A recent report reveals that flying to and from Guernsey on high-demand UK routes costs passengers up to 30% more than similar journeys involving Jersey or the Isle of Man. This disparity has reignited debates about the affordability of air travel to the island, a critical factor for residents, businesses, and tourists alike.
The independent review, commissioned by Guernsey’s Committee for Economic Development (CED) in August, sought to examine the island’s air connectivity, reliability, and affordability. While it found that Guernsey offers a similar number of routes and flights as its island peers, and even outperforms in terms of fewer delays and cancellations between 2010 and 2023, the cost of air travel remains a sticking point.
CED President Deputy Neil Inder highlighted the duality of the findings:
- Connectivity Strengths: Guernsey’s air services provide reasonable access to UK destinations, bolstered by positive market confidence.
- Affordability Challenges: Despite progress in connectivity, airfares remain a barrier, especially as passenger numbers are still recovering to pre-pandemic levels.
Inder emphasized the need to address affordability, stating, “Price and affordability are a factor in businesses making decisions in using the island as a base.” This underscores the broader economic implications of high airfares, which could deter investment and tourism.
Aurigny and Guernsey Airport Under Scrutiny
Aurigny, Guernsey’s States-owned airline, has faced significant challenges, including pilot retention and financial pressures. The States Trading Supervisory Board initiated a review of the airline’s fleet in August after a tumultuous six months. Meanwhile, Guernsey Airport, another States-owned asset, has been identified as a potential “economic enabler.”
These entities hold the potential to drive economic growth, but their roles must be balanced against the need for financial sustainability. For example, in November, the States announced a rise in airfares to and from Alderney to reduce taxpayer subsidies.
Implications for Businesses and Residents
High airfares impact more than just individual travelers; they influence business decisions and the broader economy. Companies considering Guernsey as a base must weigh the cost of connectivity against its benefits. For local businesses, higher travel costs could hinder growth opportunities by limiting access to UK markets and partnerships.
Residents, too, feel the pinch, as expensive airfares restrict travel options for work, education, or leisure. Combined with the lingering effects of the pandemic on passenger numbers, affordability issues could stifle recovery in the tourism sector, a vital component of Guernsey’s economy.
The CED intends to use the findings from this report to inform a broader review of the island’s Air Transport Licensing Policy Statement. A briefing for States members and businesses is planned for February, signaling a commitment to addressing these challenges.
Addressing affordability will require collaborative efforts between the government, Aurigny, Guernsey Airport, and other stakeholders. As Inder aptly put it, improving air connectivity is not just about adding routes or increasing frequency it’s about ensuring the island remains accessible and competitive in a globalized economy.
With the right strategies in place, Guernsey could strike a balance between economic growth and affordable, reliable air travel, benefiting residents, businesses, and tourists alike.
