First Air operated the ATR 42-300 as part of its fleet for regional routes, particularly in the Canadian North. The airline used the aircraft's ability to operate on gravel runways and in harsh conditions to serve remote communities. First Air's ATR 42-300. First Air had a long history of ATR operations. In February 2016, the airline introduced the ATR 42-500 to replace its older ATR 42-300 series aircraft. First Air operated both the standard ATR 42-300 and the ATR 42-300(QC), a "quick-change" version that could be reconfigured for passengers or cargo. The ATR 42-300 was a workhorse for the airline in the Canadian Arctic, flying to remote destinations like Rankin Inlet and Pangnirtung. Later, the upgraded ATR 42-500 continued to service routes from Yellowknife to Hay River and other communities in Nunavut. In addition to flying ATRs, First Air ran Canada's largest ATR maintenance and engineering facility, performing heavy maintenance for other operators. Fleet transition: First Air was merged with Canadian North in 2019. The newer ATR 42-500s were retained in the fleet, while the older 300 series aircraft were phased out.