularly around Niigata, and plans to launch routes to the metropolitan area, pursuing business growth and improved profitability.
Japanese startup airline 'Toki Air' is drawing attention from the aviation industry with the introduction of two ATR72-600 aircraft that can be freely converted between cargo and passenger transport.
Having surpassed 10,000 cumulative passengers just three months after its first flight on January 31st, Toki Air is now poised to offer even more flexible flight services. The newly introduced ATR72-600 aircraft can accommodate up to 72 passengers, but when carrying cargo, passenger seats can be removed to transport up to 3.1 tons of freight.
This 'Cargo Flex' feature is the first of its kind among ATR aircraft in Japan, allowing for the seamless conversion between seating and cargo space within just 3-4 hours. ATR has stated that "the conversion process can be completed within a single night."
Toki Air is also considering the introduction of the new ATR42-600S model. This aircraft boasts short takeoff and landing capabilities, requiring only an 800m runway, making it ideal for developing regional airport routes.
Toki Air announced that it will launch a new route connecting Niigata and Sendai on April 26th, and is also planning to increase the frequency of its Niigata-Sapporo route from the current four times a week to five times a week. With plans to further expand its network by adding routes to Nagoya, Kobe, Sado, and eventually the metropolitan area (Narita Airport), the airline is garnering anticipation for both business growth and improved profitability.