Aurigny sells jet to US-based aircraft leasing firm

Commercial aircraft lessor Azorra operates from Fort Lauderdale (USA) and Dublin

Aurigny has sold its only jet to commercial aircraft lessor Azorra, an airline spokesperson said.

The airline announced in November it would sell the Embraer E195, which was introduced in 2014, to provide a "more streamlined and efficient service".

Aurigny said the sale was part of its strategy to support the fleet transformation process, transitioning to a turboprop ATR fleet.

CEO Nico Bezuidenhout said the aircraft had served islanders and visitors well over the last decade.

Sustainability and resilience

Mr Bezuidenhout said simplifying Aurigny's fleet was "essential for enhancing the sustainability and resilience of Guernsey’s air connectivity".

"Therefore, the decision has been made to remove the Embraer from Aurigny’s fleet," he said.

ATR aircraft are designed to be more fuel-efficient at lower altitudes and speeds, making them ideal for shorter flight times, the airline said.

It said the Embraer E195 was used at lower altitudes than it was designed for, which prevented it from achieving the optimal height for fuel-efficient performance.

Chief marketing officer of Azorra Michael Davis said the Embraer E195 continued to be in high demand.

"This opportunity to assist Aurigny is complementary to supporting the capacity needs of our existing Embraer customer base," he said.

Aurigny said it would operate five turboprop ATR and two Dornier aircraft from September.