Aurigny defends comparatively high prices

A report found certain Aurigny routes cost up to 30% more than other operators

Guernsey's airline, Aurigny, has defended its pricing after a report found certain routes were up to 30% more expensive compared to operators in Jersey and the Isle of Man.

The independent review was published on Friday and found Aurigny's prices were comparatively higher on "high demand UK routes".

Aurigny said the report did not factor in subsidies paid to other operators when it calculated costs on the routes, which allowed them to offer "lower airfares".

A spokesperson for Aurigny said: "The report does find that fares offered by Aurigny are lower on more comparable regional routes, such as Exeter, where such subsidies do not play a central role."

'Focused on improving'

The review focused on connectivity, reliability and affordability for air services to Guernsey.

"The summary report indicates that Guernsey performs comparably to, or better than, Jersey and the Isle of Man regarding connectivity, something Aurigny is pleased to have played its part in achieving," Aurigny said.

It added: "As a smaller market, with a greater propensity to travel, Guernsey also has differing scalability opportunities and schedule requirements compared to other Crown Dependencies."

Aurigny said its post-flight surveys indicated punctuality, reliability, and quality of service were the key areas passengers wanted the airline to focus on.

"Areas we are firmly focused on improving in the year ahead," it said.

Aurigny added: "Everyone at Aurigny remains committed to serving the needs of Guernsey's community, contributing to the island's economic and social wellbeing, and delivering the best possible value for money."

Flight operator Blue Islands which runs in partnership with Aurigny, declined to comment on the report.