Skybus welcomes first new aircraft in a decade

Skybus, the airline of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, has taken delivery of its first new aircraft in more than 10 years – marking a significant investment in the fleet and another step forward for the Group’s aviation operations.

The new aircraft, a DHC6-300 Twin Otter, arrived at Land’s End Airport yesterday following a 4,000-mile journey from the Rocky Mountains in Canada.

This addition represents the first fleet expansion for Skybus in over a decade and reflects the Group’s continued commitment to investing in all areas of its business.

Jonathan Hinkles, Managing Director of Skybus, said: “This is an important and exciting milestone for Skybus. Adding a new aircraft not only reinforces our ability to deliver reliable regional air services but also demonstrates our confidence in the long-term future of aviation within the Group – which is excellent news for the communities we serve.”

The aircraft will begin operations in November 2025 under a multi-year agreement between Skybus and Aurigny Air Services of Guernsey, in Aurigny colours, to and from the island of Alderney, serving the Guernsey and Southampton routes.

The DHC6-300 Twin Otter is a type flown for more than 30 years on the Isles of Scilly’s lifeline air links and is renowned worldwide for its reliability and versatility.

It will bring a number of technological advancements, including new Garmin 600 displays in the flightdeck, which will provide improved information and situational awareness for Skybus pilots. 

As with Skybus’s operations in Scilly, the 17-seat aircraft will also play an integral role in the delivery of air ambulance, mail, freight and pet travel services to and from Alderney.  

Skybus currently operates regular flights connecting the Isles of Scilly with Land’s End, Newquay and Exeter. This new addition not only enhances operational resilience but also demonstrates the Group’s commitment to reliable, sustainable transport links for island communities.