Ryukyu Air Commuter Co (RAC), a subsidiary of Japan Airlines based in Okinawa, has taken delivery of the first Q400 turboprop to be manufactured by Bombardier in a cargo-passenger combi configuration.
The operator has ordered five of the type, which was unveiled at the Farnborough Airshow in 2014.
Takashi Irei, RAC president, said: “The Q400 cargo-combi aircraft offers the ideal platform for the evolution of our service. Increasing efficient air travel options around Japan’s Okinawa islands will provide strong economic and leisure advantages.”
Fred Cromer, president of Bombardier Commercial Aircraft, added: “By operating on routes with high cargo demand and medium to low passenger loads, RAC will benefit from the unique economic potential of the Q400 cargo-combi aircraft.”
The Q400 cargo-combi aircraft offers up to 32 cu metres of cargo volume and a maximum uplift of 4082 kg, together with up to 58 passengers.
