SUM Air, South Korea’s newest regional airline, has placed a firm order for four ATR 72-600 aircraft, with options for four more. Deliveries are set to begin in 2028.
The agreement was signed during the France–South Korea Bilateral Economic Forum in Seoul, attended by the President of the French Republic. SUM Air, founded in 2022, launched commercial operations in March 2026 using a leased ATR 72-600 from Avation. The airline received its Air Operator Certificate on March 10, 2026, and started its first scheduled route between Gimpo and Sacheon on March 31.
SUM Air plans to serve underserved regions of South Korea, including future island airports, and short-haul routes to Japan and China. The new aircraft will operate to destinations such as Ulleungdo, Baengnyeongdo, and Heuksando, building a hub-and-spoke network.
Yongduck Choi, President and CEO of SUM Air, stated: SUM Air’s mission is to strengthen regional connectivity across South Korea and to play a key role in developing aviation infrastructure to support regional development. Our partnership with ATR, a benchmark manufacturer in regional aviation, is central to this ambition. Starting with the Gimpo–Sacheon route, we will build a hub-and-spoke network connecting continental and island airports. The aircraft acquired under this agreement will be deployed to island destinations such as Ulleungdo, Baengnyeongdo, and Heuksando. The ATR 72-600, perfectly suited for short-haul flights, is a decisive asset for providing reliable air services connecting the islands and regions of South Korea.
Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Executive Chair of ATR, added: The ATR 72-600 exactly meets the type of regional connectivity SUM Air wants to develop. Its short runway performance allows access to island airports that jets cannot reach, while its excellent fuel efficiency and reduced operating costs make routes viable that would not be otherwise. With this aircraft, SUM Air will be able to sustainably serve South Korean communities, from east to west, from the mainland to future island airports, while maintaining viable and responsible operations.
ATR views South Korea as a high-potential market, estimating a fleet of 25 to 30 ATR 72s in coming years.