Canada’s RiseAir has invested in an ATR 42-500. The turboprop will be based in Saskatoon and will provide workforce transportation to the resource sector.

Communications director Dan Gold says: “It’s a really exciting time. There have been opportunities that we have really made the most of, having set out on a 100 million CAD fleet replacement plan. A key part of that was bringing a second ATR 42-500 into the fleet.”

CEO Derek Nice adds: “Acquiring this aircraft is testament to our ongoing efforts to elevate the passenger experience in Saskatchewan, and we’re excited to introduce more passengers across the north to the benefits of this quieter, faster aircraft.”

Gold continues: “It really represents an upgrade to our existing fleet of three ATR 320 aircraft, and the SAAB 340s which will be retired over a period of time. This is the second ATR 42-500 that we’ve taken in in the last 18 months. The previous one is dedicated to passenger service across our scheduled operations supporting indigenous communities. As we invest this money into the fleet we are also recognising that there are challenges across the whole of the aviation industry when it comes to securing experienced captains. From operator to operator it is the same challenge. So we have an opportunity to really let people know about the new adventure that awaits.”

Gold relocated from the UK to Canada seeking a fairer work/life balance and a better quality of life. As a Canadian aircraft operator, Rise has opportunities for experienced captains and AMEs from Canada, the UK, Europe and other regions.

“Canada is generally affordable, especially in places like Saskatchewan, with access to the great outdoors, arts, culture, major events, entertainment and so much more…for me it’s a wonderful, safe place to bring up a family,” Gold states.

“Most of our crews get to go home at night and have quality family time. A significant benefit of regional airlines is not having to live out of suitcases. We are also investing in people, which goes hand in hand for the future of our operation and the goals we have.”

He is thankful for the robust and stable economy, which supports RiseAir’s people. RiseAir is 100 per cent indigenous-owned by the communities it serves and headquartered in Saskatoon. The 28-aircraft fleet includes King Air B200s in medevac, commuter and executive configuration, Beechcraft 1900s, DHC-6 Twin Otters, SAAB 340s, a 1954 DHC-2 Beaver on floats and five ATR 42s.

Gold concludes: “More aircraft are joining the fleet soon, and we will require more highly skilled professional pilots to provide a safe, reliable service.”

In 2025, RiseAir will be marking 70 years of heritage, recognising the importance of commercial aviation in Canada.