Dublin, Ireland – ACIA Aero Leasing has completed a sale-and-leaseback transaction for two ATR 72-600 passenger aircraft operated by EWA Air, the regional carrier majority owned by Air Austral.
The deal, announced on March 6, 2026, bolsters ACIA’s portfolio of ATR operators and sustains EWA Air’s connectivity across the Indian Ocean. The aircraft link remote communities to major cities and feed passengers into Air Austral’s long-haul network, particularly serving Mayotte as a key economic hub.
Hugues Marchessaux, CEO of Air Austral and Chairman of EWA Air, stated: “This marks a new stage for EWA, consolidating its operations and embarking on a new partnership with ACIA. I would like to thank the ACIA team for their support and the dynamism they demonstrated in completing this successful sale-and-leaseback transaction. This partnership opens new perspectives for our company, deeply rooted in our regional territory.”
The ATR 72-600, powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127M turboprops each delivering 2,500 shp, features a Thales Avionics glass cockpit and enhanced passenger amenities including wider overhead bins. With a maximum takeoff weight of 22,800 kg, it offers a range of 825 nautical miles at a cruise speed of 275 knots, takeoff distance of 1,333 meters, and landing distance of 914 meters under standard conditions. Rate of climb stands at 1,355 feet per minute, supporting efficient regional operations.
ACIA, based in Dublin, specializes in regional aircraft leasing and management, serving operators in over 22 countries.