Guernsey Aviation Group criticises Aurigny plans

Guernsey Aviation Group said the unreliability of Aurigny services has led a number of businesses to leave the island

Guernsey Aviation Group (GAAG) has criticised plans for an independent review into the states-backed airline Aurigny.

The group said the airline could not provide "very basic services the island needs" following a series of delays and cancellations this year.

It said the impact of unreliable services had already led to businesses leaving the island, adding Policy and Resources should intervene.

A spokesperson for Aurigny said it was working its shareholder on an upcoming review of the service.

Reliability 'highest priority'

The spokesperson said they were "confident" its strategy of standardised fleet and destinations such as London City and Paris, aimed at supporting both the local finance sector and the visitor economy, was the "right one".

"We understand the importance of providing islanders, visitors, and businesses with reliable and resilient air links – these air links have helped Guernsey’s post-pandemic air travel volumes to recover at a rate on par or ahead of other Crown Dependencies," the spokesperson said.

"Aurigny has historically, and until January this year, maintained punctuality rates above the average of carriers operating to/from/within the UK, and the protection and reliability of Guernsey’s lifeline routes is our single highest priority."

'Reputational damage'

GAAG said there has been "too many excuses" from the airline's management.

It had urged the States policy and resources to consider invoking emergency powers and speaking to British Airways (BA) to formulate a plan to provide a service between Guernsey to London.

GAAG said: "It is evident Aurigny cannot provide the very basic services the island needs to maintain our present position much less provide growth.

"The reputational damage is immediate but restoring confidence will take years, and at considerable cost."