Aurigny to Replace Do228s With Damp-Leased DHC-6s From Skybus

Aurigny Air Services will replace its two Dornier 228-212(NG) aircraft with damp-leased DHC-6-300 Twin Otters from Skybus as part of a new long-term partnership. The transition is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025 and supports the airline’s extended Public Service Obligation (PSO) for routes between Alderney, Guernsey, and Southampton.

Skybus will add two additional DHC-6-300s to its existing fleet of four and begin operating from Alderney starting November 1, 2025. Aurigny’s Do228s will remain in service until year-end to ensure a smooth handover. Aurigny pilots will have the option to retrain on either the Twin Otters with Skybus or ATR72-600s with Aurigny.

Skybus Managing Director Jonathan Hinkles highlighted the Twin Otters’ role in handling not only passenger flights but also air ambulance, mail, freight, and pet services to and from Alderney. He emphasized that Skybus will rotate spare aircraft from its fleet during maintenance periods to ensure reliability and service continuity.

With Alderney operations outsourced, Aurigny will focus on its core network using its in-house fleet of five ATR72-600s based out of Guernsey.

Hinkles noted that the agreement brings year-round operational stability and allows Skybus to invest further in infrastructure and staffing. The partnership aligns with Skybus’s goal of expanding its Twin Otter fleet and leveraging its experience in lifeline island services.

Separately, Aurigny has been unable to secure slots at London Heathrow for winter 2025/26 and will continue serving the UK capital exclusively through its London Gatwick route.

Related News: https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/airline-finance/

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com