Aurigny and Blue Islands plan to join forces on the Guernsey-Jersey inter island route

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Two local airlines Aurigny and Blue Islands have proposed joining forces to provide a robust and sustainable inter island service on the Guernsey – Jersey route. The proposal has been reviewed by CICRA, the Channel Islands Competition and Regulatory Authority who have commenced the required public consultation process.

With Aurigny entering into a code share co-operation with Blue Islands, both of the locally-owned airlines will be able to pool resources and share costs whilst providing a shared seat capacity on the route. The objective of this agreement is to generate greater efficiencies and sustain the economic viability of all the routes served by both airlines.

Blue Islands will operate their ATR-42 on the route on behalf of both airlines. Passengers may book travel through either company. It is proposed that Aurigny will be increasing its ground handling operation in Jersey and Guernsey to take on all of Blue Island’s needs.

Rob Veron Blue Island’s managing director says:

“The ATR42 aircraft is perfectly sized to supply an optimum mix of frequency and capacity for a sustainable long-term service. The inter island route is unique due to the very constant number of passengers requiring travel between the islands, limited by our respective populations. This proposed, sustainable solution therefore acknowledges that this is a finite market.

‘This collaboration will enhance the service to our customers. It is well known that Aurigny provide excellent ground handling and customer service for their passengers and we look forward to introducing their team to our own customers. We in turn will provide our dedicated 46 seat ATR aircraft on the inter island route, with the reassurance of a spare back-up ATR aircraft for times of inevitable technical and servicing requirements. Our collective approach will result in the very best experience for all inter island passengers.’

Mark Darby, CEO of Aurigny says,

‘Using their ATR fleet, Blue Islands have developed sufficient capacity to serve the whole inter island market. Working together will provide cost savings as well as securing an excellent mix of frequency and seat availability to serve this vital route to the benefit of both islands. This also alleviates the requirement by Aurigny to obtain further significant financial support from the States of Guernsey to invest heavily in new aircraft to service this route as our Trislanders reach the end of their economic life cycle.’

With a market size of 140,000, the inter island route is a vital lifeline connection for both Guernsey and Jersey.