Aurigny has been granted the first licence to fly between Jersey and Guernsey after Blue Islands’ collapse – but applications from two other challengers for the “essential” route remain under consideration.

Guernsey’s Transport Licensing Authority (TLA) today confirmed that the States of Guernsey-owned airline’s request had been granted subject to conditions following a successful application submitted on 17 November 2025, three days after Blue Islands’ flights were suspended.

Loganair was next to publicly declare an interest in the route.

In a statement confirming Aurigny’s success, the TLA revealed that three applications had been received to date. The TLA has not yet confirmed the identity of the third applicant.

The TLA said Aurigny’s request was dealt with first because applications are being considered in date order. The remaining two applications will be assessed “as soon as possible”, in line with the process set out in law, the Authority said.

At the moment, Loganair has special dispensation to fly between Guernsey and Jersey, and Aurigny is also flying between the islands – but licences are required from 15 January because the route has been designated “essential” by the States of Guernsey.

From that date, licences will also be required to operate Southampton–Guernsey, Alderney–Guernsey and Gatwick–Guernsey.

Deputy John Gollop, President of the Transport Licensing Authority, said the decision on Aurigny’s application followed a formal statutory process.

“The TLA followed a rigorous process set out in the law, which included consideration of representations received from the public, other interested parties and the applicant, as part of the application consultation process,” he said.

“Members of the TLA are grateful for the engagement it received from members of the public and interested parties.”

Philip Saunders, Chief Commercial Officer at Aurigny, said the airline was “delighted” about the decision.

“It’s fantastic to have the opportunity to develop our service on this ‘lifeline’ route connecting the two largest Channel Islands,” he continued.

“This comes at the same time we have announced our Alderney schedule for Summer 2026 and underlines our unique position as the carrier that truly connects the communities across the islands and on to the UK, the European mainland and beyond.

“As has been reflected in passenger numbers, we have already established an extremely popular service in record time, claiming the clear position as the natural first choice for Channel Islanders on this vital route. As mandated by our licence, we look forward to providing double daily services, delivering choice and enabling convenient and productive day trips.”

Aurigny previously ran a regular Guernsey–Jersey service for many years, with Flybe and later Blue Islands operating less frequent services, including as part of triangular routes to and from the UK.

Aurigny and Blue Islands also shared the route through a code-share arrangement until Aurigny withdrew in 2016.