This month’s round-up in regional aviation include stories from Manta Air in Maldives, Philippine Airlines’ network expansion from Clark, ATR and Vietnam Airlines.
1. Maldives’ Manta Air to receive two ATR 72-600s
Source: GBP
Manta Air, the new domestic airline in the Maldives, has secured its first two ATR 72-600s through Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC). The first will be introduced in November 2018, with the second planned to join Manta Air’s fleet before year-end. the end of the year. The aircraft will ensure improved connectivity between the beautiful Maldivian atolls. They will be initially operating from the main Velana International Airport, to three airports – Kudahuvadhoo in Dhaalu atoll, Dharavandhoo in Baa atoll and Thimarafushi in Thaa atoll.
2. Philippine Airlines announces expansion of domestic network from Clark
Source: Aviation Tribune
Philippine Airlines continues to expand its network of flights from Clark International Airport, with the opening of three new routes: Clark – San Vicente (Palawan), Clark – San Jose (Mindoro) and Clark – Cauayan (Isabela). All three routes will to be operated using new 86-seater Bombardier Q400 turboprop aircraft fitted with six economy plus premium seats and 80 economy class seats.
“Philippine Airlines made a big decision to invest in Clark. The Clark International Airport is not just a stop-over or refuelling station. Clark is our fastest growing hub airport, center of a network of flights that connects the country,” said Philippine Airlines Express president Bonifacio U. Sam.
3. ATR talks up cargo potential for regional Australia routes
Source: Australian Aviation
Turboprop airliner manufacturer ATR says the boom in online shopping could help spur demand for its aircraft in Australia as part of a mixed business model where cargo shipments supports passenger services on regional routes. While Australia does not have the double-digit growth of other markets in Asia Pacific such as India or Indonesia, ATR regional sales director Jean-Daniel Kosowski says there is still much potential in Australia.
4. Vietnam Airlines to use regional jets
Source: Viet Nam News
National carrier Vietnam Airlines plans to replace its fleet of ATR aircraft with new-generation regional jet aircraft containing about 100 seats in order to improve the efficiency of operation and service quality on short routes. In comparison with the Airbus A321, the jet aircraft will have fewer seats but be really suitable with domestic routes and small airports such as Điện Biên, Côn Đảo and Rạch Giá. Vietnam Airlines expects that the regional jets will be very versatile.
