The provision of ‘an aerodrome’ is one of the duties imposed on Guernsey under the financial and constitutional agreement between the two islands dating back to 1948. Under that agreement most taxes paid in Alderney go into the Guernsey exchequer in return for the provision of a range of key services.
The airport is one such service and it is operated by Guernsey’s States Trading Supervisory Board.
For many years the airport did provide refuelling facilities for aircraft but this ceased a few years ago.
Many in Alderney feel the lack of this service is hampering the island’s economy.
But, in reply to parliamentary questions from Alex Snowden, an Alderney representative in the States of Guernsey, STSB says not only has it no duty to provide refuelling facilities but it has never actually done so itself.
‘The provision of aviation fuel at Alderney Airport was under a concession arrangement with a commercial third party rather than a government service.
‘That ceased because the operator considered the service was no longer economically viable.
‘This was due to the low volume of sales and requirement for investment to upgrade supply facilities and could only continue if significant financial support was made available.
‘Informal discussions have taken place at a political and officer level over an extended period, however, in October 2025 the Alderney Policy and Finance Committee advised the STSB that provision had been made in the States of Alderney budget to restore provision of both AvGas and Jet A1 fuel at Alderney Airport.’
Meanwhile Alderney’s Policy and Finance Committee has confirmed that it is actively pursuing the project to restore refuelling facilities at the airport.
It has just launched a ‘Request for Proposals’, seeking interest from organisations who may wish to reinstate the service.
‘The process seeks proposals for the provision of both Jet A1 fuel and Avgas, supporting the needs of scheduled commercial air services, emergency and rotary operations, and the wider general aviation community.’
P&F chairwoman Jeannie Cameron says that if they can attract a new operator it will greatly benefit the island.
‘Re-establishing fuel services would support scheduled air services operating under the Public Service Obligation (PSO), improve resilience, and provide a valuable facility for visiting and locally based aircraft.
‘The States is seeking turnkey solutions covering the full fuel supply chain, from fuel delivery and storage through to aircraft refuelling, customer management and payment systems.
‘The tender has been deliberately structured to allow flexibility and innovation from potential providers and does not prescribe a specific methodology or technical solution.
‘Proposals may include a range of approaches, including fixed or portable storage and dispensing systems.’ Any organisation interested in putting in a bid has until noon on 7 July to submit their proposals.’
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