After $9-million In Servicing, Ferry Requires Further Repairs

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It is unclear as to whether passengers aboard the Aurora were under any danger due to the defective fabrications of the ship's engines. Photo courtesy the AP.

Jamey Kirk

Story Created: Jun 6, 2008 at 11:41 AM AKDT

Story Updated: Jun 6, 2008 at 11:41 AM AKDT

The state ferry, Aurora, will be out of service until next week, said state officials. At a cost of about $9-million, the Aurora was recently overhauled in Bellingham, Washington.

Following the overhaul process fabrication defects were found in the ship's engines during the ship's return to Alaska. Electro-Motive Diesels, the engine's manufacturer, has accepted responsibility and will pay for all the costs to repair the engines.

Officials have suggested that the Aurora, which can transport 300 passengers and 34 vehicles, will be back in service by June 12th. Chenga, a fast ferry, is operating in Prince William Sound.