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ALDERNEY

Old 19th Jul 2014, 09:13
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Well you ask a reasonable question Beaufort so I'l try and answer it. The fact is that not all six Tris are available at any given time. One of the main reasons for replacing them is the amount of maintenance now required to keep them flying. Certainly you're 'losing' six aircraft and replacing them by three. That is a simple fact BUT there will still be a 'spare' aircraft once the third Dornier is sourced and in the interim the LCY aircraft will be available, although not on 'immediate readiness'.

I hope that you can see that Alderney is gaining more seats. As I said, no airline today can afford to have spare aircraft just sitting around 'in case'. That leads to bankruptcy then you have no aircraft on the routes. There might well be small charter outfits who offer flights to Alderney but running a scheduled service is something completely different... I know, I've been involved with both types of operation. Finally, there is absolutely no guarantee that a new carrier would be able to get a slot at SOU, and the ACI-SOU route really is a lifeline. Other routes have been tried but they have all been dropped due to lack of support. No company can afford to have aircraft just sitting around or flying half-full, unless of course the ticket price is based on a very low seat occupancy rate, which inevitably means very expensive tickets.

I do know Alderney quite well, I was based there for a while with Air Sarnia and transited through with Aurigny. whilst I would and have gone back for a visit, one can 'do' the island in a very short time, and that is what non-aviating but sailing friends have also told me. Off-topic so apologies, but most yotties are just passing and have a limited cruising time, so whilst Alderney is a pleasant place to visit for perhaps a day and a night, other pleasures beckon. I know all about the 'Alderney roll' and believe me, it's not just when the wind is out of the NE! A marina might tempt more to visit but it's a financial gamble and I really don't think it would pay off. I'm sure we would agree there are other things that the money could be better spent on...improving the runway for one thing.
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Old 20th Jul 2014, 11:01
  #142 (permalink)  
 
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Alderney are not losing six Trislanders as not all six were purely for ACI services anyway. Two at least were dedicated to GCI-JER and are now no longer needed due to the Aurigny code share with SI. It seems to me that Alderney are lucky to have the services they do have, given the dwindling island population.
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Old 20th Jul 2014, 12:04
  #143 (permalink)  
 
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Well said Jerbourg........also needs saying that one or two tris were in the hangar being worked on so never more than 2dedicated to ACI.
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Old 20th Jul 2014, 13:13
  #144 (permalink)  
 
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For Alderney it's more a question if it was the hen or the egg that came first. Demografically Alderney had in the 2013 census only half as many 0-14 year old compared with the UK average in 2011 and almost twice as many 65+. Looking deeper in to the Alderney census it is very clear that families with children have moved from the island since the turn of the century and left behind an even older population. I'm guessing you will the same happening to the other Channel Islands as well as for the Isles of Scilly and may be other more and less remote islands up along the west coast of Britain.

Is it higher demand for travel that is not met or has it become that more difficult to earn enough money to maintain a good life at such a remote location the last years?
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Old 21st Jul 2014, 11:16
  #145 (permalink)  
 
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LN-KGL - re your question regarding maintaining the good life and hence ability to support air travel.....figures for GDP for Dec 2013 show:

Jersey 57000 dollars 7th in world
Norway 54200 dollars 9th
USA. 49000 dollars 12th
Guernsey 44600 dollars 14th
UK. 36600 dollars 34th

I think we need to look elsewhere for an explanation

Last edited by cobopete; 21st Jul 2014 at 12:29. Reason: Remove typos
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Old 21st Jul 2014, 13:47
  #146 (permalink)  
 
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I was nearly correct in my recollection of the colour scheme of Air Sarnia, it was the islander that had the maroon trim. I still have absolutely no recollection of the tri's though.

I agree with the statement that the SOU/ACI is a lifeline and I think that is what is concerning local residents and why approx. 7.5% of the population turned out for the meeting last week. I didn't make the meeting as I had something else on unfortunately. It has been reported in the local press and there is genuine concern about this link being lost.

According to one article I've read the cost of a new tri is half the cost of one of the Dornier's and the overall running costs are also a lot less. The CAA and the European Authority have agreed the new tri's meet the necessary requirements. People are just wondering at some of the reasoning. I've been accused along with other residents of not listening but so far nobody can/will provide us with a breakdown of the £900,000 loss a year the Alderney route is allegedly costing.

Jerbourg where did I say Alderney were losing six tri's? I didn't, having six overall gives you greater flexibility and resilience throughout all your routes. Not all three Dorniers will be used on the Alderney route either; not with the GCI/LCY and the GCI/DIN route having to be serviced.

fudpucker No, sorry, I still can't see how replacing six available aircraft in your fleet with three gives a greater seating capacity. The Dornier will also have to have maintenance and will also have to be taken out of service.
There is drainage work being completed on the grass runway at present. I think in the region of £180k was spent on this work after the heavy rainfall last winter meant the grass runway being closed.
I don't remember there being any objection in regard to aged aircraft when Air UK were using the geriatric Fk27's and Guernsey Airlines using the Viscounts.
The marina should be built by the States, look at the QEII marina in St. Peter Port, don't tell the mooring holders but they have effectively paid for the marina and the QEII car park many times over, and the East arm pontoon provides a useful spill over for larger visiting craft, and is a good source of extra revenue.

In regard to a dwindling population there are steps being taken locally (See here:Living Islands initiative | Alderney ? The Channel Island ) we have all just endured the biggest recession since the 1930's, property sales are reputed to be slowly picking up though, and the island seems noticeably busier; speaking with local builders/trades they are all saying there is more work around.
I wonder also at what has changed re some of the routes no longer with us and why they are no longer profitable? The populations of both Guernsey and Jersey have increased since the introduction and axing of routes to Cherbourg and the Dinard route cut back. Cherbourg has a significant population and I would think second home ownership in France is as popular amongst CI residents as ever despite the efforts of the French Government with recent tax developments. Speaking of routes, the rot in regards to numbers dwindling on the SOU/ACI leg seems to be halting and I think there was a small increase reported in the first few months of this year.

Demographics and work practices are constantly changing. The census carried out in April 2013 revealed there were 1900 of us living here. Perhaps with the advent of the internet and video conferencing people no longer need to travel as much for the purposes of business, who knows. All the Channel Islands are feeling the pinch in regard to tourist numbers, in part due no doubt to the low cost airlines and destinations to warmer climes, although saying that Jersey are reporting better numbers this season, and is it coincidence that Easy jet are now flying there?
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Old 24th Jul 2014, 00:34
  #147 (permalink)  
 
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requirement for aircaft to service alderney

I fail to understand how some people feel they are owed a service and demand how many aircraft service there route. Aurigny ran 3 aircraft on the jersey route 2 flying daily plus spare /maintenance. also for the last 2-3 years 2 have serviced alderney daily with 1 maintenance/ spare. now the Jersey route is closed only 3 are needed , if these are replaced with the 228 the service will be increased. and the probability is for london city to be on ATR 72s . the only problem is there will be less capability to up the flights for alderney week as jerseys spare aircraft wont be there in the future, but one cant demand aircraft are kept spare all year just to cover 1 -2 weeks peak.
the Trislander has done its time and given good service i havent heard one CURENT tris pilot wish to keep it the 228 has major performance advantages over the trislander that lead to major safety increases. roll on the future.
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Old 24th Jul 2014, 07:31
  #148 (permalink)  
 
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I fail to understand why a community should not show interest in the monopoly that provides their air links, neither businesses nor politicians are especially trustworthy and questioning both seems prudent.

Like many I do not care what aircraft are used, just so long as the two (once three) routes remain.

Why would airline bosses get "upset" at having their plans scrutinised.
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Old 24th Jul 2014, 08:17
  #149 (permalink)  
 
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It is entirely reasonable for the residents of a small island to take interest in the future plans of a primary transport provider.
However, airline bosses are not politicians and can ultimately serve only one master. If the priorities set by politicians are not to the liking of a section of the population, you end up with airline bosses having to start playing political games and enter popularity contests to keep their jobs. If Aurigny as a publicly owned carrier doesn't do the population's bidding, then politicians must bear some responsibility in setting overall priorities for the airline.
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Old 24th Jul 2014, 08:19
  #150 (permalink)  
 
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Press release from the States of Alderney today:

"The Committee on 22 July met with Mark Darby, Chief Executive of Aurigny to discuss the latest plans for the Alderney routes. States Members had previously met with Messrs Drew, Cadoret and Harrisson to hear their own proposals which were discussed at some length.

A wide number of issues were discussed including the current delivery schedule for the replacement Dornier aircraft, frequency of flights and numbers of seats on both Alderney routes. Categoric assurances were given that there is no intention to terminate the Southampton-Alderney route or reduce available seats on the route. It is accepted that pricing is a concern to many people living on Alderney and those having homes here, but ultimately it was acknowledged that any significant reduction of fares will have to involve the States of Guernsey.

Neil Harvey, Chair of the Business Development and Tourism Committee said ‘We will seek a Public Service Obligation with the States of Guernsey and Aurigny to achieve this later this year as part of a package of measures to assist Alderney’s economic recovery. Aurigny has agreed to provide us with the detailed operating figures for the Alderney routes and we welcome this transparency as a contribution to this development.’

In the meantime States Members wish to express their support of Aurigny’s decision to acquire Dornier 228 aircraft to operate our routes in the expectation that these will provide a faster, more comfortable and more sustainable service to Southampton and Guernsey. Mr Harvey said ‘The contribution of the iconic Trislanders to the island and its population over many years is fully acknowledged, as is the interest and hard work of those proposing their retention. However, both States of Guernsey and Alderney as well as Aurigny agree that retention of the existing fleet is no longer sustainable and it is time to move forward as we seek to improve the island’s economy and attractiveness for inwards investment. We hope the first Dornier will be with us soon, and whilst the replacement programme will take longer than originally anticipated, we remain convinced that this is the best long term solution for the island’.

Policy and Finance Committee endorsed the unanimous decision taken in May by the States of Guernsey to facilitate acquisition of Dorniers.
"
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Old 24th Jul 2014, 08:21
  #151 (permalink)  
 
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It's not a question of being 'upset' at having plans scrutinised nor is it a question of ignoring peoples' legitimate interests/concerns about the service they receive.
I think what it is is boredom. Questions are answered but apparently that isn't good enough. After several attempts at trying to explain about capacity, I know exactly how they feel.
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Old 24th Jul 2014, 16:39
  #152 (permalink)  
 
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The letter from Mark Darby to Mike Harrisson circulated with the press release was quite a read. Amongst other gems:

We are very disappointed and somewhat alarmed that you have been seeking to ‘whip up’ hysteria in Alderney based on such a flimsy appreciation of the requirements...
  • You glibly suggest that we should also transfer air crew and ground staff to you. Having tested the idea with a number of them, your suggestion would not be welcomed
I am sure that the majority of Alderney’s residents will be reassured that Aurigny has no intention of handing over the Alderney lifeline services to you and your colleagues.
PM if you'd like it forwarded.
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Old 24th Jul 2014, 17:06
  #153 (permalink)  
 
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So the big alternative plan was for Aurigny to transfer staff to an as yet unformed airline was it? Well I admire Harrisson's cheek if not his grasp on reality.
I think if the letter is in general circulation then you should put it up here.
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Old 24th Jul 2014, 23:43
  #154 (permalink)  
 
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As requested. The following response from Mark Darby to Mike Harrisson - he agreed it should be circulated - accompanied a Press Release. Sent round by by Neil Harvey, Chairman, Business Development, Tourism and Marketing Committee.

Mr Michael Harrison
The White House
Cotil de Val
Alderney
GY9 3X

23rd July, 2014

Dear Mr Harrison,

Your letter dated 21st July, 2014

Thank you for your letter. To be frank, I’m not sure where to start with my reply as there appear to be so many gaps in the logic of your proposal or your understanding of what it takes to run an airline.

We are very disappointed and somewhat alarmed that you have been seeking to ‘whip up’ hysteria in Alderney based on such a flimsy appreciation of the requirements; stating as fact that Aurigny will be seeking to cancel the Alderney-Southampton route and raise prices (not true); and not presenting any cogent arguments as to why you and your colleagues would do a better job of running the Alderney services than Aurigny.

One of the key shareholder objectives for Aurigny, set by T&R, is to protect the lifeline routes to/from Alderney (as well as Gatwick). The reason that Aurigny is owned by the States is to ensure this through direct ownership and control. Flybe’s recent withdrawal from the Gatwick route vindicated this position. The same is true of the Alderney operation. Over the years, airlines have tried to make a go of the Alderney route (most recently ‘Rockhopper’). When they have failed, Aurigny has been there to ensure security of service.

You will need to test this with T&R, but I am certain that they will not view your proposal as offering a credible, secure service to the Alderney Community that will not run a high risk of failure. Should Aurigny dismantle its infrastructure that support its Alderney services, Alderney would be left extremely exposed. I do not believe that this would be in the best interests of the community.

Yesterday we attended the States of Alderney meeting. We left the meeting with a clear impression that they were not supportive of your proposals.

Your proposals

In brief, you and your colleagues seem to have overlooked some critical requirements and ingredients that would make your proposal credible. Having been involved in starting several airlines in my career I feel I can offer a fairly well informed perspective on this.

Firstly there is no description of any benefit that would accrue from your proposal – other than that Aurigny would have realised £4 from the sale of the aircraft. Surprisingly you also fail to mention the major benefit to Aurigny – a reduction in its losses of £900,000 p.a..
Further, there is:
  • No business plan
    • Revenue model
    • Cost model
Your financial assessment provided thus far of our “£200k p.a. profitability” suggests that you should acquaint yourselves more fully with modern airline economics before this is prepared.
  • No indication that you would be able to satisfy the CAA’s ‘financial fitness’ requirements
  • An erroneous assumption that Aurigny’s AOC could be transferred. It cannot. You would need to apply to the CAA/EASA for a new AOC, presenting a whole host of operational and financial data. You would also need to propose appropriately experienced and qualified ‘post holders’, acceptable to the CAA/EASA and demonstrate that you could establish a professional airline operation.
Other facts that you should consider:
  • We have been previously advised by Britten Norman when trying to sell the Trislanders that the maintenance programme that Aurigny operates the Trislanders under is unique to Aurigny and is not transferrable with the aircraft (the last such an enquiry yielded no response from BN). In short this means that when the aircraft leave the Aurigny operation, the aircraft would revert to B-N’s standard maintenance programme and normal structural lives would apply.
  • You glibly suggest that we should also transfer air crew and ground staff to you. Having tested the idea with a number of them, your suggestion would not be welcomed!
  • The Aurigny brand is not for sale.
I could go on. By all means approach T&R but as far as Aurigny is concerned, I am sure that the majority of Alderney’s residents will be reassured that Aurigny has no intention of handing over the Alderney lifeline services to you and your colleagues.

Yours sincerely,

Mark Darby
Chief Executive Officer

p.s. On a personal note, I have been informed that some statements were made against me personally during your meeting on the 15th of July were potentially slanderous. I will be carefully reviewing the DVD of the meeting.
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Old 25th Jul 2014, 07:49
  #155 (permalink)  
 
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Thank you for posting the letter. I think it answers all the questions that most people on Alderney would think of asking and many that they wouldn't know about, namely the various hoops that have to be jumped through to start an airline. Doubtless that will not prevent a few from continuing to talk a load of rubbish but that is their prerogative. Just as long as the majority of Alderney folk do appreciate that it is a load of rubbish and potentially very damaging to the Island. The danger is (very unlikely) that the States just say 'OK, enough, you go your own way'.
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Old 25th Jul 2014, 09:23
  #156 (permalink)  
 
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Whoaa, the letter is quite a read. Someone is seriously p***ed (quite understandably so!)
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Old 12th Jan 2015, 15:51
  #157 (permalink)  
 
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Would there be any merit to Manx2 running a IOM to Alderney route once a week? Only asking as I have some customers want to get from one to the other and the current solution is a bit patchy!
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Old 12th Jan 2015, 17:27
  #158 (permalink)  
 
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I don't know the finer points of air travel to/from Alderney; but with a population of less than 2000 & no apparent economic links between the two islands, I can't see any likelihood of an air service between the two islands.
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Old 12th Jan 2015, 21:31
  #159 (permalink)  
 
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One could of course have done it via SOU with 1 stop whilst Flybe ran an IOM service from there.
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Old 6th Feb 2015, 18:18
  #160 (permalink)  
 
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Below is Aurigny's planned timetable for 2015, with 2014 comparisons in brackets. Given big variables of late July/early August due to Alderney Week, schedules change from day-to-day so only indicated are average and maximum decreases. Back of an envelope sums suggest 1900 seat reduction on last year's schedule. Notable is the big contraction in late July services (bringing visitors in for AW) - it's possible that these services are to be added later.

June:

  • GCI-ACI
  • 4x daily Mon-Weds (down 2x)
  • 5x daily Thurs-Fri (down 1x)
  • 3x daily on Sat-Sun as of 29 March (down 1x+)
  • SOU-ACI
  • 3x daily Mon-Fri (no change)
  • 2x daily Sat (no change)
  • 3x daily Sun (no change)
July:
  • GCI-ACI
  • As above (down 2x daily Mon-Weds, 1x daily Thurs-Fri)
  • 4x daily Sat-Sun (down 1x+)
  • SOU-ACI
  • 3x daily, to 4x daily from Sat 18 Jul (as 2014 Mon-Thurs, down 2x on Fris, down avg 3x at end of month; max -5x)
August

  • GCI-ACI
  • 6x daily Mon-Thurs (down 1x)
  • 5x daily on Fri (no change/down 1x)
  • 7x daily on Sat (up 1x)
  • 6x daily on Sun (down 1x)
  • SOU-ACI
  • 4x daily Mon-Fri (down 1x)
  • 6x daily Sat-Sun (down avg 2x; max -4x)
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