Plans to introduce the larger Air Chathams SAAB 340 to Whakatāne have come to fruition with the first flights beginning November 29.

With demand continuing to grow for air travel to and from the region, the SAAB can cater for up to 34 passengers, almost doubling the existing Metroliner service at 19 seats.

The SAAB is faster, larger and more comfortable than the Metroliner and will be used for peak demand services initially.

Passengers on Friday afternoon flights from Auckland at 3.15pm and 6.35pm and well as those travelling from Whakatane at 4.45pm can look forward to flying in the larger SAAB 340.

Higher levels of customer service will be provided with a flight attendant on board serving tea, coffee and Tim Tams as they do on other regional flights.

The SAAB's also have toilet facilities on board unlike the smaller Metroliner.

It will also operate the Saturday morning 8am departure to Auckland, Sunday flights from Auckland to Whakatane departing at 11am and 6.15pm, Whakatane to Auckland at 4.45pm on Saturday and the early Monday morning flight to Auckland at 6.45am.

While the timing is perfect for the upcoming summer holiday period, Air Chathams will monitor and assess ongoing demand.

'We're really excited to begin bringing the SAAB to Whakatane,” says Air Chathams' general manager Duane Emeny.

'We know our regular fliers will appreciate the extra comforts provided and this will give us some flexibility across the service where other flights exceed the Metroliner capacity. We hope to be able to offer the SAAB service more permanently in the future.”

Whakatane District Mayor Judy Turner says the SAAB service will help to boost visitor numbers to the Whakatāne District just in time for the busy summer season.

'This is great news for our district, and will be beneficial for locals and visitors alike,” says Judy.

'We're grateful that our investment into the airport is being supported by Air Chathams', and the SAAB service is a great example of the airline's commitment to the Whakatane District.”

An invitation-only event is to be held on Wednesday, November 27, in conjunction with the Whakatane District Council for media and selected guests.

It will be an occasion to mark the growth of the regional service and allow guests to board and view the SAAB 340 before flights commence.