The real-life cost of unreliable flights between Alderney, Jersey and beyond is to be put under the microscope following recent disruption to the smaller island’s air services.

A new Air Connectivity Oversight Working Group has been established and will carry out a review looking at connections between Alderney, Jersey, Guernsey and the UK, with its first phase gathering evidence on the impact of air travel on healthcare, education, employment, tourism, business and everyday life.

It follows a proposal from Alderney States Member Steve Roberts, who has now been appointed chair of the new working group alongside fellow politicians Veronica Taylor and Kevin Gentle.

Building a picture of disruption

The group will consider operational statistics gathered by local pilots as well as passenger survey data collected by the Alderney Chamber of Commerce.

How do you even get to Alderney?

Last year, Brittany-based regional airline Finistair started offering direct 15-minute flights between Jersey and Alderney twice a week, on Fridays and Sundays, over the summer months (June, July, August and September).

Otherwise, Islanders will have to opt for sea travel via charter service Water Taxi CI or Islands Unlimited.

Both datasets cover the period since February this year.

Mr Roberts said: “This review seeks to build a detailed evidence base to better understand the challenges facing Alderney’s air connectivity and the impact these have on our community and economy.”

“I believe an independent review is the best way to establish a clear, evidence-based understanding of the issues and to identify what improvements may be needed to ensure Alderney’s air services meet the needs of the island,” he continued.

“I would encourage businesses, organisations and members of the community to share their experiences and contribute to this important piece of work.

“Recent disruption has reinforced the importance of understanding the challenges facing Alderney’s air connectivity. Gathering evidence from those affected will help ensure the review is informed by the experiences of the community.”