Aurigny jet has been sold
Aurigny has completed the sale of its jet.
The airline has sold the Embraer E195 to Azorra - a commercial aircraft lessor that operates from Fort Lauderdale in America, and Dublin in Ireland.
'The Embraer E195 is a very good aircraft that has served islanders and visitors well over the last decade. However, simplifying our fleet is essential for enhancing the sustainability and resilience of Guernsey’s air connectivity,' said Aurigny CEO Nico Bezuidenhout.
'Therefore, the decision has been made to remove the Embraer from Aurigny’s fleet.'
The change means that Aurigny will now operate two Dornier aircraft to service Alderney, while Guernsey services will be served by three ATRs owned by the airline. It is also in the process of bringing in two ATR aircraft on long-term leases.
The jet, which has been in service with Aurigny since 2014, has flown routes to the UK and Europe.
It was taken out of service at the end of May due to needing an expensive service and was put into storage.
It made a final trip to Guernsey last week ahead of the sale before returning to Exeter.
Azorra chief marketing officer Michael Davis said the E195 was in high demand.
'This opportunity to assist Aurigny is complementary to supporting the capacity needs of our existing Embraer customer base,' he said.
Aurigny has previously stated it is focusing on having an ATR fleet as they are more fuel efficient at low altitudes and speeds, making them better suited to shorter flights.
However the aircraft are smaller than the jet, carrying 72 passengers compared with the jet's 122.
