TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Uni Air on Friday signed a NT$12.86 billion (US$437 million) deal for 19 new ATR 72-600 jets on the back of rising travel demand.

The deal includes options for three additional planes and supports the carrier’s focus on strengthening its domestic network, per CNA. The new planes will enter service starting in 2027, with the full batch delivered by 2032.

Uni Air Chair Lin Chih-chung (林志忠) said the upgrade will increase flight frequency and improve scheduling flexibility. He added the company holds a near 60% market share in domestic routes, serving not only business travelers but also residents in offshore islands.

ATR CEO Nathalie Tarnaud Laude said she was confident in the renewed partnership, emphasizing ATR’s commitment to connecting communities through efficient regional aircraft.

Uni Air called ATR 72-600 the world’s best-selling turboprop passenger plane, with over 1,900 units delivered worldwide. The new aircraft features PW127XT engines, delivering 3% better fuel efficiency and up to 20% lower maintenance costs. Seating capacity will be set at 72 passengers, increasing capacity by 3%.

Uni Air operates Taiwan’s most frequent domestic routes, with 16 lines, eight exclusively served by Uni, and over 700 weekly flights. To celebrate the expansion, a special domestic travel promotion will run from July 29 for 19 days, offering fares starting at NT$1,419.