Japanese start-up carrier JCAS Airways has secured ¥200 million ($1.3 million) in a pre-Series A funding round as it aims to commence commercial operations in spring 2026.
The latest raise brings total funding to ¥650 million since the Tokyo-based company’s inception in July 2023. The announcement comes shortly after the regional carrier signed a 12-year contract with lessor Avation for a new ATR 72-600 aircraft.
The regional airline initially plans to connect Osaka’s Kansai International Airport with Toyama Airport and Yonago Airport, tapping into the potential of domestic regional airports to create new passenger flows. JCAS says it wants to address the growing demand for regional connectivity, revitalizing underserved routes while supporting local economies.
JCAS plans to put the latest funds raised toward equipment leasing, systems development and recruitment as it ramps up for its 2026 launch.
“Japanese communities rely massively on regional air links for everything from healthcare and trade to business and tourism, and JCAS Airways will contribute to revitalizing our country, boosting its economy, making cultural experiences accessible and maintaining a vital lifeline for the islanders of Japan,” JCAS CEO Seiji Shirane says.
October 2025 is penciled in for the airline to take the ATR 72-600, which will become the first aircraft in its fleet. Avation says the placement of the aircraft nearly a year ahead of its scheduled delivery is “an illustration of the strong demand” for the ATR 72 for regional air travel.
According to OAG Schedules Analyser data, there are no airlines offering flights from Osaka to either Toyama or Yonago at present.
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