Aurigny review: Transport 'biggest issue' for Guernsey States

The airline currently operates four different aircraft and its routes include Gatwick, Southampton, Manchester, Dinard and Barcelona

The future role of Guernsey States-owned airline Aurigny will form part of a review into its services.

The length of the airport runways in Guernsey and Alderney, the airline's role in economics and the needs of the community will also be included.

The loss-making airline no longer runs a Guernsey-Jersey service and concerns have grown about flights to Alderney.

Deputy Lyndon Trott, leading the review, said transport was the biggest policy issue facing the States.

Mr Trott said: "The many issues surrounding our air and sea connectivity currently present the Bailiwick with its number one strategic policy challenge."

He described the review as "a genuine opportunity" to set long-term plans for the future of the States-owned airline.

The island's government bought the airline in 2003 in a bid to safeguard slots at London Gatwick.

The public has been asked to contribute to the review and the report including recommendations is due to go before the States in early 2017.

Included in the Terms of Reference

• What kind of service do we want from Aurigny in three, five and 10 years' time, and how do these needs differ in Guernsey and Alderney?

• How should economic enablement and providing a public service be balanced?

• To what extent, if any, do the length of the airport runways impact on the airline's ability to deliver this service?

• How can the needs of the communities be best met to support economic development, health and sports links?

• What can Aurigny learn from other small airlines with regard innovative customer care?

• How can the airline help drive visitor number growth and improve the competitiveness of fares?

Source: Strategic Review of Aurigny