Direct flights to Belgium offered in December

The airline has been under scrutiny in recent months due to it cutting 28 of its flights for summer

A local airline has launched direct flights from Jersey and Guernsey to Bruges in Belgium.

Blue Islands said people could enjoy a "magical escape" in December - flying to Ostend Airport with day return, two and three-night stay options.

The airline has been under scrutiny in recent months due to cutting 28 of its flights for summer and for delayed and cancelled services.

In May, the Jersey government said it could take action against it if its services did not improve.

Blue Islands CEO Rob Veron said the airline was pleased to be offering a new destination for Christmas markets in Europe.

He said: "Bruges is a magical destination at Christmas and our direct flights with included transfers make it easy for islanders to experience the joy of a European Christmas market break that's just a short flight away.

"This year we've added more flexibility so islanders can create a trip to suit them, with a day return option complemented by two and three-night stays."