Aurigny moves to buy new ATRs with fog-beating tech
Aurigny has signed a letter of intent to buy three new ATRs with fog-busting technology.
The deal is subject to the approval of the States.
The ATR 72-600s are expected to replace the three ATR 72-500s operated by the airline.
They will feature the new ClearVision Enhanced Vision System, which uses an external camera to display an augmented outside-view in real-time to a head-mounted visor, worn by the pilot.
This is designed to improve a pilot’s vision and could have saved half of the 48 forbidden landings in Guernsey during a year.
Aurigny chief executive officer, Mark Darby, said: ‘Once we have the approval from the States of Guernsey to proceed, the entry into service of the new aircraft equipped with the new ClearVision system will reduce flight disruptions, which will be very good news for the people of Guernsey, who rely on air travel for essential connectivity.
‘Beyond beating the fog, upgrading to the -600 series will also further enhance the operational efficiency of Aurigny.
‘We are also excited about welcoming our passengers into the modern ATR cabin and offering them even more comfort when they fly.’
ATR anticipates that in the next 20 years there will be a need for more than 3,000 turboprops while regional air traffic will grow 4.5% on a yearly basis.
ATR chief executive Christian Scherer said: ‘Aurigny’s pioneering use of ClearVision will be a first in commercial aviation, here in Europe.
‘Being the first to offer such a solution to our clients and operators demonstrates ATR’s constant desire to match their needs. In the regional aviation market, many airlines fly in challenging locations and ClearVision offers an opportunity to give pilots increased visibility and improved situational awareness without requiring expensive upgrades to an airport’s infrastructure – which in many occasions may even be completely unfeasible.’
In making the announcement, ATR also confirmed that four other airlines had made commitments for new aircraft.
Drukair, the national carrier of Bhutan, has signed for an ATR 42-600; Air Saint-Pierre has signed an MOU for an ATR 42-600; Air Botswana has ordered two ATR 72-600s; and EWA Air, based in Mayotte, has signed an MOU for two ATR 72-600s.
