SUM Air has moved to secure its future fleet with an order for up to eight ATR 72-600 turboprops, days after launching commercial operations in South Korea.
The newly established regional carrier confirmed a firm order for four aircraft, alongside four purchase rights, with deliveries expected to begin in 2028. The agreement was signed in Seoul during a bilateral economic forum attended by the French president
The carrier began operations at the end of March after securing its Air Operator Certificate earlier in the month, following a certification process that lasted more than three years. Its initial route links Seoul Gimpo with Sacheon, on the country’s southern coast.
Founded in 2022, SUM Air is entering a segment that has seen limited development in South Korea, where traffic remains concentrated on high-density routes served by jets. The airline is targeting secondary cities, planned island airports and short-haul international destinations in Japan and China.
The aircraft type is commonly used on short-haul regional routes and at airports with operational constraints that limit jet traffic.
SUM Air plans to expand its network as new infrastructure comes online, including the future airport on Ulleungdo Island. Other destinations under consideration include Baengnyeongdo and Heuksando, areas that currently rely on maritime links.
ATR expects demand for 25 to 30 aircraft of this class in South Korea over the coming years, as airlines explore regional routes outside the main hubs.
