Increase in air passenger numbers in January

There were increases in passengers on flights to Gatwick, Southampton, Manchester and Liverpool

Over 5,000 more people travelled through Jersey Airport last month, compared to January last year.

There were increases on services to Gatwick, Southampton, Manchester and Liverpool.

Jersey Airport said the increase of 7.4% had given rise to a mood of cautious optimism that passenger figures would continue to improve.

Last year passenger numbers were down by 2.25% but much of this was attributed to the volcanic ash.

But small signs of recovery started last summer when travel increased on 2009.

Senator Paul Routier, assistant minister for economic development, who has political responsibility for the airport, said, "Between May and September 2010, Jersey was served by more than 48 destinations, which was significantly up on the previous year.

"Taking into consideration the size of the island, this is a tremendous amount of destinations and demonstrates that if direct air links are available both residents and visitors will take advantage of them."

The majority of 2011 summer services to and from Jersey are now on sale, although the final schedule is still being finalised.