Guernsey Press

More Manx flights, business tunnel with Jersey to open

AURIGNY has added more air bridge flights to the Isle of Man, while Blue Islands is resuming inter-island services as part of the business tunnel scheme.

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Blue Islands has announced a once-a-week return flight to Jersey under the States’ business tunnel scheme, but will add more if there is demand. (Picture by David Ferguson, 28522006)

Demand from the Isle of Man has resulted in an additional four return flights being added to the Aurigny schedule.

They are on 21, 24, 28 and 31 August.

Chief executive Mark Darby was on the inaugural Isle of Man flight last week and, along with enjoying a brief break, he met with the media and government officials in the Isle of Man to discuss the island link.

‘It was clear talking to people on the Isle of Man that there was yet more demand for flights and some of those that had wanted to travel had not been able to book flights before they became full,’ he said.

‘Because of this we have decided to put on four further return flights over the last weekends in August to try to enable all those who wish to travel to do so.’

‘My own experience of the air bridge was extremely positive,’ he said.

‘I know Manx visitors will enjoy the golden beaches in Guernsey, slightly warmer climate, and picturesque town.

‘After my visit, I can confirm that visitors to the Isle of Man can enjoy great food, spectacular scenery, train journeys and some very good ice cream and, of course, an extremely warm welcome is extended in both islands.’

Blue Islands has announced the restart of its inter-island services to support businesses needing to travel between the islands.

Initially there will be day return operated on Thursdays from 6 August for business travel, with additional flights being added as demand requires.

Travellers using the business tunnel will need to notify the States at least seven days prior to travel, using the dedicated form.

Commenting on the limited resumption of inter-island flights, Blue Islands CEO Rob Veron said: ‘We are delighted to be back in the skies connecting Jersey and Guernsey.

‘This initial programme is clearly just a small step back to a regular schedule.

‘However, we are very happy to support the Guernsey business tunnel initiative and the consequent economic benefits it should bring to both economies and we stand ready to resume serving our regular inter-island operations from September.

‘We also welcome the new arrival protocols established by the Government of Jersey earlier this month – it is making a big difference in safely reopening the visitor economy.’

Economic Development president Deputy Charles Parkinson also commented.

‘The committee is pleased to see Blue Islands take the opportunity afforded by the States to operate air tunnels between the islands, enabling travel subject of course to the appropriate controls being in place,’ he said.

‘The launch of this new service enables our local businesses to maintain their business relationships in Jersey.’