Direct flights between Jersey, Brest, and Alderney are set to continue into first two weekends of September amid “strong demand”.

Breton airline Finistair, which has been been operating the flights since the end of June, today announced it will be extending the service in partnership with the Government of Jersey, the States of Alderney, and Ports of Jersey.

Up to £40,000 was “made available” by the Government of Jersey to support the airline in trialling the new route. Express has asked the Government to confirm if any more funding has been allocated for this service extension.

The service was initially scheduled to end on 31 August, but Finistair announced that the “success” of the route had led to its continuation into the first two weekends of September.

The flights are operated aboard a Cessna Grand Caravan, which has the capacity to carry nine people, and had an average load factor of over 80% throughout the trial, according to Finistair.

The strong demand and positive feedback from passengers highlight the value of this regional connection

Matt Thomas, ceo of ports of jersey

Jersey’s Economic Development Minister Kristen Morel said: “This summer’s success has shown that there is demand among Jersey residents to visit Alderney and Brest, as well as visitors from both destinations to come to Jersey.

“I hope that islanders will take advantage of this opportunity to enjoy a weekend of September sun in two wonderful locations – I’m confident that Jersey will have visitors doing the same thing.”

Ports of Jersey CEO Matt Thomas added: “It’s encouraging to see the Brest–Jersey–Alderney route extended into September.

“The strong demand and positive feedback from passengers highlight the value of this regional connection, and we’re confident the additional flights will be well received by both visitors and residents alike.”

Finistair CEO Loïc Andro said: “We are delighted to have successfully completed this trial and to extend the service to Jersey and Alderney.

“Passengers have shown real enthusiasm for these routes. It will be a pleasure to welcome them again on board.”