An aviation action group has welcomed the launch of the new British Airways service between Guernsey and London Heathrow. 

The first of the year-round, once-a-day flights was welcomed into the island on Sunday, with a focus on Guernsey. 

The flight was crewed by staff with a connection to the Bailiwick, and Gâche Mèlèe was offered to those using the inaugural service.

It was welcomed in by a local delegation, including the President of Economic Development, Deputy Sasha Kazantseva-Miller who described it as a “significant step in the right direction”. 

  • Pictured: The crew was met by a Guernsey Delegation, welcoming the first flight on the new Heathrow route. (Image by Chris George).
  • Pictured: The return of the Heathrow Link. (Image by Chris George).

Now even more praise has been heaped on the Heathrow connection, with Barry Cash emphasising its importance, in an open letter, which you can read in full HERE. 

​He said the Guernsey Aviation Action Group views this link as a strategic necessity rather than a luxury, arguing that it connects the island to a global hub. 

“The return of the Guernsey – Heathrow service with main line British Airways using Airbus A319/A320 aircraft is, in our view, a critically essential development for the island and is most welcome,” said the GAAG Chairman.

“Guernsey stands at a critical juncture in securing its economic future. Restoring and strengthening our direct air link with London Heathrow, operated by British Airways, would not just connect us to one airport — it would connect us to the world.”

Pictured: BA Captain Stef Loveridge flies the Guernsey Flag from British Airways flight BA1344, (Image by Chris George).

GAAG cites forecasts from independent analysts suggesting the service could generate between £20 million and £40 million in annual economic activity through trade, tourism, and tax receipts. 

It also references an Oxford Economics estimate regarding the service’s contribution to Jersey’s economy as a benchmark, but the Chairman says the benefits aren’t just found in budgets. 

“The benefits go beyond balance sheets,” wrote Mr Cash in his open letter. “Better connectivity strengthens our global standing, encourages investment, and helps reverse post-pandemic declines in passenger volumes. It keeps Guernsey visible on the world stage — as a financial centre, as a visitor destination, and as a place to live and work.”

He added that a direct Heathrow link is “not a luxury” and instead argues that it’s a “strategic necessity.”

Pictured: You can read Barry Cash’s full letter HERE.

“The value it brings — economic, reputational, and practical — would be felt across every sector of our community.

“Congratulations to everyone who helped achieve this vital link particularly to all the Civil Servants whose diligent commitment made this possible.”