Alderney residents and visitors experienced travel disruption again this weekend – with the pleasant weather blamed.
The Airport’s asphalt runway was closed on Saturday (1 February) after repair work on Friday evening was affected by the ambient temperature, causing issues with the curing concrete.
Although airport officials had hoped for a Saturday morning reopening, the decision was made to keep it closed for the rest of the day after inspections and consultations with stakeholders.
The airport’s grass runway remained open for private aircraft throughout the closure but no commercial flights could land or take off.
Normal operations resumed on Sunday, with Guernsey Ports apologising for any disruption, but organisations and individuals had already shared their experiences – including Guernsey States Member, Deputy Mark Helyar.
Alderney States Member Alex Snowdon said this latest short term runway closure was “extremely concerning” and he wants more details about the scheduled maintenance work to be published in advance in future.
“The issue with the runway is becoming extremely concerning for the Alderney community,” he said.
“It is hard to plan events and for the community to live everyday life, whether medical appointments required in Guernsey or family and friends visiting with the uncertainty around planes running or further runway closures, this impacts our reputation due to travel issues. This also impacts our hospitality sector massively with tourists simply finding it too difficult for an Alderney holiday.
“I sincerely hope we move forward quickly with spades in the ground to get the Alderney runway project delivered and give confidence back to the community and businesses. This is vital Bailiwick infrastructure which must not be allowed to crumble away, impacting the economy, residents of Alderney and the relationships within the Bailiwick being in fiscal union with the States of Guernsey.
“It would be helpful to understand the full maintenance program from STSB over Alderney runway so any last-minute closures can be avoided if possible.”
The closure meant the Alderney Nomads football team had to cancel a game against Vale Rec Reserves in Guernsey on Saturday.
Mr Snowdon said this is one of the disappointing side effects of runway closures.
“The islands coming together with Guernsey and Alderney football players playing matches is great for those taking part and supporting their clubs, therefore, it is disappointing the football match between Alderney and Guernsey this weekend had to be cancelled due to Alderney runway being closed all day.
“Sporting events bring our islands closer together helping to build friendships and teamsmanship across the islands.”