Historic Moment as Rise Air Receives Canada’s First ATR 72-600
Rise Air, an entirely Indigenous-owned airline based in Saskatchewan, has etched its name in the annals of Canadian aviation history. The airline recently took delivery of the country’s first ATR 72-600 aircraft during a ceremony in Toulouse, France. This significant event, which took place in December 2025, marks the introduction of the ATR -600 series in Canada, following its certification by Transport Canada on November 27, 2025.
The newly acquired turboprop boosts passenger capacity from 44 to 68 seats. It is powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PW127XT engines, which are known for their eco-friendly nature, emitting 45% less CO2 compared to similar-sized regional jets. The aircraft boasts a modern glass cockpit and is specifically designed for regional and remote flying, including operations on short and gravel runways commonly found at northern airports and mine sites.
This delivery is a part of a three-aircraft agreement signed in November 2024. The deal, valued at up to $500 million over 15 years, was made with northern employers Cameco and Orano. Two more ATR 72-600 aircraft are set to join the fleet in 2026. The aircraft is expected to commence flights on northern Saskatchewan routes in early February 2026, pending final approvals from Transport Canada.
Source: https://www.atr-aircraft.com/presspost/rise-air-takes-delivery-of-canadas-first-atr-72-600-aircraft/