Flights between Guernsey and Heathrow have resumed for the first time in more than six years, with a local man piloting the plane.
British Airways launched its new service yesterday with the first flight arriving five minutes earlier, but the departure leaving 24 minutes late.
Both flights had a Guernsey-theme with Gâche Mèlèe served for passengers while the crew had ties to the island, including notably Captain Stef Loveridge.
“As someone who was born in Guernsey, today’s flight was a really special moment,” he said.
“Bringing a British Airways aircraft in to land on the island was a real honour, and I’m proud to play a part in the launch of this new route and improved links between my home island and the UK.”
The flight was well received on the ground, with the Managing Director of Guernsey Ports noting that it aligned with an airport milestone.
“Guernsey Ports is delighted to welcome British Airways back to Guernsey on its inaugural daily London Heathrow service which coincides with the 22nd anniversary of the opening of our passenger terminal building,” said Ross Coppolo.
“The introduction of a new daily London Heathrow service is an exciting moment for our island’s connectivity which will provide greater choice and access to British Airways’ worldwide route network.”
Politically, the new route is one that the President of Economic Development has claimed is a move in the right direction, and one that improves the island’s airlinks.
“British Airways’ inaugural flight into Guernsey on this new Heathrow route is another significant step in the right direction when it comes to improving Guernsey’s transport links,” said Deputy Sasha Kazantseva-Miller.
“I am confident this route will open up new opportunities for business and leisure travel, particularly through the worldwide connections British Airways offer, and it will bring more options and choice for travellers.
“We look forward to working closely with the teams at British Airways to make it a success, together with continuing to enhance our overall connectivity through the work on an updated Air Policy Framework.”
The route has also been touted as an important piece of a wider puzzle for British Airways themselves.
Neil Chernoff, the Chief Planning and Strategy Officer at the airline said: “We are delighted to celebrate the launch of British Airways’ new Guernsey service today.
“This route is an important addition to our network, strengthening connectivity between the Channel Islands and London, and opening access to further destinations across Europe, North America and beyond.
“For our customers travelling from the UK to Guernsey to discover this remarkable island, this new route gives them even greater choice and convenience when travelling.”
