Twin Otter enters service in Alderney
- Aurigny has launched its first service using the Twin Otter aircraft.
- The new service was officially welcomed in Alderney by local officials on 3rd November.
- The Twin Otter is replacing the Dornier 228.
- Aurigny aims for increased reliability and sustainability in its future operations.
Aurigny has officially launched its first service featuring the Twin Otter aircraft, which took to the skies over the Channel Islands on 1st November.
This event was celebrated with a welcoming event on 3rd November.
Bill Abel, Chair of Policy & Finance in the States of Alderney, alongside Nico Bezuidenhout, Chief Executive Officer of Aurigny, were present for the special occasion.
“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,” stated Bezuidenhout.
He added that this transition provides a foundation for financial sustainability of the service for the future.
Abel 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.”
He also acknowledged Aurigny’s ongoing support for the island.
The Twin Otter services are operated on behalf of Aurigny by Isles of Scilly Skybus, a British airline.
The initial routes will be serviced by the Skybus Twin Otter aircraft, registered as G-ISSG.
Managing Director of Skybus, Jonathan Hinkles, remarked, “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.”
As the service transitions, flights to and from Alderney will still utilise the existing Aurigny Dornier 228 NG fleet alongside the Twin Otter.
Aurigny has noted that, like any transition, challenges may arise and requests passengers provide feedback through Aurigny’s Post Flight Survey to enhance service quality from the start.
A dedicated Twin Otter is set to enter service later in the year. This aircraft will be refurbished with overhauled engines, advanced avionics, and a redesigned interior.
In early January 2026, Aurigny plans to retire the Dornier 228 NG fleet, ensuring that a back-up Skybus Twin Otter aircraft is permanently available on-site to maintain resilience and reliability.
In a nod to tradition at the official launch, a cake in Aurigny’s colours, crafted locally on Alderney, was cut by Steve Parilla, Aurigny’s Station Manager in Alderney, and enjoyed by dignitaries and passengers.
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