Airlines Aurigny welcomes new Dornier 228 to its fleet

After the retirement of the popular Britten Norman Trislander, Channel Island operator Aurigny is gradually renewing its fleet. Now with G-ETAC, the carrier has received its second new generation Dornier 228 turboprop aircraft.

The initial arrival of the new aircraft had been delayed by manufacturer RUAG, which then provided Aurigny with another Dornier aircraft as compensation. Now that G-ETAC has been delivered, the loan for RUAG´s Dornier aircraft comes to an end.

Aurigny CEO Mark Darby said: “We are delighted to take delivery of G-ETAC. The aircraft is equipped with the latest New Generation systems and has comfortable seats, to provide the very best customer experience.

Later this week, the aircraft is expected to operate its maiden commercial flight. It will then join G-OMAF on inter-island flying. Back in 2015, Aurigny received its first Dornier 228 for fleet renewal purposes. Together, both aircraft will form the airline´s backbone. The investment of the second aircraft is especially thought for the airline´s operations in Alderney.

The States of Alderney CEO Andrew Muter commented: “I’m delighted with the news that the new Dornier will shortly be serving Alderney. The availability of reliable, modern aircraft with up to date technology is a real plus for the Island and for its visitors. I very much welcome this investment by Aurigny and look forward to flying in the new plane.”

Aurigny Air Services is a regional airline, headquartered at Guernsey Airport on the Channel Islands, UK. Aurigny was founded in February 1968 and mostly operates inter-island flights between Jersey, Guernsey and Alderney. In 2014, the carrier took delivery of an Embraer 195 twinjet, which now operates routes to London. Besides the E195, the fleet consists of three ATR 72-500, one ATR 42-500 and two Dornier 228.