10% drop in inter-island air passengers

Friday 06 January 2017

Four in 10 seats on inter-island flights were left empty last year – the product of a 10% drop in passenger numbers on the route.

Figures released by Guernsey Airport showed that passengers on flights between Jersey and Guernsey fell to around 113,776 in 2016, down from 127,148 the previous year.

The falling numbers are part of a steeper downward trend, with passengers jetting between the two islands declining almost 30% from 160,000 in 2008.

Rob Veron, Blue Islands CEO, commented that a number of factors had contributed to the decline, including, “…unprecedented disruption due to weather,” rising operations and ground handling fees, as well as changes in corporate travel policy.

“The wider economic environment affects demand, for example business travel policies are becoming increasingly robust, we are aware of corporates that are explicitly embargoing business travel. There is also the continual advancement and accessibility of reliable video conferencing – which allows more employees to be present at meetings – resulting in a reduced requirement for business travel, especially inter-island,” he said.

Pictured: Blue Islands CEO, Rob Veron.

The news comes following an investigation into whether Flybe’s franchise partnership with Blue Islands breaches competition law.

Under the franchise, flights are booked on Flybe’s system, but flown by Blue Islands crew in Flybe uniforms, and in Blue Islands aircrafts branded as Flybe.

The airlines argue that the franchise agreement is the most efficient way of operating the route, as it is an expensive one for them to fly, and they already provide more seats than there is demand. 

Mr Veron added: “Pre and post-franchise, both airlines remain fully motivated to maximise sales on their own operated services to meet budget aspirations and compete for market share… We are working hard to ensure services remain sustainable for long-term viability.”