WATCH: Aurigny's new aircraft has arrived with a fresh lick of paint
THE first of Aurigny's three new ATRs landed in Guernsey this afternoon.
G-OATR is due to go into service next week, while use of its 'fog-busting' technology should start next year.
The States has guaranteed a $60m. loan for the new planes.
Aurigny’s chief executive officer Mark Darby said: 'We are very proud of Aurigny’s role in providing essential connectivity between Guernsey and the United Kingdom. Our customers depend on the services that we provide, and we want to deliver them the very best. Our ATR fleet has been key in that for many years and upgrading our fleet will allow us both to optimise our operations with the very latest avionics while providing our passengers with a modern, comfortable cabin, in which they can relax and enjoy their flights.'
Aurigny are the launch customer for the ClearVision enhanced vision system which has been fitted to the aircraft.
Once Aurigny’s pilots have completed their conversion training next year this will enable landings in lower visibility.
The new aircraft should help reduce the airline’s operating costs and aid operations.
An ATR 72-600 burns up to 40% less fuel and is said to emit 40% less CO2 per passenger seat compared to a regional jet.
Stefano Bortoli, chief executive officer of ATR, said: 'Regional airlines often have a tough job and it is our role to make sure that we do everything that we can to support them. When an airline upgrades its ATR fleet to the latest generation -600 Series, it tells us that what we have delivered has supported their operations and that they trust us to continue delivering innovations that will make a genuine and positive impact in the future.'
A spokesperson for Aurigny said: 'As we understand the significance of a new plane and the interest this generates from the public of Guernsey, therefore an open day is being arranged for people to view G-OATR at Guernsey airport – more details of this will be released shortly.'
Aurigny's performance is in the spotlight.
It is was expected to lose £7.6m. this year, up from an budgeted £4.4m. loss, while the 2020 Budget is for a £9.6m. loss.
Aurigny have supplied a video of the aircraft being painted. See below:
