We ought to try and preserve G-Joey brand
I NOTE with pleasure that Aurigny has recently been voted 'the world's best short-haul airline of the year'. Very well done. That the Bailiwick's own airline is so highly regarded internationally must be good news.
The focused effort by Aurigny to further develop and strengthen their company by upgrading the aircraft they operate is wise, but what to do with the strong and positive brand image that already exists?
The iconic Trislander G-JOEY, with the wonderful children's books by Peter Seaborne and associated fan club, are powerful, well-loved and long established marketing assets that are known throughout the world and should, surely, be saved, treasured and developed – even after the aircraft type itself is phased out.
Might the Guernsey Press, in conjunction with Aurigny, run a competition to establish the best idea to achieve this? One that I have been thinking of since learning that the Trislanders might soon be phased out is to preserve G-JOEY, suspended from the ceiling within the new terminal building at Guernsey Airport.
At first glance, there would seem insufficient space, but I believe there is one position, tight but perhaps just possible, above the check-in area and adjacent to the staircase/lift, with G-JOEY facing the upper level cafe lounge area.
Those people viewing from beneath would see G-JOEY still flying overhead while those looking at him from upstairs would see him head on and close up, at their own level – exciting, fun for all and unique to Guernsey. To reduce the suspended weight, the engines, seats and other equipment could easily be removed.
Does anyone else have another idea?
MARK HARRISSON
Brecqhou Island.
