Aurigny’s Only Jet Departs from Guernsey for the Final Time
Well it’s with a heavy heart I’ve to post this. But this aircraft means so much to use at Final Approach. This aircraft has been at the forefront of all our media and socials from day one. But the only Aurigny Embraer 195 has been sold.
I was so lucky to be able to see it and travel on it numerous times.
Aurigny Air Services marked the end of an era as its only jet, an Embraer 195, made its final flight from Guernsey to the United Kingdom, ahead of its sale. The aircraft, which flew without passengers, was introduced to the airline’s fleet in 2014.
In November, Aurigny announced its decision to sell the Embraer 195 to enhance operational efficiency and streamline services. Since March, the jet had been operating on a reduced schedule due to reliability concerns, a factor contributing to the airline’s recent scheduling challenges.
Nico Bezuidenhout, CEO of Aurigny, acknowledged the aircraft’s diminishing reliability and the high maintenance costs as key reasons for its sale. “It is a good aircraft, but it is getting older and it is an extremely, extremely expensive aircraft to maintain,” Bezuidenhout stated.
Aurigny is shifting its focus to a standardized fleet of ATR 72-600 planes. These smaller, propeller-powered aircraft are expected to reduce costs and improve service reliability. The airline has emphasized that ATRs are better suited for shorter routes and offer significant environmental benefits. According to Aurigny, ATRs consume 36% less fuel per passenger on the Guernsey to Gatwick route compared to jet aircraft.
The departure of the Embraer 195 represents a strategic move towards a more sustainable and cost-effective future for Aurigny, aligning with the airline’s commitment to environmental stewardship and operational efficiency.
All the very best Aurigny Air Embraer 195 in your new home.