Impact of subsidies not factored into fare comparison, says Aurigny
Aurigny has welcomed praise for its connectivity, but raised questions about why other Crown Dependencies enjoy cheaper air services.
Economic Development released a summary of an independent report by Frontier Economics into the connectivity, reliability and affordability of local air services on Friday.
The report stated that Guernsey flights on the most popular routes appeared to cost 15% to 30% more than those in Jersey and the Isle of Man, which was attributed to smaller planes, a lack of competition and smaller demand.
But it was found that the island did enjoy decent connectivity with the UK in comparison to the other islands.
‘The summary report indicates that Guernsey performs comparably to, or better than, Jersey and the Isle of Man regarding connectivity, something Aurigny is pleased to have played its part in achieving,’ an Aurigny spokesman said.
‘It is worth noting that subsidies play a role in other markets that enable lower airfares on selected routes, but this was not factored into the comparative analysis.
‘The report does find that fares offered by Aurigny are lower on more comparable regional routes, such as Exeter, where such subsidies do not play a central role.’
‘As a smaller market, with a greater propensity to travel, Guernsey also has differing scalability opportunities and schedule requirements compared to other Crown Dependencies.’
Jersey has a population of more than 100,000, while the Isle of Man has 84,000. Guernsey has about 64,000 residents.
At the end of last year the Isle of Man government confirmed it was looking at more commercial incentives for airlines to boost traveller numbers, while Jersey has recently raised the prospect of spending £2m. supporting more international routes.
Looking at 2023, Isle of Man airport saw 649,342 passenger movements, compared to 697,021 at Guernsey Airport.
Jersey had more than 1.4m. air movements.
Aurigny, which operates the vast majority of Guernsey air routes, has carried out its own post-flight surveys with customers for the last five years, and said that had helped the airline know where to focus its efforts.
‘Of more than 20,000 respondents during this period, nine out of 10 indicated that punctuality, reliability, and quality of service are the key areas they wish Aurigny to concentrate on as a priority, areas we are firmly focused on improving in the year ahead,’ the spokesman said.
‘Everyone at Aurigny remains committed to serving the needs of Guernsey’s community, contributing to the island’s economic and social wellbeing, and delivering the best possible value for money.’
The report was ordered in the wake of serious technical and weather disruption in the first half of last year, and concerns have been raised about the impact the lack of reliable air links is having on the local economy.
