Thou hath got thyself into a bit of a muddle.
The runways can’t handle ATR 72s. From a length perspective an ATR 42 (possibly with the additional thrust package) well below MTOW could use the runway but the runway and apron are insufficient in terms of strength and I imagine width.
Aurigny is supporting the Ports of Guernsey and in the next couple of weeks as part of the study an ATR will make some low-level approaches into Alderney without landing.
Mr Bezuidenhout continued: “Although this work does not necessarily mean the runway will be extended, it is important work to ensure the right fix for the future of Alderney services by weighing up the cost and benefit of the various options.”
Aurigny is committed to regular daily return services between Guernsey and Alderney and Alderney and Southampton whatever the outcome of the study and any future aircraft. The service levels between the island are and will continue to be based on demand and will seasonally fluctuate.
Deputy Peter Roffey noted: “Ensuring service delivery that enable economic development and social wellbeing is critical in every society. Through the PSO we have secured services today, whilst keeping an eye on future-proofing infrastructure to be fit-for-purpose for delivery into the future.”
Bill Abel, Chairman of Alderney’s Policy & Finance Committee, said: "The planned test approaches show the thoroughness that is being applied to the evaluation of the proposed extension of the runway to accommodate the use of ATRs and we look forward to the completion of this important report later this year.” Ends
The idea will be to look at the ATR’s tolerance for Alderney from an operational point of view, ie wind-shear over the cliffs on approach to runway 08, etc.