Arrival of fifth ATR 'major milestone' for Aurigny

Aurigny said the arrival of the fifth ATR 72-600 was a major milestone for the airline and the island's connectivity

Aurigny said it has reached a "major milestone" in fleet development after taking delivery of its fifth aircraft from manufacturer ATR.

The Guernsey government-owned airline said the arrival marked the latest milestone in its strategy to streamline its operations, improve network resilience and sustainability.

It said the fifth ATR 72-600 aircraft completed the planned transition to a "rationalised fleet" including two Dornier 228 NG used to serve Alderney.

It said the latest aircraft was the latest and "most fuel-efficient series" from ATR.

Safety checks

The airline said: "Before its entry into service for the Guernsey community, the aircraft (OY-NZB), soon to be registered as G-PBOT in honour of Guernsey’s Petit Bot beach, will undergo rigorous checks by Aurigny’s engineering team and the Civil Aviation Authority.

"This is a standard process to ensure airworthiness, safety and regulatory compliance.

"Island communities have often been cited as some of those most vulnerable to the effects of climate change - thus an important fleet planning consideration for regional airlines such as Aurigny."

CEO of Aurigny Nico Bezuidenhout said: “This is a positive step forward for Aurigny and for its provision of reliable, sustainable, and purposeful air connectivity for the bailiwick.

"I’d like to express my thanks to our committed team who have been focused on preparing for this all-important addition to our fleet."

The airline added flights between Guernsey and London Gatwick consumed 36% less fuel per passenger when operated by the ATR72-600 than the jet aircraft that previously operated the route.