Mandarin Airlines essentially runs domestic services in Taiwan
Mandarin Airlines, the regional subsidiary of Taiwan’s flag carrier China Airlines has placed a firm order for one ATR 72-600, underscoring the airline’s unwavering confidence in ATR as the optimal platform for the island’s domestic operations.
In a press statement, ATR, which is a leading manufacturer of regional aircraft, says that the strategic agreement comes swiftly on the heels of the order for six ATR 72-600 placed at last year’s Paris Air Show.
It says that delivery of the additional aircraft is scheduled for the first quarter of 2026, to meet Mandarin Airlines’ peak season demand. Three of the six aircraft from the previous order have been delivered, while deliveries of the next three will take place in the third and fourth quarter of 2025.
The statement adds that cutting-edge turboprop will complement the airline’s existing fleet of 12 ATR 72-600. Operating primarily from its main hub at Taipei Songshan Airport, Mandarin Airlines plays a pivotal role in Taiwan’s domestic network, offering essential connections to eight key destinations, including the islands of Kinmen, Penghu and Matsu.
Reliable air services ensure consistent access to essential goods, services, and transportation for residents and businesses, in addition to stimulating economic growth and fostering social integration.
Nathalie Tarnaud Laude
“The addition of this new ATR 72-600 underscores our confidence in ATR as the preferred platform to serve the island’s domestic markets responsibly. The turboprop’s exceptional fuel efficiency, low operating costs and reliability make it the perfect choice to strengthen our current routes and explore new services to further stimulate the local economy and tourism sector across Taiwan,’’ says Kao Shing-Hwang, Chairman, Mandarin Airlines.
“Mandarin Airlines has been consistently unlocking new opportunities for the Taiwanese communities in a responsible and cost-effective manner over the past seven years. We are grateful for their continued trust in ATR’s capabilities, which stands as a testament to the relevance of our product for their operations, and are strongly committed to providing them with continuous support, ensuring reliable and profitable operations long into the future,” says Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer, ATR.