The first flights between Guernsey and Heathrow in more than six years are due to take place today, as British Airways officially launches its year-round, once-a-day lunchtime rotation.
The first arrival is scheduled at 12:55 today, with the returning departure leaving Guernsey at 13:45.
To mark its first flights in and out of the island since 1980, BA had plans to make today’s services special.
The airline said the flights will be operated by crew with personal connections to the island.
That includes the flight’s Captain and four members of the cabin crew team, who all come from Guernsey or have close family ties with the Bailiwick.
British Airways Captain Stef Loveridge is due to fly the inaugural flight.
He said it’s going to be a”really special moment” and “a real honour”, that he’s “proud to play a part in”.
British Airways also said that customers travelling on today’s services will be treated to a traditional Gâche Mèlèe on board.
The new Heathrow service was announced in November last year, however experienced heads voiced concerns over the cost of the slot, and the States subsidy that was arranged to help confirm the service.
The last time Guernsey had a Heathrow link was in 2019 when £850,000 was given to Flybe to operate the route, before the airline went bust during the covid pandemic early in 2020.
This latest attempt has received the blessing of Guernsey’s business community, with Jo Peacegood, Chair of GIBA previously stating that its implementation “is central to Guernsey’s economic ambitions”.
Neil Chernoff, Chief Planning and Strategy Officer at British Airways, said it’s good news as far as he is concerned.
“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. ”
Ross Coppolo, Managing Director of Guernsey Ports, said it is good news for the island and its connectivity.
“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.
“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.”