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The CGI says it will make international connections more convenient for some travellers, and that it applauds the Economic Development Minister’s efforts in making the Heathrow service a reality, but it says the test will be the long term sustainability of the service, ongoing requirements for subsidies and the impact on Aurigny given the inevitable loss of some passengers from the Gatwick route.

The CGi says that its main concern is that without real growth in passenger numbers the net result may be a considerable increase in the public subsidy paid out to support Flybe on the new Guernsey to Heathrow service and an increase in the funding provided to Aurigny as well. 

Clive McMinn CGI

Pictured: Clive McMinn. 

Clive McMinn, CGi Chairman, said; “This is not a perfect solution for improving international connectivity; it has a number of risks associated with it but at least there is the will to take a risk and try something.

“With current uncertainty over FlyBe’s future, the CGI hopes that the States has negotiated an option on the slot to continue to operate the route should FlyBe choose not to be unable fulfil the service beyond this summer. The future sustainability of the services could be assured if thebenefits can be supported by evidence that the trial period will generate.”