Aurigny has agreed a multi-year extension to its Public Service Obligation to fly the lifeline route between Alderney and Guernsey.
The airline has also confirmed it is working with Skybus – the airline of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company – to bring two Twin Otters in to fly between the islands.
Skybus will provide the two small aircraft along with maintenance, crew training, and insurance.
Aurigny’s Chief Executive Nico Bezuidenhout said it’s good news all round for inter-island travel.
“The new air service model is a win-win for the Bailiwick – it strengthens Alderney’s vital air links with more resilience in the fleet while also delivering better long-term value – helping to secure the future of these vital air services for our communities.
“Skybus have an in-depth understanding of the importance and complexity involved in delivering air services to small island communities, operating in challenging environments very similar to our own. Their proven expertise makes them an excellent fit to support Aurigny in delivering safe, reliable and resilient services for Alderney.”
The States of Alderney’s Policy & Finance Committee said its pleased that Aurigny has been awarded a multi-year extension to its Public Service Obligation.
Chair of P&F, Bill Abel said: “This is fantastic news for our island community”.
“There are several positives for us – the high level of resilience of this service; the increased flexibility that Twin Otters will bring; and the overall reduction in risk associated with our ‘aging’ runway,” he said.
“This decision is of significant benefit to Alderney and will do much to improve the image of the Island and reduce the potential risks associated with our runway. We look forward to continuing our working relationship with Guernsey”.
The two Twin Otter aircrafts will start flying between Guernsey and Alderney from November.
The new aircraft will also play an integral role in delivering air ambulance, mail, freight, and pet travel services to and from Alderney.
Jonathan Hinkles, Managing Director at Skybus, said his team are excited about the new partnership.
“We’re delighted to be working with Aurigny to deliver Alderney’s vital air services under this exciting new long-term agreement. We very much look forward to combining the experience and capability of Skybus and Aurigny – totalling nearly 100 years in all – to provide dependable service for the whole community in Alderney long into the future.”