Seoul: Sum Air Co., a wholly owned unit of South Korean mobility platform startup Mobility As a Freedom (MAAF), announced on Sunday the acquisition of an additional turboprop aircraft from European manufacturer ATR to expand its fleet. The company has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with ATR in Seoul to introduce a second ATR 72-600 aircraft. This expansion targets routes serving domestic islands, such as Ulleung off South Korea's east coast, Baengnyeong near the western sea border with North Korea, and Heuksan off the country's southwest coast.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Sum Air received its first ATR 72-600 in January and launched service on the Gimpo-Sacheon route in March. Sacheon is notable as the home to Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), South Korea's sole aircraft manufacturer. The ATR 72-600 is recognized as the world's bestselling turboprop aircraft, known for its fuel efficiency and cost competitiveness, making it particularly suitable for low-demand routes while supporting more sustainable operations.

ATR Chief Executive Nathalie Tarnaud Laude highlighted that the addition of the aircraft will enable Sum Air to enhance connectivity to remote regions while simultaneously meeting environmental goals. ATR, a 50:50 joint venture established in 1981 between France's Airbus and Italy's Leonardo, is headquartered in Toulouse, France. The company specializes in turboprop aircraft designed for short-haul travel.

The company has set an ambitious target to sell 25 turboprop aircraft in South Korea by 2030. This aligns with South Korea's plans to open airports on Ulleung, Baengnyeong, and Heuksan islands in the coming years.