Aurigny’s first service by Twin Otter in Skybus livery took to the skies over the Channel Islands on Saturday 1st November 2025.
Following this historic event, on Monday 3rd November, the new aircraft was officially welcomed to Alderney by Bill Abel, Chair of Policy & Finance in the States of Alderney, and Nico Bezuidenhout, Chief Executive Officer of Aurigny.
A special commemorative cake in Aurigny’s colours, made locally on Alderney, was cut by Steve Parilla, Aurigny’s Station Manager in Alderney – and was greatly enjoyed by attending dignitaries and customers waiting to board their flight.
“This service by the world-renowned De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft represents both a significant landmark in the history of Alderney’s aviation and a new era in building ever more reliable, stable, and sustainable service on the lifeline routes between Alderney and Guernsey, as well as between Alderney and Southampton,” Nico Bezuidenhout, CEO of Aurigny stated. “This is a proud day for us all, particularly considering Aurigny was born out of Alderney. This step provides us with the right platform to ensure financial sustainability for this vital service well into the future.”
Bill Abel, Chair of Policy & Finance in the States of Alderney, said: “We now have a much more resilient service than we’ve had for some time for the island of Alderney. Compared to the Dornier, this service is a lot more robust. Aurigny’s continued positive support for the island is appreciated.”
The Twin Otter services are operated on behalf of Aurigny by Isles of Scilly Skybus, a British airline with over 40 years’ experience and recognised for their expertise in operating this aircraft type. Initially, the Skybus Twin Otter aircraft with the registration G-ISSG will be operating on the routes.
Jonathan Hinkles, Managing Director at Skybus, said: “The progress we have made together in a short period of time is remarkable and underlines our shared commitment to the community of Alderney. Our prime objective is to deliver a highly dependable service both for Aurigny and its passengers.”
Pictured – Left to right: Philip Saunders, Chief Commercial Officer & Nico Bezuidenhout, Chief Executive Officer at Aurigny, Emily Curnow, Deputy Chief Pilot & Cliff Ward, Chief Training Captain at Skybus.
