Aurigny
The order for three ATR 72-600 aircraft follows an approval granted by the States of Guernsey. Credit: ATR.

Guernsey-based airline Aurigny has placed an order with French turboprop manufacturer ATR for the purchase of three ATR 72-600 aircraft.

The order follows an approval granted by the States of Guernsey and the signing of a letter of intention at last year’s Farnborough Airshow.

Aurigny is expected to take delivery of the first plane of the series in August.

Aurigny CEO Mark Darby said: “The opportunity to modernise our fleet, allowing us to offer our customers the very latest standards of comfort whilst introducing technology that will minimise disruption to their travel, makes perfect sense.

“Aurigny plays a key role in assuring vital connectivity between Guernsey and the UK and Europe.

“These new aircraft are going to make a significant difference both to our flight operations and to the people of Guernsey.”

“These new aircraft are going to make a significant difference both to our flight operations and to the people of Guernsey.”

Aurigny’s new ATR 72-600 aircraft will feature the ClearVision enhanced vision system (EVS), thereby becoming the launch customer of the new EVS.

Provided as an option on ATR’s latest avionics suite, ClearVision is designed to utilise an external camera to display an improved outside-view in real-time to a head-mounted visor worn by the pilot.

The technology can significantly improve the pilot’s vision. It can also help Aurigny’s crew to conduct smooth flight operations in the English Channel, which is regularly affected by fog.

According to a study, an ATR equipped with ClearVision is estimated to save 50% of the disrupted landings in Guernsey within a year.

ATR CEO Stefano Bortoli said: “Aurigny’s new ATRs, equipped with ClearVision, will reduce delays and cancellations for its passengers.”

Earlier this year, ATR secured a firm order from commercial passenger aircraft leasing company Avation to provide eight new 72-600 aircraft.