Monday July 27, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Rise Air Expands Fleet with Another New ATR 72-600
SASKATOON, Saskatchewan — Rise Air announced today that it has ordered another new ATR 72-600 aircraft, continuing a fleet renewal program focused on expanding reliable, efficient air services across Saskatchewan and the north.
Now in production, the aircraft is scheduled for delivery at the end of 2026 and is expected to enter service in early 2027. Leased from DAE, one of the world's largest aircraft leasing companies, it will be the fourth brand-new ATR 72-600 in Rise Air's fleet.
Configured for 68 passengers and approved for gravel runway operations, the aircraft will add operational capacity for workforce transportation contracts, charters and other services while preserving the flexibility Rise Air needs in some of Canada's most demanding aviation environments.
“This acquisition builds on a fleet renewal program that has included more than $160 million in fleet modernization over the past four years,” said Derek Nice, President and CEO of Rise Air. “The three ATR 72-600s that entered service earlier this year have met our expectations for performance, passenger experience, and manufacturer in-service support. Adding a fourth aircraft gives our existing and future customers additional capacity and will lead to additional highly skilled jobs for pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers, flight operations teams and other employees across our bases.”
The ATR 72-600 is recognized globally for fuel efficiency, operational reliability and suitability for regional service. Equipped with Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127XT engines, the aircraft offers lower maintenance costs and substantially reduced carbon emissions compared to older generation turboprops and similarly sized regional jets. Its short-field and unpaved-runway capability also makes it well suited to northern airports and remote work sites.
For passengers, the aircraft offers a modern cabin, improved climate control, more leg space and larger overhead storage bins. Its advanced flight deck technology improves operational efficiency and reduces pilot workloads.
Rise Air continues to invest in modern, reliable and sustainable transportation solutions that support economic growth, essential services and community development across the north.
About Rise Air
Over the past 71 years, Saskatchewan’s Rise Air has grown to become one of western Canada’s largest regional airlines. One hundred percent Indigenous owned, Rise Air focuses on providing essential transportation links for people living and working in communities and other sites across the north.
The airline is building a reputation for reliable, responsive customer service in one of the most challenging parts of the country by employing some of the best people in the aviation industry and supporting them with extensive training, modern aircraft, airport facilities and ground equipment, and rigorous safety systems.
In 2026 Rise Air introduced Canada’s first ATR 72-600 regional turboprop airliners, the most advanced aircraft of their kind available today, joining a versatile fleet that includes ATR 42-500 passenger and cargo aircraft, 19-seat Beechcraft 1900Ds, De Havilland Twin Otters, and Beechcraft King Air B200 and Pilatus PC-12 aircraft configured for Medevac and charter services.
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Interview opportunity:
Derek Nice, President and CEO, Rise Air
Media contact:
Dan Gold
Director, Marketing and Stakeholder Relations, Rise Air
306-381-7916
Note: Story image is C-GTNG for illustration purposes.
