Blue Islands to put case for Bristol route

The airline applied in March for a licence for a service to compete with Aurigny.

It wants to fly twice a day to the south-western city and will have the opportunity to put its case at a public Commerce and Employment air transport licence hearing next week.

Aurigny currently operates a single daily service to Bristol and Blue Islands said that was not enough.

'Bristol is an important city and one of the largest business centres in the south. This fits naturally within our philosophy to serve the business centres of Europe,' said a spokesman. 'We also believe that the tourist and leisure market can be stimulated through this gateway to the west and south-west of England.

'Blue Islands will be providing a twice-daily morning and evening service. This will improve opportunities for islanders and inbound UK travellers, benefiting the Guernsey leisure and business sectors.'

The airline said Aurigny had cut back its operations on the route and there was a real opportunity for the island to benefit from a second operator.