Alderney to look into running its own airline

Citywing Aviation Services was asked by a States member to submit plans detailing the costs and operation of an airline managed at arm's length by the States.

The Isle of Man-based company supplied a Let 410 and crew to Aurigny last autumn for a period when the Trislanders were experiencing technical difficulties.

The proposals, which come after regular criticism was levelled at Aurigny by the States of Alderney over the reliability and ticket prices of the current service, outline a five-year service level agreement between the States and Citywing, which would cost the public purse around £600,000 a year.

The 38-page document sets out plans for six flights to Guernsey on each weekday, three flights to Southampton and direct flights once a week to and from Jersey and Cherbourg.

Neil Harvey, chairman of Alderney's Policy and Finance Committee, said the proposals were still to be formally discussed.