The new Heathrow link is aimed at both leisure and business travel – says both the politician who signed the contract and British Airways which will operate it.
The Committee for Economic Development has agreed a once daily lunchtime rotation between the London hub and Guernsey starting next April.
ED says it’s aimed at strengthening “both business and tourist travel for the island”.
ED President, Deputy Sasha Kazantseva-Miller said they pursued the partnership with BA after being convinced of the “demonstrable demand for the service” from bodies including the Guernsey International Business Association, the Guernsey Hospitality Association, and other members of the G8 which each highlighted the potential benefits for both business and tourism.
“Connectivity is one of the most important economic development levers and a key priority for the Committee this political term,” she said. “We have already seen excellent improvements in our sea connectivity this year and are taking a proactive approach in developing air travel. I am very pleased to confirm that our partnership with British Airways, an international airline with an extensive network, can help us drive passenger numbers and meet the demands of our community, business and tourism sectors.
“In a week that has seen significant upheaval and disruption to air connectivity in the Channel Islands, I hope that this agreement with help shape a new era for air connectivity. British Airways’ route is intended to enhance the island’s connectivity alongside other operators. The Committee will be working very closely together with all the different stakeholders to ensure the best outcomes for the Bailiwick of Guernsey.”
Neil Chernoff, British Airways’ Chief Planning and Strategy Officer, also said the route will benefit business and leisure travellers.
“We’re pleased to be expanding our route map with the addition of Guernsey, bringing the total number of our Heathrow short-haul network to nearly 100 destinations,” he said.
“The addition of Guernsey is something we know our customers have been eagerly awaiting. As the only direct service between Heathrow and Guernsey, the route will offer conveniently timed connections to more than 20 European destinations, providing greater choice and flexibility for both leisure and business travellers alike.”
The flights – starting on 19 April and on sale now – will be operated using a combination of Airbus A319 and Airbus A320neo aircraft said BA.
The lunchtime flights “offer convenient onward connections to over 20 European destinations, including Rome, Madrid, and Geneva, as well as transatlantic destinations in North America, including New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto” said BA.
Deputy Lee Van Katwyk, Committee for Economic Development Lead for Tourism, said he’s hopeful that the new Heathrow link will follow the success of working with Brittany Ferries.
“I am very appreciative of the immense work that has gone into the development of this partnership with British Airways, our officers from the Committee for Economic Development have worked closely with Guernsey Ports. By bringing a new operator into the island, we aim to stimulate the air travel market for the benefit of all islanders.
“This year has demonstrated that, when we invest in laying strong foundations with new partners from well-established brands, this can present us with opportunity to introduce the Bailiwick to new, untapped and sizeable audiences.”