Aurigny has announced that it has been awarded a multi-year extension to its Public Service Obligation contract, further securing the future of air services between Alderney and Guernsey, as well as Alderney and Southampton.
As part of the airline’s proposals to make its services more financially sustainable and to increase service resilience, it proposed teaming up with Skybus, the airline of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company, which has over 40 years of experience serving remote communities. Skybus will provide aircraft, maintenance, crew training and insurance to Aurigny.
From 1 November 2025, two DHC6-300 Twin Otter aircraft will operate in Aurigny colours to and from the island of Alderney. The aircraft will also play an integral role in delivering air ambulance, mail, freight, and pet travel services to and from Alderney. Dornier 228 Pilots at Aurigny will be provided with the opportunity to re-train to operate the new Twin Otter fleet or transition onto the ATR72-600.
Skybus will also provide replacement aircraft from within its fleet to cover periods of maintenance as part of the agreement, and Aurigny will continue to provide Dornier 228 capacity until the end of the year, to ensure a smooth transition. These steps will be important factors in delivering a high level of resilience for Alderney’s air links.
The move allows Aurigny to simplify its procurement and maintenance operations by focusing on its ATR fleet, improving efficiency across the wider Guernsey network.
Nico Bezuidenhout, Chief Executive at Aurigny, said: “The new air service model is a win-win for the Bailiwick – it strengthens Alderney’s vital air links with more resilience in the fleet while also delivering better long-term value – helping to secure the future of these vital air services for our communities.
“Skybus have an in-depth understanding of the importance and complexity involved in delivering air services to small island communities, operating in challenging environments very similar to our own. Their proven expertise makes them an excellent fit to support Aurigny in delivering safe, reliable and resilient services for Alderney.”
Jonathan Hinkles, Managing Director at Skybus, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Aurigny to deliver Alderney’s vital air services under this exciting new long-term agreement. We very much look forward to combining the experience and capability of Skybus and Aurigny – totalling nearly 100 years in all – to provide dependable service for the whole community in Alderney long into the future.”