For those with business interests outside of Guernsey, as well as those looking for some summer sunshine without the hassle of going via the UK, islanders have never been in a better position.
Guernsey has become more connected by air than ever before, thanks to the proliferation of direct flights to various European destinations. This increased connectivity has brought about several significant advantages for the island.
Travellers from across Europe can now easily access the island, while enhanced air connectivity benefits islanders by providing convenient travel options for business and leisure. Direct access to European cities saves time and reduces the hassle of connecting flights, making it more attractive for both current residents and potential newcomers.
In addition to economic and lifestyle benefits, improved air connectivity strengthens Guernsey’s position in the global market. It encourages foreign investment and fosters business relationships with European partners.
With both Aurigny and Jersey-based private travel company Fly Direct operating direct flights from Guernsey to more than a dozen European hubs, the opportunities for business and leisure travellers are now numerous.
Aurigny is now operating regular flights between Guernsey and a number of UK cities, as well as seasonal flights to Edinburgh, Liverpool, Newquay, Dublin, Leeds Bradford, Grenoble, Malaga and Ibiza.
In autumn, the airline also operated a series of flights to Madrid, Porto, Barcelona, Bilbao, Valencia and Prague. The airline recently announced that these would be repeated in 2024, with the addition of Mallorca, Alicante, Menorca, Biarritz and La Coruna. They have also brought back the London City and London Stansted routes from the end of March 2024, and are launching a brand new twice-weekly service to Paris.
Nico Bezuidenhout, Chief Executive Officer, Aurigny, said: ‘Introducing a regular Paris service complements Aurigny’s existing seasonal offerings between Guernsey and Europe. Providing a regular and direct link to a European hub airport benefits business and leisure travellers alike and enhances the air connectivity of the island.’
Reaching such places has always involved an extra flight to the mainland and often an overnight stay in a hotel for islanders.
‘Since the launch of our European flights in early August, we’ve witnessed an overwhelmingly positive response. Our direct flights have proven to be a game changer for islanders, optimising their valuable time by providing a seamless door to door journey to Europe within just a few hours,’ added Mr Bezuidenhout.
Fly Direct, a private travel company based in Jersey, is also now offering flights from Guernsey to Palma, Majorca and Faro, Portugal.
So whether it’s for a much-wanted family holiday, or a business trip where time is of the essence, Guernsey’s increased air connectivity to European destinations is a boon for the island. It drives economic growth, enhances residents’ quality of life, and solidifies its global presence. As a result, Guernsey continues to thrive as a sought-after destination and an attractive place to live and do business.
