If you’ve ever flown to Isles of Scilly….
Then you will have used one of their Twin Otters although Skybus started in 1984 with just one Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander. In the beginning, they were freight and charter flights from LEQ. Scheduled operations to PLY began in 1987, followed by LEQ-ISC (St Marys) later that year. Further flights were added to EXT and NQY. Historically, air services have operated since 1937. Skybus now provides a vital lifeline for 2000 Isles of Scilly residents. The islands just 28 miles from mainland Britain.
The first Twin Otter joined the fleet in 1994 as the airline started to introduce services to other destinations. Sadly these were withdrawn, when in 2012, the company decided to concentrate on LEQ, NQY and EXT. Today, it remains the longest serving airline at Cornwall’s airport.
The dilemma for Skybus remained the wish to expand services to BRS and SOU. These were ruled out as impractical, as in the time taken to operate, the Twin Otter could complete, for example, up to 6 shorter rotations LEQ-ISC.
The new terminal at LEQ opened in 2013 and boasts such features as a log burner and comfortable seating, it’s more like a home lounge than functional environment. The floor to ceiling windows offering panoramic views. For such a small aircraft, the baggage allowance is a generous 15kg per passenger. There are no departure gates, instead a pre-flight briefing is conducted in the terminal itself.
Skybus flights can be described as quirky, with good reason. With the 1-2 configuration, seats are labelled C, B, A. Boarding conducted via the rear door, Row 1 first. Dogs are also given priority, with their own box on Row 4! Their human companions then have Row 5. Cabin crew duties conducted by either Captain or First Officer, depending on who is Pilot Flying.
The 9 Twin Otters and Islanders are maintained by the airline’s own team, including the major checks. Assistance is provided by Rocky Mountain Aircraft in Calgary, who send over staff for 3 weeks. The Islanders are now only used for freight services.
So, what does Skybus offer the aviation enthusiast? The ability to fly with staff that are willing to go the extra mile to ensure great customer service. Many are long time employees who believe they are part of a small, close-knit family. Of course, the propeller experience is always on the enthusiast’s agenda.
More news…
Condor – the A321neo has made its debut in the now familiar livery. The distinct paintwork is known as “Ringelsocke” by German enthusiasts!
IPS – the “will they, won’t they” saga continues although the latest news could signal the end. Despite announcing they would commence services to MAN from ISL in August, the website no longer functions and reservations information withdrawn. This outcome unsurprising when Pakistan Aviation Authority stated they had no licence application for the airline and none had been granted…
Airliners Live – this MAN based YouTube streaming site recently shared the Jet2 757 love by describing the aircraft as having “spangly dangly legs”. Nothing further to add here!
And finally…
TPSC – as you are probably aware, our website is currently undergoing maintenance and upgrading. One thing being considered is having a Comments space for the blogs, rather than using the Discussions board. Please let us know what you think and don’t be shy in discussing your aviation interests. We’d love to hear from you!
Information courtesy of Airliner World (August 2024), Aviation Source
Images courtesy of Visit Isles of Scilly, Condor Newsroom
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