Guernsey-based airline Aurigny has marked a significant milestone in its objective to improve accessibility for more of its travellers with the delivery of new fully electric Aviramps for Southampton and London Gatwick airports.
The new units are in addition to those that are currently available at Guernsey Airport, thanks to partnership working earlier in the year with Guernsey Ports to improve the customer experience.
The specialised ramps provide step-free access to aircraft, making boarding and disembarking easier, safer and dignified for all travellers, including the 6,000 customers who have requested additional assistance over the last 12 months, and families with small children.
Aurigny has been assessing the impact of Aviramp use on its on-time-performance – and, on average, a four-minute time saving per rotation is being achieved – thus it’s also an investment that is proving to benefit everyone flying with Aurigny.
The airline is now working closely with its partners to train ground teams and complete the necessary procedural implementation to bring the technology into use at Gatwick and Southampton in the very near future.
Upon completion, all Aurigny’s lifeline routes between Guernsey and the UK, which have the highest proportion of patient travel, will benefit from Aviramp access.
Dave Cox, deputy chief operations officer, said: “By working with Aviramp and Guernsey Ports, we’ve enabled travellers in Guernsey to benefit from smoother, faster, and more dignified boarding experiences.
“I’m pleased to confirm a lot more will benefit from the technology very soon.
“As an industry, we still have more to do to make air travel more accessible, but it’s good to be able to reflect on the progress being made today, on National Accessibility in Aviation Day.”
Graham Corfield, Aviramp’s CEO, added: “We’ve always believed that good accessibility solutions benefit everyone, not just disabled passengers.
“Our ramps improve safety for all while helping airports operate more efficiently.
“It was fantastic to be able to visit beautiful Guernsey and meet with Aurigny, who share our vision for a world where aviation is accessible for all.”
Aurigny is also evaluating the Aviramp Light solution for potential use with the Twin Otters that will soon be deployed in Alderney.
The airline remains dedicated to improving accessibility and efficiency across its network, ensuring that every traveller can move through its services with ease and confidence.
